Snacks & Party Foods

Cheddar Sausage Balls

Sausage balls are an easy savory bite for holidays, brunches, game days, family gatherings and snack tables. Breakfast sausage, baking mix and sharp cheddar are mixed by hand, rolled small and baked until browned.

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Golden baked cheddar sausage balls on a serving platter

Prep time

15 min

Cook time

20 min

Total time

35 min

Servings

8 · About 24 sausage balls

Ingredients

  • 1 pound breakfast sausage
  • 2 cups baking mix such as Bisquick
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2–4 tablespoons milk, only if needed to help the mixture come together

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 375°F.

  2. 2

    Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  3. 3

    Combine sausage, baking mix and shredded cheddar in a large bowl.

  4. 4

    Mix thoroughly with clean hands until evenly combined.

  5. 5

    If the mixture seems unusually dry or crumbly, add milk one tablespoon at a time.

  6. 6

    Roll into approximately 1-inch balls and arrange on the baking sheet.

  7. 7

    Bake for about 18–22 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.

  8. 8

    Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Heritage Kitchen Tips

  • Freshly shredded cheese melts especially well.
  • Do not make the balls too large or the centers may take longer to cook.
  • Assemble them ahead and refrigerate before baking.

Storage and reheating

Refrigerate baked sausage balls up to 4 days. They freeze well before or after baking — freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore the exterior texture.

Safety note

Sausage must be cooked through. Bake until no pink remains in the center and the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Wash hands and surfaces after handling raw sausage.

Helpful kitchen tool

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How Much Food Do I Need for 20 People?

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Frequently asked questions