These Sausage Balls Without Bisquick are a modern twist on a beloved classic. Packed with savory sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of simple pantry ingredients, this recipe delivers all the flavor and texture you love without relying on pre-made baking mixes. The result is a batch of golden, tender, and irresistibly cheesy bites that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or need an easy appetizer, these sausage balls are sure to be a hit. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also incredibly versatile. You can customize the seasonings, use your favorite type of sausage, or experiment with different cheeses to make the recipe your own. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead and freeze, so you’ll always have a batch ready for guests or last-minute cravings.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup milk
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage and shredded cheddar cheese until well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the sausage mixture, mixing thoroughly. Add the milk a little at a time until the dough comes together and can be shaped into balls.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 95 kcal per ball (approx.) | Servings: 30 balls
The Story Behind Sausage Balls Without Bisquick
Sausage balls are a classic crowd-pleaser often served as appetizers at parties, holiday gatherings, or as snackable treats. Traditionally, these savory bites rely on Bisquick, a pre-made baking mix, to bring the dough together. However, for those who prefer to make their food from scratch or avoid processed ingredients, this homemade version eliminates Bisquick while keeping the taste and texture everyone loves.
This recipe captures the essence of the original dish with its rich, cheesy flavor, but with the added benefit of knowing exactly what goes into your food. It’s perfect for anyone who appreciates wholesome, homemade meals without compromising on convenience.
Why This Recipe Is the Best
- Customizable Ingredients: By using all-purpose flour, you can control the quality and type of flour, making it easy to adapt this recipe to suit gluten-free or whole-grain diets. Similarly, you can choose the type of sausage—mild, spicy, or even plant-based alternatives.
- No Preservatives: Unlike store-bought baking mixes, this recipe is free from additives and preservatives, making it a healthier choice for you and your family.
- Better Texture: The combination of freshly mixed dry ingredients creates a dough that holds together beautifully, resulting in sausage balls that are tender on the inside and golden-crispy on the outside.
- Flavor Depth: The addition of garlic powder, onion powder, and sharp cheddar cheese ensures these bites are packed with flavor, making them more satisfying than the average sausage ball.
- Versatility: These sausage balls are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as breakfast treats, appetizers, party snacks, or even pair them with a dipping sauce like honey mustard or marinara for a delicious finger food.
Health Benefits of Making from Scratch
- Control Over Sodium Levels: Many pre-packaged baking mixes and processed sausages contain high sodium levels. By choosing low-sodium or homemade sausage, you can create a healthier version.
- Cleaner Eating: Homemade sausage balls allow you to avoid unnecessary fillers and artificial ingredients, making it a better choice for those who value clean eating.
- Rich in Protein: With sausage and cheese as primary ingredients, these sausage balls are a great source of protein, which can help keep you fuller for longer.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the sausage mixture with the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense sausage balls.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Grating your own cheese from a block ensures better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to add your own spices, such as paprika, cayenne, or Italian seasoning, to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Preheat the Oven: Ensuring your oven is fully preheated before baking guarantees even cooking and a golden crust.
- Make Them Ahead: These sausage balls can be prepped in advance and frozen either before or after baking, making them a convenient option for busy schedules.
Serving Suggestions
Sausage balls are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides or dips:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, spicy mustard, marinara sauce, or a creamy cheese dip.
- Breakfast Spread: Include these in a breakfast platter with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and toast.
- Game Day Snack: Pair with other appetizers like deviled eggs, sliders, or veggie platters for a winning combination.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Arrange uncooked or cooked sausage balls on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the texture may be softer.
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking mix.
- Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for unique flavors.
- Meat Options: Replace pork sausage with turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian sausage for a lighter or meat-free option.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives to enhance the flavor and visual appeal.
Why You Should Try This Recipe Today
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, need a snack to impress at a potluck, or simply want to enjoy a bite-sized indulgence, these sausage balls without Bisquick are a must-try. They’re easy to prepare, universally loved, and make your kitchen smell amazing while baking. Plus, they’re budget-friendly, requiring only a handful of ingredients that you likely already have on hand.
Conclusion
Sausage balls originated in the Southern United States as a staple at holiday gatherings. They embody the comfort and simplicity of Southern cuisine while proving that a few basic ingredients can create something truly special. By tweaking the recipe to exclude Bisquick, you’re not only paying homage to tradition but elevating it with a modern twist.
