Favorite Sausage Balls (Better Than Original)

Our favorite sausage balls recipe takes the classic 3 ingredients up a notch with two kinds of cheese and additional seasoning. Start with Bisquick pancake mix for an easy and delicious party appetizer or brunch finger food to feed a crowd.

party scene with glasses and sausage ball appetizers stacked on plate, with dipping sauce

One of my favorite party appetizers is sausage balls. They were very popular in the 70’s and 80’s, and I grew up eating them at holiday parties and bridal & baby showers.

My go-to recipe is a little different from the original one I grew up on. It has a few more ingredients like Parmesan cheese, and dry parsley and rosemary, which produces a more flavorful bite. 

Although food trends come and go, these beloved sausage balls are always a crowd pleasing favorite. They may seem old fashioned by todays standards, but they still go over well at parties!

Why You’ll Love It

These small bites are so versatile you’ll want to add them to all your party menus. They’re practically the perfect party food!

RELATED: If you like this recipe, try these Italian sausage appetizers in pie pastry cups.

plate of appetizer sausage balls with cocktail glasses, on gray table

Ingredients

These are so simple to make but a little time is necessary to roll out all the balls. Here’s the ingredients list and full instructions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom.

  • Pork sausage. Use regular flavor sausage so it doesn’t interfere with the other flavors. You can substitute with turkey sausage in this recipe, but because turkey is typically leaner, you will need to add about a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture in order to get the moisture you need to hold the balls together.
  • Bisquick mix. Using a prepared mix makes this so easy. I use Bisquick but you can use your favorite brand. Pancake mix can be sweeter than the original baking mix so check the label to see where sugar lies in the ingredient list.
  • Cheddar cheese. You’ll need to shred a block of cheddar cheese; do NOT use pre-shredded because it has a coating on it that will interfere with the binding and melting process. Also, the sharper the cheese the better in my opinion.
  • Parmesan cheese. Adding grated parmesan cheese gives this recipe extra depth and takes it to the next level. Grate it yourself for best flavor and texture.
  • Dried herbs. Use your spice rack and add some parsley and rosemary for more complexity in flavor.

How to Make Them

NOTE: You’ll need to cook these in 2 or 3 batches since the recipe makes so many.

  1. Mix all the ingredients together in a large mixing bowl. Your hands are the best tools for this!
  2. Use a mini scoop to portion out bite size sausage balls, about 2 tablespoons, onto a baking sheet and bake until cooked through.
sausage balls stacked on silver plate, straight on view

PARTY TIP: Since you can make these ahead, they’re an easy and convenient option for brunch entertaining and potluck parties.

Make Ahead

This recipe can be made ahead to save time on the day of the event. Just mix and roll the sausage balls and place them in an airtight container. You can use wax paper to separate layers, and refrigerate overnight. Cook them just before the party and serve them warm from the oven or at room temperature.

Alternatively, you can cook them completely through and store in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Heat them through for a few minutes before serving.

How to Freeze Sausage Balls

You can store the cooked sausage cheese balls in the freezer for about 4 to 6 months. Make sure they’re cool, and wrap them tightly with saran wrap. Add an outer layer of aluminum foil to make sure they’re air tight.

Let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Heat them in a 350 degree oven for about 5 minutes to refresh them.  

You can also take them straight from frozen and heat them in the oven. Make sure to take them out of the plastic wrap, but keep them wrapped in foil so they don’t over cook. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes at 350 degrees.

round plate full of sausage balls, on gray table

What to Serve With Them

I love to eat these as is but a little dipping sauce can be a nice addition. Serve them with honey mustard, sweet bbq sauce, or even ranch dip.

More Party Appetizer Recipes

You just can’t go wrong with these sausage balls. Add these other tried and true appetizers that work well for happy hour or brunch.

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sausage cheese balls stacked on plate

Favorite Sausage Balls Party Recipe

Yield: 78 sausage balls
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Sausage cheese balls made with pork sausage, pancake mix, and two kinds of cheese are perfect for a party appetizer or brunch entertaining. Make ahead and serve warm or at room temperature.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pork sausage, regular flavor
  • 3 cups Bisquick or other baking mix
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (16 ounces)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Mix together all ingredients {yes, the sausage is uncooked}. Hands work best for this.
  3. Shape into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet that’s been lightly sprayed with nonstick spray.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
  5. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Did you make this recipe?

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