If you are craving a snack that’s bursting with savory goodness and perfectly crisp on the outside, look no further than the Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe. These little bites of heaven combine the rich flavors of ground sausage, sharp cheddar, and nutty Parmesan, all baked to golden perfection. They’re easy to make, irresistibly cheesy, and great for gatherings, snack times, or whenever you want a comforting, crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is all it takes to create a delicious batch of sausage balls that deliver big on both flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role: the sausage adds juicy savory notes, the biscuit mix ensures a tender bite, and the cheeses bring that melty, irresistible richness.
- 1 lb ground sausage: Use a mild or spicy variety based on your taste preference; this is the star protein delivering savory depth.
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix: Helps bind everything together and creates a soft, fluffy base for the balls.
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, cheddar brings bold cheesy flavor and a beautiful golden color.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick that elevates the overall taste complexity.
- 1/2 cup milk: Just enough to moisten the mix so the sausage balls hold shape but stay tender.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: This herb gives a subtle fragrant earthiness to balance the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a delicate herbal note for extra flavor dimension.
How to Make Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Start by setting your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Preheating is important because it ensures the sausage balls bake evenly and develop that perfect golden-brown crust.
Step 2: Mix all 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 sturdy spoon to mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture holds together.
Step 3: Shape into balls
Take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a 1-inch ball using your palms. Place each ball on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them out so they cook evenly and develop a lovely crust on all sides.
Step 4: Bake until golden brown
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the goal is to achieve a crispy golden exterior while ensuring the sausage is perfectly cooked inside.
Step 5: Serve warm and enjoy
Once out of the oven, let the sausage balls rest for a few minutes before serving. This Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe truly shines best when enjoyed warm, so grab them fresh and savor every cheesy bite.
How to Serve Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top can brighten the presentation and add a fresh flavor contrast to the rich sausage balls. A light drizzle of honey mustard or spicy aioli also pairs beautifully for dipping.
Side Dishes
These sausage balls make a fantastic appetizer or party snack but also work beautifully alongside simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of tangy tomato soup. The savory bite balances wonderfully with fresh or acidic accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe on a charcuterie board alongside pickles, olives, and assorted cheeses. Alternatively, skewer them with toothpicks for easy party finger food that guests will love to grab and go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your sausage balls, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to four days, making them a convenient snack to have on hand.
Freezing
This Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe freezes wonderfully. Arrange the unbaked balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, just thaw overnight in the fridge and follow the baking steps as usual.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a 350-degree oven for 10-12 minutes to crisp them back up. Alternatively, heat gently in the microwave, though the oven method helps maintain that perfect golden crust and melty cheese texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Parmesan offer a classic flavor combo, you can experiment with mozzarella for stretchiness or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just keep the proportions similar to maintain the right texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional biscuit baking mix contains gluten, so this recipe is not gluten-free as written. However, you can try substituting a gluten-free biscuit mix to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Can I make these vegetarian?
To make vegetarian sausage balls, substitute the ground sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative. Make sure the substitute has a good texture and flavor for the best results.
What’s the best way to shape the balls?
The easiest method is using your hands to roll the mixture into uniform 1-inch balls. If the mixture feels sticky, lightly dampen your palms with water to prevent sticking.
How long do these sausage balls last once cooked?
Stored properly, cooked sausage balls will last about four days in the fridge. For longer storage, freezing is your best option and can keep them tasty for several months.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about a batch of Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe fresh from the oven. They deliver a perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and savory all in one bite. I hope you give this recipe a try soon—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that tastes like a warm hug on a plate!
Print
Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These golden-brown sausage balls are a savory appetizer packed with flavorful ground sausage, sharp cheddar, and nutty Parmesan cheese. Infused with fragrant rosemary and thyme, they bake to perfection in the oven, resulting in a crispy exterior with a tender, cheesy interior. Perfect for parties, brunch, or as a tasty snack.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 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 ideal temperature for baking the sausage balls evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, biscuit baking mix, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, dried rosemary, and dried thyme. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated into a uniform mixture.
- Shape Balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls. Place each ball onto a baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow for proper heat circulation during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Bake until the sausage balls are golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Serve: Remove the sausage balls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or snack, perfect for gatherings or brunch.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- These sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for best texture.
- Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Use gluten-free biscuit mix to make this recipe gluten-free.
