How do I keep sausage balls from drying out?

To avoid dry sausage balls, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties (which often contain anti-caking agents that affect moisture). Also, be sure not to overbake — check for doneness around the 20-minute mark. If you're making them ahead, store uncooked sausage balls tightly wrapped in the fridge to prevent moisture loss.

Can I freeze sausage balls before or after baking?

Absolutely. You can freeze sausage balls before baking by placing them on a tray until solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake straight from frozen — just add 5 extra minutes to the baking time. If freezing after baking , allow them to cool completely, then store in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.

What’s the best cheese to use in sausage balls?

Cheddar is the classic choice because of its bold, sharp flavor and meltability. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pepper Jack (for heat), mozzarella (for stretch), or even smoked Gouda (for depth). Mixing two cheeses is another way to add flavor complexity to your sausage balls.

Sausage Balls – Easy Cheesy Favorite for Every Occasion

Name: Sausage Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 pound breakfast sausage (uncooked): adds rich, savory flavor and moisture; 2 cups biscuit baking mix (like Bisquick): binds the mixture and gives a tender texture; 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese: provides sharp, melty cheesiness

Description

These classic sausage balls combine savory pork sausage, sharp Cheddar cheese, and fluffy biscuit mix into irresistible bite-sized snacks. Perfect for breakfast, parties, or game-day appetizers, they’re quick to make, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound breakfast sausage (uncooked): adds rich, savory flavor and moisture
2 cups biscuit baking mix (like Bisquick): binds the mixture and gives a tender texture
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese: provides sharp, melty cheesiness

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine sausage, biscuit mix, and shredded Cheddar. Mix thoroughly with your hands until a uniform dough forms.
Roll the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls, about the size of a walnut.
Arrange the sausage balls evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and sausage is fully cooked.
Cool slightly before serving, or transfer to a wire rack to prevent sogginess.

Notes

Use room temperature sausage for easier mixing.
Freshly shredded cheese melts better and keeps the mixture moist.
Chill shaped balls in the fridge for 30 minutes if they feel too soft before baking.
To freeze, place uncooked balls on a tray until solid, then store in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5 minutes to the cook time.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Breakfast, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 sausage balls
Calories: 180
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg