Bisquick Sausage Balls are a classic snack made with just a few simple ingredients: savory sausage, fluffy Bisquick baking mix, and plenty of shredded cheese. They’re bite-sized, packed with flavor, and have a nice little crispy outside with a soft, cheesy center. These little balls are perfect for easy snacking or as a crowd-pleaser at any get-together.
I’ve always loved making these because they come together so quickly and don’t need any fancy skills—just mix, roll, and bake! One tip I like is to use a good sharp cheddar cheese for extra flavor, and sometimes I add a pinch of garlic powder or a little onion powder just to bump up the taste a bit. They’re the kind of thing everyone asks for seconds on, which I take as a good sign.
When I serve Bisquick Sausage Balls, I usually put them on a big platter with some dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch on the side. They’re great warm, fresh from the oven, but honestly, I’ve also enjoyed them at room temperature during parties. These tasty bites are a simple way to make people happy and bring everyone to the table with smiles.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bisquick Mix: This is the base that helps bind the sausage and cheese together while giving a nice fluffy texture. If you don’t have Bisquick, you can use any baking mix or even make your own with flour, baking powder, and salt.
Sausage: Ground breakfast sausage adds the main savory flavor. Mild or spicy works depending on your taste. For a leaner option, try ground turkey sausage or plant-based sausage.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great tangy kick and melts well. You can swap it for mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a bit of heat.
Milk: This is optional but handy if your mix feels too dry. It helps everything hold together without making the dough wet.
How Do You Get Perfectly Shaped Sausage Balls Without the Mess?
Forming the sausage balls evenly is key for cooking them well and making them look great:
- Chill the mixture for 10-15 minutes if it feels too sticky; this makes it easier to handle.
- Use a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon to keep the size uniform—around 1 inch works perfectly.
- Wet your hands slightly before rolling to prevent sticking and to get smooth, round balls.
Even spacing on the baking sheet helps them cook evenly and develop a nice golden crust all around. Turning them halfway through baking also gives an even, crispy finish. This simple technique makes serving easier and the sausage balls more enjoyable.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I find it helpful for combining all the ingredients easily.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – makes forming evenly sized sausage balls simple and quick.
- Baking sheet – provides a sturdy surface for baking; line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep the ingredients just right for the best results.
- Cooling rack (optional) – helps the sausage balls stay crispy on the outside after baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked crumbled bacon instead of sausage to add smoky flavor and crunch.
- Mix in chopped jalapeños or green chilis for a spicy kick.
- Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or paprika for extra flavor depth.
- Try using pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for a milder, melty cheese experience.
Bisquick Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, as preferred)
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup milk (optional, helps bind if needed)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp onion powder (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., chopped parsley or rosemary)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20–25 minutes to bake, making it a quick and easy snack option. You’ll spend just a few minutes mixing and shaping before popping them in the oven to bake perfectly golden and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare for Baking:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to keep the sausage balls from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, Bisquick baking mix, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until well blended. If the mixture feels too dry and crumbly, add the milk little by little until it holds together without being too wet.
3. Shape the Sausage Balls:
Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet so they bake evenly and develop a nice crust all around.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake the sausage balls for 20–25 minutes, turning them once halfway through to ensure they brown nicely on all sides. When they’re golden brown and cooked through, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if you like and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for Sausage Balls?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the sausage in the refrigerator before mixing. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the mixture hold together better.
Can I Make Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture, shape the balls, and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake them in advance and reheat in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes before serving.
How Should I Store Leftover Sausage Balls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, keeping them moist and tasty.
What Can I Serve with Bisquick Sausage Balls?
They’re great on their own or paired with dips like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy ketchup. For a fuller meal, serve with scrambled eggs or a fresh green salad on the side.