Original Sausage Balls

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Recipes

These Original Sausage Balls are a savory delight, perfect as an appetizer or a party snack. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they will be a hit at any gathering.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-05T16:10:20.838Z

The Original Sausage Balls recipe has been a family favorite for decades. Perfect for holiday gatherings, game days, or any occasion where finger foods are a must.

Why You'll Love These Sausage Balls

  • Savory and satisfying with a hint of spice
  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days
  • Versatile: great for parties or as a simple snack

A Perfect Party Snack

These Original Sausage Balls are an ideal choice for any gathering, whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive celebration. Their bite-sized form makes them easy to serve and enjoy, while the savory flavor profile ensures that they will appeal to a wide range of palates. Guests will love the combination of juicy sausage and rich cheddar cheese, making them a standout dish on any appetizer table.

What sets these sausage balls apart is their versatility. You can serve them warm out of the oven, or let them cool and serve them at room temperature. They also pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, from tangy barbecue to zesty ranch. This makes them not only a tasty treat but also a flexible option that can be adapted to fit your event’s theme.

Easy to Make Anytime

One of the best things about these sausage balls is how simple they are to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time. This makes them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner option or for unexpected guests. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, ready to bake when you need them.

This recipe is also a great way to involve the whole family in the cooking process. Kids will enjoy rolling the mixture into balls, and it’s a fun way to teach them about measuring ingredients and following recipes. Cooking together can create wonderful family memories, and you'll be rewarded with a delicious snack to enjoy afterward.

Flavor Variations

While the original recipe is undeniably delicious, feel free to experiment with different flavors to suit your taste. You can add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick or incorporate herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness. If you want a cheesy twist, consider mixing in some cream cheese or using different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.

Additionally, you can customize the spices to add your own personal touch. A dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the heat, while smoked paprika can introduce a depth of flavor that complements the sausage beautifully. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make these sausage balls your own!

Ingredients

Sausage Ball Ingredients

  • 1 pound of breakfast sausage
  • 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon of baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt

Mix all ingredients well before forming into balls.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, cheddar cheese, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Form Balls

Using your hands, form the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them on a baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy these savory sausage balls warm or at room temperature!

Storage Tips

To store any leftover sausage balls, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled sausage balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through. This makes them an excellent make-ahead snack for busy days or last-minute gatherings!

Serving Suggestions

These sausage balls are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a more substantial meal, pair them with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables. They also make a great addition to a breakfast spread alongside eggs and toast, offering a savory contrast to sweeter breakfast items.

For a fun twist, consider creating a sausage ball platter. Arrange them alongside an assortment of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli. This not only elevates the presentation but also allows guests to enjoy different flavor combinations, making your gathering even more enjoyable.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, feel free to use any type of ground sausage you prefer!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them and freeze before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I serve with sausage balls?

They pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.

Original Sausage Balls

These Original Sausage Balls are a savory delight, perfect as an appetizer or a party snack. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they will be a hit at any gathering.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Family Comfort Recipes

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 24 balls

What You'll Need

Sausage Ball Ingredients

  1. 1 pound of breakfast sausage
  2. 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
  3. 1 cup of all-purpose flour
  4. 1 tablespoon of baking powder
  5. 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
  6. 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
  7. 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  8. 1/4 teaspoon of salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, cheddar cheese, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Step 03

Using your hands, form the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them on a baking sheet.

Step 04

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 05

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g