If you’re looking to start your morning with a burst of savory flavor and comforting warmth, the Cheddar Sausage Balls for Breakfast Recipe is your new best friend. These golden, cheesy bites are packed with rich sausage and sharp cheddar goodness, delivering a satisfying blend of textures and aromas that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches, this recipe combines simple ingredients into a dish that feels both hearty and irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheddar Sausage Balls for Breakfast Recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward with everyday ingredients that each play a crucial role—whether it’s the savory pork sausage, the sharp punch of cheddar, or the fluffy texture added by the baking mix. Together, they create a balance of flavor and texture that’s truly comfort food at its best.
- 1 pound ground pork sausage: The star protein that brings juicy, seasoned richness to every bite.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, creamy flavor and melts beautifully throughout.
- 2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick): Provides structure with a tender crumb, making these balls perfectly fluffy.
- 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the mixture moist and helps bind everything wonderfully together.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle savory depth without overpowering the sausage’s flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a gentle aromatic kick that complements the cheddar and sausage perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of spice that wakes up your taste buds just right.
How to Make Cheddar Sausage Balls for Breakfast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your sausage balls bake evenly and come off the sheet easily without sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine All Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently mix together the ground pork sausage, shredded cheddar, baking mix, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. It’s important to mix just enough to combine—overworking the mixture can make the texture tough rather than tender.
Step 3: Shape the Sausage Balls
Once your mixture is uniform, use your hands or a small scoop to form bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place these evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little room for them to puff up while baking.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Delicious
Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. The smell at this stage is absolutely irresistible, filling your kitchen with warm, cheesy, sausage-scented delight.
Step 5: Enjoy While Warm
Serve these Cheddar Sausage Balls for Breakfast Recipe warm from the oven for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience. They’re perfect on their own or paired with your favorite morning beverage.
How to Serve Cheddar Sausage Balls for Breakfast Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor that balances the richness. For an extra creamy touch, serve with a small bowl of sour cream or a mild aioli on the side for dipping.
Side Dishes
Complement these sausage balls with crisp fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or a light green salad for a well-rounded breakfast. They also pair beautifully with roasted potatoes or simple sautéed greens to bring out a lovely contrast of textures and tastes.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond just a plate—arrange your Cheddar Sausage Balls for Breakfast Recipe on a rustic wooden board alongside colorful fresh veggies and dipping sauces for a casual brunch vibe. Alternatively, thread them onto skewers for a fun and appetizing grab-and-go breakfast option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They hold their flavor beautifully and are easy to reheat for a quick breakfast or snack.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked sausage balls by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your sausage balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or warm them in the microwave until hot and gooey. This revives their crispy edges and melty center perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage works well and offers a leaner option, though it might produce a slightly different texture and flavor that’s a bit lighter than traditional pork sausage.
What’s the best baking mix to use?
Bisquick is a popular choice as it’s readily available and easy to work with, but any all-purpose baking mix will do. Just make sure it contains leavening agents for that perfect fluffiness.
Can I make these sausage balls gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the baking mix with a gluten-free baking mix blend. Be sure to check that all your other ingredients are certified gluten-free to keep it safe for sensitive eaters.
How do I prevent the sausage balls from drying out?
Be careful not to overbake; once they turn golden brown, they’re ready. Also, mixing gently helps keep the texture tender, and the milk adds moisture to the mix.
Can I add other ingredients, like peppers or herbs?
Definitely! Finely chopped bell peppers, jalapeños, or fresh herbs like thyme or basil can enhance flavor nicely without overpowering the classic sausage and cheddar combination.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and satisfying about the Cheddar Sausage Balls for Breakfast Recipe, and once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become such a favorite. With its irresistible combination of cheese and sausage baked to golden perfection, it promises to brighten your mornings with every bite. Whether for a quick weekday breakfast or a cozy weekend brunch, this recipe is sure to put a smile on your face and warmth in your day.
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious Cheddar Sausage Balls make a perfect savory breakfast or snack. These golden-baked bites combine flavorful ground pork sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and a simple baking mix to create a hearty and satisfying dish. Easy to prepare and sure to please, they are baked to perfection with a crispy exterior and tender, cheesy interior.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork sausage
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, baking mix, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix gently until the ingredients are just combined, being careful not to over-mix which could make the sausage balls tough.
- Form sausage balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small, evenly sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a little apart to allow heat circulation.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the sausage balls for 20 to 25 minutes or until they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through in the center.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve the sausage balls warm as a delicious breakfast snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Use baking mix like Bisquick for best results or substitute with a homemade baking mix.
- Do not over-mix the ingredients to keep the texture light and tender.
- Serve sausage balls warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard or spicy ketchup.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
