If you are craving a snack that’s savory, cheesy, and simply irresistible, look no further than this Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe. These little bites of comfort combine juicy sausage with the sharpness of cheddar and the nutty depth of Parmesan, all baked to a perfect golden-brown that makes them as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just want a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day, these sausage balls promise to satisfy every craving with ease and flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in delivering a mouthwatering result. From the savory sausage to the rich cheeses and aromatic herbs, every element enhances the flavor, texture, and inviting color of the finished dish.
- 1 lb ground sausage: The foundation of flavor with juicy, seasoned meat that keeps things moist and savory.
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix: Provides structure and tenderness, helping the balls hold their shape while staying soft inside.
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and gooey, cheddar adds richness and a wonderful melty texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty tang that balances the cheddar and sausage perfectly.
- 1/2 cup milk: Moistens the mixture just enough to bind everything together without making it soggy.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds an earthy, fragrant note that lifts the savory intensity.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Introduces a subtle herbal freshness for complexity and flavor depth.
How to Make Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Get your oven ready by preheating it to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This step ensures that your sausage balls will cook evenly and develop that perfect golden-brown crust you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, biscuit baking mix, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, milk, rosemary, and thyme. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture feels cohesive. This is where all the magic starts to come together.
Step 3: Shape the Sausage Balls
Pinch off pieces of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls, making sure they’re all roughly the same size for uniform cooking. Place these on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop your tray into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook—they’ll turn a gorgeous golden-brown when finished and develop a slightly crisp exterior while staying tender and juicy inside.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Savor
Once baked, let the sausage balls cool just slightly before serving warm. These are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, where the cheeses are melty, and the sausage is flavorful and juicy.
How to Serve Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan can brighten the plate and add a fresh visual pop. You can also offer a side of spicy mustard or a dollop of creamy ranch to elevate every bite with complementary flavors.
Side Dishes
These sausage balls pair wonderfully with crisp vegetable sticks or a fresh green salad to balance out their richness. For a heartier option, serve alongside a bowl of tangy coleslaw or roasted potatoes for a satisfying meal or appetizer spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe into fun party snacks by skewering them with toothpicks or serving them in mini muffin tins with dipping sauces. For brunch, nestle them among scrambled eggs or on a breakfast platter for a crowd-pleasing surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently to maintain their juicy interior and crispy exterior without drying out.
Freezing
These sausage balls freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making them a perfect make-ahead snack or quick appetizer option.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the sausage balls in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the oven method retains the crispiness on the outside much better.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan create a beautiful flavor combo, you can experiment with mozzarella for gooey meltiness or pepper jack for a spicy twist. Just make sure to keep a firm cheese as one component for texture.
Is it necessary to use biscuit baking mix?
The biscuit baking mix helps provide that tender, bread-like texture and binds the sausage and cheese together. If you can’t find it, all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder can work as a substitute.
Can these sausage balls be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the day before, shape the sausage balls, and store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This makes entertaining a breeze.
Are these sausage balls spicy?
The basic recipe is mild, but you can easily add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes if you love a bit of heat that complements the cheeses and sausage.
What type of sausage works best?
Pork sausage with mild seasoning works well, but you can also try spicy sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option. Just adjust the seasoning if your sausage is already heavily seasoned.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say that this Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite for any occasion. With its perfect blend of savory sausage, rich cheeses, and tender texture, it feels like a little bite of happiness every time. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again.
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Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings (about 24 sausage balls) 1x
Description
These golden-brown sausage balls are packed with savory flavors from ground sausage, sharp cheddar, and nutty Parmesan cheeses, enhanced with aromatic rosemary and thyme. Perfectly baked to a crispy exterior and tender interior, they make a delightful appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 lb ground sausage
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect baking temperature while you prepare the sausage mixture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ground sausage, biscuit baking mix, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, dried rosemary, and dried thyme. Mix until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Balls: Shape the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls, ensuring they are compact and uniform in size for even cooking. Place the formed sausage balls onto an ungreased baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
- Bake: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. The sausage balls should feel firm to the touch and no longer pink inside.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious sausage balls warm as a snack or appetizer.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- You can substitute milk with buttermilk for a tangier flavor and softer texture.
- Make sure to use a biscuit baking mix that contains baking powder to help the sausage balls rise slightly while baking.
- These sausage balls can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking; simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- For a low-carb option, substitute the biscuit baking mix with almond flour.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
