If you are on the hunt for a snack that’s bursting with flavor and has that perfect crispy, cheesy bite, look no further than this Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe. These delightful morsels are a savory celebration of sausage, sharp cheddar, and nutty Parmesan cheese all baked to a golden-brown perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy brunch, or just craving a comforting treat, these sausage balls are simple to make and guaranteed to be loved by everyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe lies in its straightforward but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect blend of hearty flavors, tender texture, and irresistible color that makes these sausage balls stand out.
- 1 lb ground sausage: The savory foundation that brings rich, meaty flavor and juiciness to every bite.
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix: Adds tender, fluffy body to balance the richness and helps bind everything together.
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and creamy, cheddar adds a gooey, melty goodness that’s absolutely addictive.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty kick that elevates the depth and complexity of the overall taste.
- 1/2 cup milk: Moisturizes the mixture so the sausage balls form perfectly soft centers under their golden crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Infuses a subtle, aromatic earthiness that complements the savory cheeses.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a light herbal brightness that balances the richness beautifully.
How to Make Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a hot enough environment to get the sausage balls crispy and golden on the outside while cooking through perfectly inside.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the ground sausage, biscuit baking mix, shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, milk, rosemary, and thyme. Stir everything until the ingredients are well incorporated and form a cohesive mixture that’s easy to shape.
Step 3: Shape the Sausage Balls
Pinch off portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. This size is just right for even cooking and makes for perfect little snacks or appetizers. Arrange your balls evenly spaced on a baking sheet to promote uniform browning.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake the sausage balls for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye out for a gorgeous golden-brown color on the outside—that crispy shell holds in all the cheesy, sausage goodness you’re about to enjoy.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once baked, these sausage balls are best served warm so the cheese is still melty and the sausage juicy. They’re irresistibly delightful straight from the oven, ready to be devoured by your guests or family!
How to Serve Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a bright pop of color and freshness that pairs beautifully with the savory sausage and cheeses.
Side Dishes
Serve these sausage balls alongside tangy marinara sauce for dipping or a crisp green salad to balance out the richness. They also go wonderfully with roasted veggies for a heartier meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Make these Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe the centerpiece of a party platter with an assortment of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo. Or thread them on skewers with cherry tomatoes and basil leaves for a fun finger-food twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge where they will stay fresh for up to three days. They’re just as tasty when reheated gently.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked sausage balls by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer bag. Baked sausage balls freeze well too; simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For a quick reheat, microwave for about 30 seconds or warm in a 350°F oven until heated through to preserve that crispy exterior.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan provide classic flavors, you can try mozzarella for more stretch or pepper jack for a little spice. Just adjust quantities to maintain the right balance.
Is it possible to make these sausage balls gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the biscuit baking mix with a gluten-free baking mix of your choice. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious!
Can I prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and bake them later?
Definitely. You can mix and form the sausage balls, then refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes for effortless entertaining.
What’s the best type of sausage to use?
Any ground sausage will work, but a mild or spicy Italian sausage adds a nice depth of flavor. For a leaner option, turkey sausage is a good choice.
How can I make the sausage balls extra crispy?
Baking them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet allows air circulation to crisp up all sides evenly, or give them a quick broil in the last couple minutes—but watch closely!
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about these Golden-brown Sausage Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe that makes them an irresistible crowd-pleaser no matter the occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch that’s bursting with cheesy goodness and savory sausage flavor every time. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a new favorite in your kitchen!
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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 or snack perfect for any occasion. Packed with flavorful ground sausage, sharp cheddar, and nutty Parmesan cheese, they are enhanced with aromatic dried rosemary and thyme, then baked to a crispy, cheesy perfection. Quick to prepare and easy to serve warm, they make a crowd-pleasing treat ideal for parties, brunches, or casual gatherings.
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 the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the sausage balls.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, biscuit baking mix, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, dried rosemary, and dried thyme. Stir everything well until the mixture is evenly blended.
- Shape the Sausage Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls, making sure they hold together firmly.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the shaped sausage balls on a baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow for cooking.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake the balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and have developed a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm, cheesy sausage balls as a delicious snack or appetizer.
Notes
- For best results, use a high-quality ground sausage with balanced seasoning.
- Shredded sharp cheddar provides great flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby.
- Make sure the balls are tightly packed so they hold together well during baking.
- These sausage balls can be made ahead and reheated in the oven before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
