Bisquick Sausage Balls are a super easy and delicious snack that’s perfect for sharing. They’re made with just a few simple ingredients: sausage, Bisquick baking mix, and plenty of cheese, which gives them a crispy outside and a soft, cheesy inside that everyone loves.
I love making these sausage balls when I have friends over because they’re quick to whip up and always disappear fast. My little tip is to use sharp cheddar cheese—it adds just the right amount of tanginess and richness to each bite. Plus, you can customize the spice level by choosing sweet or spicy sausage, depending on your mood.
These sausage balls are great served warm right out of the oven, but they’re also tasty at room temperature, making them perfect for parties or potlucks. Whenever I bring a batch, people keep asking for the recipe, and it’s a nice feeling to share something so simple yet so crowd-pleasing.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bisquick Baking Mix: This mix is the base that gives sausage balls their soft, tender texture. If you don’t have Bisquick, you can use any all-purpose baking mix or make your own by combining flour, baking powder, and a bit of salt.
Breakfast Sausage: Raw sausage adds flavor and moisture. You can use mild or spicy sausage depending on your preference. For a leaner option, try turkey or chicken sausage, but keep in mind the texture may be a bit different.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar packs a punch and melts well. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Colby Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a twist in flavor and creaminess.
Milk (Optional): Adding a little milk helps bind the mixture if it feels dry. If you want to avoid dairy, you can try a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, but add cautiously to keep the right consistency.
How Do You Make Sure Sausage Balls Stay Moist and Flavorful?
The key to moist, tasty sausage balls lies in mixing and baking:
- Mix ingredients well but don’t overwork the dough. Use your hands to combine everything gently until just mixed to keep the texture light.
- If your mixture feels crumbly, add a splash of milk gradually to help it bind without becoming too wet.
- Shape balls evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate—about 1 to 1½ inches works best.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Avoid overbaking to prevent dryness.
- Let them cool a few minutes after baking to help the sausages set and retain their juices.
With these tips, you’ll end up with sausage balls that are crispy on the outside, but soft and juicy inside every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I recommend a large one so all ingredients fit comfortably.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure ingredients accurately.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – helps shape evenly-sized balls for consistent baking.
- Baking sheet – a standard rimmed sheet works best for even heat, and you can line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Oven – preheated to 350°F (175°C) for perfect browning and thorough cooking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack to add a spicy kick or milder flavor.
- Swap sausage for cooked bacon bits or chopped ham for extra smoky or meaty flavors.
- Add chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or sage to give a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Mix in sautéed veggies like bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños to boost flavor and texture.
Bisquick Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (raw, uncooked)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk (optional, for moisture if needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 to 25 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’ll have delicious sausage balls ready in roughly 35 minutes, making it a quick and easy snack to enjoy any time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to keep the sausage balls from sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, put in the Bisquick baking mix, raw breakfast sausage, and shredded cheddar cheese. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well until it’s fully blended. If the mixture seems dry, slowly add up to ½ cup milk until it holds together nicely.
3. Shape the Sausage Balls:
Roll the mixture into small balls about 1 to 1½ inches across. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch between each so they cook evenly.
4. Bake Until Golden Brown:
Put the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The sausage balls are done when they are golden brown on the outside, the cheese is melted, and the sausage is fully cooked.
5. Cool and Serve:
Take the sausage balls out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, mustard, or spicy mayo for a tasty treat.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the sausage before mixing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This helps the sausage blend evenly with the other ingredients.
Can I Make Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage balls and store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly to prevent drying out. You can also freeze them and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Should I Store Leftover Sausage Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through to keep them crispy.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Yes! Sharp cheddar adds classic flavor, but feel free to swap in cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different taste or texture.
