These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are warm, cheesy, garlicky little bites that disappear fast. I mix them in one bowl with turkey sausage and extra cheddar, then bake until golden. Perfect for game day, holidays, or a cozy snack night.
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Equipment
- 1 Large baking sheet
- 1 Parchment Paper
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- 1 Whisk or spoon
- 1 Cookie scoop (optional)
- 1 Instant-read thermometer (optional)
- 1 Pastry Brush
Ingredients
Sausage Balls
- Turkey sausage raw and crumbly (mild or spicy)
- Cheddar Bay biscuit mix or biscuit baking mix + 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried parsley, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt
- Sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
- Milk or buttermilk 2 to 4 tablespoons as needed
- Optional boosters: sliced scallions crushed red pepper, or a dash of black pepper
Garlic-Parsley Butter
- Unsalted butter melted
- Garlic powder
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
Make the Sausage Balls
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, add the biscuit mix. If using plain baking mix, whisk in garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, smoked paprika, and a small pinch of salt.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar. Crumble in the turkey sausage and use clean hands or a sturdy spatula to combine until evenly distributed.
- Add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until the mixture holds when pressed. It should be tacky, not wet.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls. Place on the baking sheet with a little space between each.
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until golden and cooked through. An instant-read thermometer should read 165°F in the center.
Finish and Serve
- Stir melted butter with a pinch of garlic powder and chopped parsley. Brush over the hot sausage balls and serve warm with your favorite dip.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- One-bowl prep with simple pantry ingredients.
- Big cheddar and garlic flavor in every bite.
- Easy to make ahead and freeze for stress-free entertaining.
- Kid-approved, party-ready, and endlessly snackable.
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Ingredients & Substitutions
- Turkey sausage, raw and crumbly. Use mild or spicy. Chicken sausage works too.
- Cheddar Bay biscuit mix. Or swap with biscuit baking mix plus 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried parsley, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded for best melt and flavor.
- Milk or buttermilk to moisten the mixture, 2 to 4 tablespoons as needed.
- Unsalted butter, melted, mixed with garlic powder and parsley for brushing after baking.
- Optional boosters: sliced scallions, crushed red pepper, or a dash of black pepper.
All ingredients should be cool but not ice cold so the mixture blends evenly. If using pre-seasoned mixes, reduce added salt to taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Step 1: Prep the pan and oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the dry base
In a large bowl, add the biscuit mix. If using plain baking mix, whisk in garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, smoked paprika, and a small pinch of salt.
Step 3: Add cheese and sausage
Stir in the shredded cheddar. Crumble in the turkey sausage and use clean hands or a sturdy spatula to combine until the sausage is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bring it together
Add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until the mixture holds when pressed. It should be tacky, not wet. If it feels dry, add a little more milk.
Step 5: Shape
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls. Place on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until golden and the centers are cooked through. An instant-read thermometer should read 165°F in the middle.
Step 7: Finish and serve
Stir melted butter with a pinch of garlic powder and chopped parsley. Brush over the hot sausage balls. Serve warm with your favorite dip.
Tips for Success
- Freshly shred cheddar for the best melt and fewer greasy spots.
- Add milk gradually to avoid a sticky batter. The mixture should clump when squeezed.
- Chill the shaped balls for 10 minutes before baking if your kitchen is warm. They hold their shape better.
- Use a small cookie scoop for even portions and consistent baking.
Variations of Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- Spicy style: use spicy turkey sausage and add crushed red pepper.
- Herb lover: fold in extra parsley and a little dill or chives.
- Extra cheesy: mix in a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- Air fryer: cook at 360°F for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking once, until browned and cooked through.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- Classic ranch, honey mustard, or creamy garlic dip.
- Crisp veggie sticks like celery, carrots, and bell peppers.
- A fresh side salad or simple tomato soup for a cozy spread.
- Party board with pickles, olives, and sliced apples for contrast.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Fridge: cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container up to 4 days.
- Freeze: freeze on a sheet until solid, then bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen.
- Reheat: bake at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes, or air fry at 320°F for 5 to 7 minutes until hot.
Memories Made Around the Table
I started making these for a family game night, and now they show up at every celebration. There is something about warm, cheesy bites that brings everyone to the kitchen with smiles.
FAQs
Can I make the mixture ahead?
Yes. Mix and shape up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Why is my mixture crumbly?
It likely needs a touch more moisture. Add milk a teaspoon at a time until the dough holds together when pressed.
Can I use chicken sausage?
Absolutely. Chicken sausage works well. Choose mild or spicy and ensure it is raw and crumbly for easy mixing.
How do I keep them from getting greasy?
Use lean turkey sausage, shred your own cheese, and bake on parchment. A wire rack over the pan also helps fat drip away.
Final Thoughts
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a low-fuss, high-reward bite that feels special every time. Keep a batch in the freezer and you are always party-ready.