Description

There’s something undeniably satisfying about bite-sized snacks that are packed with flavor. These Snack Balls are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a fun appetizer for gatherings, these savory balls will disappear in no time. In fact, they’re so good that your family might find it hard to stop at just one—don’t be surprised if they finish the entire tray in one sitting!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground sausage (pork or turkey works well)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups Bisquick or other biscuit mix
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• ¼ cup milk
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage Mixture
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick mix, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Use your hands or a sturdy spatula to mix everything together until evenly combined.

Add Milk: Gradually add the milk to the mixture, stirring until the mixture becomes cohesive and slightly sticky. This will help bind the ingredients together and keep the balls moist as they bake.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Balls
Shape the Balls: Using your hands, roll the sausage mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each ball to ensure even cooking.

Bake: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) if you're using a meat thermometer.

Cool: Once the balls are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Serve: Transfer the warm sausage balls to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, if desired.

Dip Options: These snack balls are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of dips. Consider serving them with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra burst of flavor

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tips:
Make-Ahead Friendly: These sausage balls are perfect for making ahead. Simply prepare the balls as instructed, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them before baking. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to serve, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Customize the Flavor: Feel free to get creative with the seasonings. You can swap the cheddar for pepper jack cheese to add a bit of spice or experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more complex flavor.

Add Veggies: For an extra nutritional boost, you can finely chop spinach or bell peppers and mix them into the sausage mixture. This adds a pop of color and a little extra nutrition to each bite.

Gluten-Free Option: To make these snack balls gluten-free, simply substitute the Bisquick mix with a gluten-free biscuit or pancake mix.

Conclusion:
These Snack Balls are a true crowd-pleaser and a favorite in many households for good reason. With their cheesy, savory flavor and perfectly tender texture, they’re an addictive snack that’s hard to resist. The combination of sausage, cheddar, and spices creates a satisfying bite that can be enjoyed on its own or with your favorite dipping sauces. Whether you're serving them at a party, as an appetizer, or just as a quick snack, these balls are guaranteed to disappear quickly. Prepare to make these again and again, as they’re sure to become a family favorite!