Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a delightful fusion of two beloved dishes—Cheddar Bay Biscuits and savory sausage balls. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday party, game day, or a cozy breakfast. With their rich flavors and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself reaching for these delicious snacks again and again. Plus, they can be made in advance and frozen for later enjoyment!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, these sausage balls are ideal for last-minute gatherings.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of creamy cheese and savory sausage creates an irresistible taste.
- Versatile Snack: Perfect as an appetizer, breakfast item, or party food; they fit any occasion.
- Freezer Friendly: Make them ahead of time and freeze unbaked for future convenience.
- Easy Cleanup: Using a stand mixer minimizes mess when mixing the ingredients.
Tools and Preparation
To make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Electric stand mixer
- Dough hook attachment
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric stand mixer: Saves time and effort by mixing ingredients quickly and thoroughly.
- Dough hook attachment: Ensures that all components blend well without creating a mess on your countertop.
Ingredients
For the Biscuit Base
- 1 (11.36-oz) package Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix
For the Creamy Mixture
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese
For the Sausage Component
- 1 lb sausage (uncooked)
How to Make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC) to prepare for baking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with a dough hook:
1. Combine the biscuit mix and seasoning packet.
2. Add the uncooked sausage, softened cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Mix until everything is well incorporated into the sausage.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
- Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into 1-inch balls.
- Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- If desired, you can freeze them at this point for future use.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden Brown
Bake in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown on top. Enjoy your delicious Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls while they’re warm!
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls make a delightful appetizer for any occasion. Their cheesy, savory flavor pairs well with a variety of dips and sides, making them a versatile choice for gatherings.
With Dipping Sauces
- Honey Mustard: This sweet and tangy sauce complements the richness of the sausage balls.
- Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that adds a creamy element to each bite.
- BBQ Sauce: The smoky flavor enhances the savory taste of the sausage balls.
- Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick, hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile.
As Part of a Breakfast Spread
- Scrambled Eggs: Pairing these sausage balls with fluffy scrambled eggs creates a hearty breakfast.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the sausage balls.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns provide an additional texture that complements this dish well.
At Holiday Parties
- Cheese Platter: Include various cheeses alongside your sausage balls for a festive touch.
- Vegetable Tray: Fresh vegetables can provide a crunchy contrast to the soft sausage balls.
How to Perfect Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
To achieve optimal results with your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures better mixing and smoother texture when combining ingredients.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the balls tender and avoid toughness.
- Freeze for Later Use: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze unbaked balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a bag for easy storage.
- Uniform Size Matters: Shape your balls consistently for even cooking; aim for about 1-inch in diameter.
- Check Doneness with Color: Look for golden brown color; this indicates they are fully cooked and ready to enjoy.
Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls pair well with several side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some excellent options:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides freshness and balances out the richness of the sausage balls.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges add heartiness and complement the flavors beautifully.
- Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers are easy to prepare and offer a creamy contrast.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans create a comforting side dish that works well at gatherings.
- Cornbread Muffins: Soft, slightly sweet cornbread muffins add another layer of flavor alongside your savory bites.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These cheesy breadsticks make for an indulgent pairing with your sausage balls, perfect for dipping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.
- Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold sausage or cream cheese can make mixing difficult. Always let your cream cheese soften and ensure that the sausage is at room temperature.
- Not measuring correctly: Using too much or too little biscuit mix can affect the texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
- Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too long can lead to tough sausage balls. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Baking directly on a sheet may cause sticking or uneven cooking. Always line your baking sheet to ensure easy removal and cleanup.
- Ignoring cooking time: Not keeping an eye on your sausage balls can lead to overcooking. Check them at the 15-minute mark for perfect golden brown color.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- Freeze unbaked sausage balls for up to 2 months by placing them on a baking sheet first, then transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- You can also freeze baked sausage balls; just allow them to cool completely before sealing.
Reheating Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking regularly until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, turning frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls? Here are some common questions with answers.
Are Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls gluten free?
These sausage balls are not gluten-free because they contain Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix, which typically includes wheat flour.
Can sausage balls be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze both unbaked and baked sausage balls! They store well in airtight containers for future enjoyment.
Can you make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and either freeze them uncooked or refrigerate them for a few days prior to baking.
What’s the best temperature for baking sausage balls?
Bake Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls at 400ºF for optimal results, ensuring they turn golden brown and cook evenly.
What dips pair well with sausage balls?
Serve Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or your favorite barbecue sauce for a delightful combination of flavors.
Final Thoughts
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a delicious blend of two favorites and perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to customize with different cheeses or spices. Try making these delightful bites today; they’re sure to impress family and friends!
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 servings 1x
Description
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls combine the comforting flavors of Cheddar Bay Biscuits and savory sausage into one irresistible bite-sized snack. Perfect for any occasion—be it a festive gathering, game day, or a cozy brunch—these delicious morsels are quick to prepare and incredibly versatile. With just a handful of ingredients and easy preparation steps, you’ll have a delightful treat ready in no time. Plus, they can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the freezer for a convenient snack later on. Enjoy them warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces or as part of a hearty breakfast spread.
Ingredients
- 1 package (11.36 oz) Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 lb uncooked sausage
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC).
- In an electric stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the biscuit mix and seasoning packet.
- Add the sausage, softened cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese; mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball (30g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
