Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls

Name: Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 pound pork breakfast sausage (mild or hot); 1 1/2 cups prepared pimento cheese (such as Palmetto brand); 2 cups Bisquick or similar baking mix; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper (optional)

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There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about sausage balls for anyone who grew up attending Southern gatherings. My own first taste was at a holiday brunch hosted by a neighbor who always brought her famous sausage bites still warm from the oven. Years later, I tried reinventing that memory with this modern twist: Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls. What makes this recipe a keeper isn’t just its incredible flavor—it’s the ease, speed, and flexibility that makes it a perfect starter recipe for beginner cooks. This dish requires minimal ingredients, no complex techniques, and it’s almost impossible to mess up. Plus, it packs protein, a punch of cheesy flavor, and the charm of Southern comfort in every bite.

Why This Recipe is Special

This is not your average appetizer—it’s a mash-up of two Southern staples: creamy pimento cheese and savory sausage balls. By using pre-made pimento cheese, you cut down on prep time while still getting that bold cheddar flavor. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, meal prepping for busy mornings, or just learning your way around the kitchen, this easy sheet pan dinner-style snack brings crowd-pleasing results with very little effort. And if you’re exploring quick and healthy meals, you’ll love how customizable this recipe is.

Ingredients and Preparation

Sausage
This is the heart of the recipe. Use ground pork breakfast sausage for richness and flavor. Mild sausage gives a balanced taste, while hot sausage adds a kick. Turkey sausage can be used for a leaner version.

Pimento Cheese
This ingredient adds creaminess and sharp cheddar tang. Store-bought pimento cheese keeps things simple, and you can choose regular or spicy depending on your preference. It also replaces the need to shred cheese yourself.

Baking Mix (like Bisquick)
Acts as the binding agent, giving the sausage balls their structure while keeping them light. You can use gluten-free baking mix for a GF version or make your own with flour, baking powder, and shortening.

Optional Add-ins
Red pepper or black pepper boosts flavor and brings heat. Diced jalapeños or green onions can be mixed in for a zesty twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly spraying with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked sausage and pimento cheese using clean hands or a stand mixer. Mix until evenly incorporated but try not to overwork the mixture.

Step 3
Add the baking mix and any optional spices (like red pepper) to the bowl. Continue mixing until the dough comes together into a thick, sticky consistency. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon more baking mix.

Step 4
Scoop out small amounts (about 1 inch in size) and roll them into balls. Place them evenly spaced on your baking sheet. A cookie scoop makes this part faster and keeps sizes uniform.

Step 5
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the sausage is cooked through. You can check doneness by cutting one open—it should no longer be pink in the middle and should feel firm.

Beginner Tips and Notes

If the dough feels too sticky to roll, chill it for 10–15 minutes to firm it up. If your sausage balls flatten while baking, it may be because the mixture was too warm or the baking mix was under-measured.

To prep efficiently, lay out all ingredients before you start mixing, and line your baking tray while the oven preheats. If you don’t have parchment paper, foil with a bit of oil will work in a pinch.

You can also prep these sausage balls ahead of time and freeze them raw. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Serving Suggestions

These sausage balls shine all on their own, but they also pair well with dipping sauces like spicy mustard, ranch, or aioli. For a full brunch spread, serve them with fruit skewers, deviled eggs, or a light arugula salad.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, use the oven or toaster oven to maintain their crispy exterior. You can also freeze cooked sausage balls and reheat as needed for a quick protein-packed snack.

Conclusion

Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful blend of flavor, texture, and Southern charm—all in a bite-sized, beginner-friendly package. Whether you’re just starting your cooking journey or need a quick and healthy meal idea for your next party, this lemon herb chicken recipe’s savory cousin won’t disappoint. Give it a go, and let me know how it turned out. I’d love to hear if you added your own twist or served it at a special gathering!

FAQ About Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls

1. Can I make pimento cheese sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes! You can roll the sausage balls in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours or freeze them uncooked. When ready to bake, simply thaw (if frozen) and cook as directed.

2. What type of sausage works best for this recipe?

Ground pork breakfast sausage is the classic choice, but you can use hot sausage for more spice or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Choose a sausage with some fat for best flavor and moisture.

3. How do I keep sausage balls from drying out?

Using pimento cheese instead of shredded cheese helps keep the mixture moist. Also, be careful not to overbake them—remove from the oven once they’re golden and firm.

4. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the regular baking mix (like Bisquick) with a gluten-free version. Check that your pimento cheese and sausage are also certified gluten-free.

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