Sausage Balls
Sausage Balls Recipe - Hearty and Flavorful Dish for Any Occasion!
Introduction
Sausage balls are a popular appetizer or snack that are perfect for parties, game days, or just a delicious treat any time. These savory bites are made with a combination of spicy sausage, cheddar cheese, and bisquick, making them a flavorful and satisfying dish.
History
The origins of sausage balls are a bit unclear, but they are believed to have originated in the southern United States. This simple and tasty recipe has been passed down through generations and has become a staple at many gatherings and events.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (454 g) of bulk hot and spicy sausage
- 4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups of bisquick
- 0.5 cup of grated parmesan cheese
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Combine all the ingredients and shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls on a lightly greased cookie sheet with sides.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until they turn brown.
- Remove from the pan and serve warm.
Variations
- Try using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a different flavor.
- Add in some chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes for an extra kick of spice.
- Mix in some chopped herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use bulk sausage for this recipe, as it will mix better with the other ingredients.
- You can use mild or hot sausage, depending on your preference for spice.
- Be sure to fully cook the sausage balls until they are browned and cooked through.
- Serve the sausage balls warm for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Sausage balls can be served on their own as a snack or appetizer, or paired with a dipping sauce such as marinara or ranch dressing.
Cooking Techniques
Baking the sausage balls in the oven ensures that they cook evenly and develop a nice golden brown crust.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have bisquick on hand, you can substitute with a mixture of flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the sausage ball mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake them.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the sausage balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving, or arrange them in a decorative bowl for a more elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Sausage balls pair well with a variety of beverages, such as beer, wine, or cocktails. They also go well with other appetizers like stuffed mushrooms or meatballs.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of sausage balls contains approximately 220 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of sausage balls contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of sausage balls contains approximately 15 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of sausage balls contains approximately 12 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Sausage balls are a good source of calcium and iron due to the cheddar cheese and sausage.
Alergens
Sausage balls contain dairy (cheese) and gluten (bisquick), so they may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.
Summary
Sausage balls are a tasty and satisfying snack that are relatively high in fat and protein, making them a filling treat.
Summary
Sausage balls are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that are perfect for any occasion. With their savory flavor and satisfying texture, they are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for sausage balls many years ago. It was a chilly autumn day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the tattered pages, a faded piece of paper fell out onto the kitchen counter. Curious, I picked it up and saw that it was a handwritten recipe for sausage balls.
The recipe was simple, calling for just a few basic ingredients: sausage, cheese, and biscuit mix. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try. I gathered the ingredients together and set to work in my cozy kitchen, the aroma of sizzling sausage filling the air.
As I mixed the ingredients together, memories flooded back to me of all the wonderful meals I had shared with my family over the years. I thought of my own grandmother, who had taught me so much about cooking and had instilled in me a love for trying new recipes and techniques.
After shaping the mixture into small balls and baking them in the oven, I eagerly awaited the finished product. When I took the sausage balls out of the oven and took the first bite, I knew I had found a new favorite recipe. The combination of savory sausage, gooey cheese, and flaky biscuit mix was absolutely delicious.
Since that day, I have made these sausage balls countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday parties. Each time I make them, I think back to that chilly autumn day when I first discovered the recipe and feel a sense of gratitude for the culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different types of cheese, seasonings, and even adding in some diced jalapenos for a bit of heat. But no matter how I choose to customize the recipe, the simple pleasure of making and sharing these sausage balls remains the same.
I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who have all raved about how delicious and easy it is to make. And I have even passed it down to my own grandchildren, who now help me in the kitchen as we whip up a batch of sausage balls together.
As I look back on that fateful day when I stumbled upon the recipe for sausage balls, I am reminded of the joy and satisfaction that cooking can bring. It is a way to connect with loved ones, to create memories, and to carry on traditions that have been cherished for generations.
So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, searching for a new recipe to try, I encourage you to take a chance and experiment with something new. You never know what delicious discoveries you might stumble upon, just like I did with these savory, cheesy, and utterly irresistible sausage balls.
Categories
| American Recipes | Cheddar Recipes | Meat Appetizer Recipes | Parmesan Cheese Recipes | Sausage Recipes |