Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a deliciously savory and cheesy treat perfect for any occasion. Combining the flavor of sausage, cheddar cheese, and Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix, these bite-sized snacks are ideal for parties, family gatherings, or even as a simple weeknight meal. The best part? They’re quick to make and will have your guests coming back for more. With a crisp outer layer and a tender inside, these sausage balls are as tasty as they are easy to prepare.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they’re also super versatile. Whether you’re looking for a game day snack, an appetizer for a party, or a quick dinner, these sausage balls fit the bill. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. You can even prepare the mixture ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Ingredients for Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these flavorful Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls:
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, melty, and cheesy texture.
- Sausage Meat: The base of the recipe, offering savory flavor and juiciness.
- Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: Brings that signature flavor and light biscuit texture to the sausage balls.
- Pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and enhances the other flavors.
- Salt: A pinch to balance the flavors.
- Butter (melted): Provides a golden finish when brushed over the cooked sausage balls, adding richness.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking to make this recipe fit different dietary preferences or spice things up, here are a few swaps you can try:
- Pepper Jack Cheese: Swap out the cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
- Hot Sausage: Use hot sausage instead of regular sausage meat for an extra kick.
- Gluten-Free Biscuit Mix: Use a gluten-free biscuit mix to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Vegetarian Sausage: For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage meat with a plant-based sausage alternative.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Follow these easy steps to make perfect Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls every time:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, sausage meat, Red Lobster biscuit mix, pepper, and salt. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined.
- Form the sausage balls: Using a tablespoon-sized scoop, portion out the mixture and roll it into balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Brush with butter: While the sausage balls are baking, mix the melted butter with the seasoning packet from the biscuit mix in a small bowl. Once the sausage balls are done, brush the butter mixture over the top.
- Serve: Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. They’re perfect on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
To make sure your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls turn out perfectly, here are some helpful tips:
- Do not overmix the ingredients: When mixing the sausage ball mixture, be careful not to overwork it. This helps the balls stay tender and not tough.
- Check for doneness: To ensure the sausage balls are fully cooked, check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before removing them from the oven.
- Prep ahead of time: If you’re making these for a party, you can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time by scooping the mixture onto the baking sheet and refrigerating them until you’re ready to bake.
- Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Pairing Ideas and Variations for Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
While these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are delicious on their own, here are some ideas to elevate your meal:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve these sausage balls with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, remoulade, or sweet chili sauce.
- Side Dishes: Pair these sausage balls with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or scrambled eggs for a complete meal.
- Spicy Variation: Add a bit of heat by using hot sausage or substituting the cheddar cheese for spicy pepper jack.
Why Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Are the Ultimate Party Snack
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays, game days, or casual family gatherings. Their combination of savory sausage, melty cheddar cheese, and biscuit mix makes them irresistible. They’re easy to make, and their flavor only gets better with each bite.
Incorporating these sausage balls into your next event will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe. Whether served as an appetizer or a meal, these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Conclusion
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a versatile and easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer, a savory snack for game day, or a hearty addition to a family meal, these sausage balls hit the mark. With their rich, cheesy flavor and tender texture, they’re perfect for any occasion. And, with the option to make them ahead of time, these sausage balls are as convenient as they are delicious. So, gather your ingredients and start baking — your taste buds will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls?
Yes, you can freeze Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls for later use! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
How can I make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls spicier?
To add some heat to your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls, try using spicy sausage or swapping out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack cheese. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture for an extra kick.
Can I make these sausage balls without sausage meat?
If you’re looking for a non-pork option, you can substitute the sausage meat with ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage alternative. The flavor will be slightly different, but you’ll still get a delicious and satisfying result
More Relevant Recipes
- Sausage Balls Recipe – Easy & Cheesy Appetizer: If you love Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls, this easy sausage balls recipe is a must-try. Featuring sausage, cheese, and biscuit mix, these savory bites are perfect for any gathering or game day snack. The cheesy flavor and tender texture will remind you of your favorite party appetizers, with an added twist of convenience.
- Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread Recipe: This cheesy and savory soda bread is a fantastic side dish to pair with your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. With the rich flavor of cheddar and fragrant herbs, it brings a comforting, rustic element to your meal. It’s perfect for soaking up the flavors of savory dishes or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.
- Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe: For those who enjoy a bit of spice alongside their savory snacks, these buffalo chicken sliders are an excellent choice. They offer a flavorful, tangy kick, making them a great addition to your party spread. With their easy-to-eat size and bold flavor, they pair wonderfully with the milder, cheesy Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls.
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 30 sausage balls
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are savory, cheesy, bite-sized treats made with sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix. These easy-to-make sausage balls are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a game day snack, appetizer, or even a quick meal. With a crispy outer layer and tender inside, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 pound sausage meat
- 1 (11 oz) box Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, sausage meat, Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix, pepper, and salt.
- Mix with your hands until all ingredients are well combined.
- Scoop the mixture using a tablespoon-sized scoop and roll it into balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sausage balls reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Mix melted butter and the seasoning packet from the biscuit mix in a small bowl.
- Once the sausage balls are done, brush the butter mixture over the top of the sausage balls.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Do not overmix the ingredients to keep the sausage balls tender.
- Check for doneness by ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare ahead of time by refrigerating the formed balls before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sausage ball
- Calories: 121
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 264mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 27mg