Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls combine the savory flavors of sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and the irresistible seasoning reminiscent of Cheddar Bay biscuits. These bite-sized delights are perfect for parties, appetizers, or breakfast, and are easy to prepare with just a few ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups all-purpose baking mix (like Bisquick)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or Cheddar Bay biscuit seasoning mix)
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional for garnish)
• ¼ cup milk (optional, for moisture)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese for extra moisture and creaminess

For Serving:

• Ranch dressing or marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Mix the Sausage Balls

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and Old Bay seasoning.
2. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients together until fully combined. If the mixture is too dry, add ¼ cup of milk to moisten it slightly.

Step 3: Shape the Sausage Balls

1. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (about the size of a golf ball) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
2. You should get about 24-30 sausage balls, depending on the size.

Step 4: Bake the Sausage Balls

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
2. Remove from the oven and allow the sausage balls to cool slightly before serving.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the sausage balls with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, if desired.
2. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or spicy mustard.

Cooking Notes

• Baking Mix: You can use Bisquick or any similar all-purpose baking mix for this recipe. If you don’t have baking mix, you can make your own by combining flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, shred your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which may contain anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.

Variations

1. Spicy Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or 1 chopped jalapeño to the mixture for extra heat. You can also use spicy sausage to elevate the spice level.

2. Cream Cheese Cheddar Sausage Balls

Mix 2 tablespoons of cream cheese into the sausage mixture for added creaminess and moisture. This helps keep the sausage balls tender.

3. Herbed Sausage Balls

Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning or dried rosemary to the mixture for a flavorful herb twist that complements the cheddar cheese.

4. Cheddar Bay Breakfast Sausage Balls

Serve these sausage balls with a side of scrambled eggs, hash browns, and fruit for a complete breakfast or brunch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sausage balls in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them unbaked for up to 3 months and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave, oven, or air fryer before serving.

Q: Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! You can use pork, chicken, or turkey sausage, and choose between mild or spicy based on your preference. Just make sure it’s ground sausage for easy mixing.

Q: Can I use gluten-free baking mix?
Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free baking mix for the regular baking mix to make gluten-free sausage balls.

Q: Can I use pre-made biscuit mix?
Yes! You can use pre-made Cheddar Bay biscuit mix for added flavor, which usually contains seasoning similar to Old Bay.

These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a flavorful, bite-sized snack that’s perfect for any occasion. The savory combination of sausage, cheddar cheese, and Old Bay seasoning creates a delicious treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy this versatile and tasty dish!