Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are the perfect blend of flavors, combining the beloved Cheddar Bay Biscuits with savory sausage. These delicious bites are suitable for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to game day parties. Their unique taste and easy preparation make them a hit with everyone. Plus, you can prepare them in advance and freeze them unbaked for later enjoyment!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip these up in no time.
- Delicious Flavor – The combination of cheddar cheese and savory sausage creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Versatile Serving Options – Perfect as an appetizer, breakfast treat, or snack for any gathering.
- Make Ahead Convenience – You can freeze the unbaked balls for quick and easy entertaining whenever you need them.
- Minimal Mess – Using a stand mixer helps keep your hands clean while mixing the ingredients.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience easier, gather the following tools before getting started. Having everything on hand will streamline your process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Electric stand mixer with a dough hook
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric stand mixer with a dough hook – This tool ensures all ingredients are mixed evenly without making a mess. It saves time and effort compared to mixing by hand.
- Parchment paper – Lining your baking sheet with parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
For the Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- 1 (11.36-oz) package Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 lb sausage (uncooked)
How to Make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400ºF. This ensures that your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls bake evenly.
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Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with a dough hook:
1. Combine the biscuit mix, seasoning packet, sausage, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated into the sausage.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- If desired, you can freeze them at this stage for future use.
Step 4: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy your delicious Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls hot or at room temperature!
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy breakfast, these savory bites can elevate any meal. Here are some serving ideas to make the most of your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls.
With Dips
- Honey Mustard – A sweet and tangy option that pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the sausage balls.
- Ranch Dressing – Creamy ranch adds a cool contrast to the warmth of the sausage balls.
- Sriracha Sauce – For those who enjoy a kick, sriracha brings heat and excitement to each bite.
As Part of a Breakfast Spread
- Scrambled Eggs – Serve alongside fluffy scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
- Fresh Fruit – A side of sliced fruit adds freshness and balances the richness of the sausage balls.
- Hash Browns – Crispy hash browns complement the textures and flavors beautifully.
At Parties
- Charcuterie Board – Include these sausage balls as part of a larger spread with cheeses, meats, and crackers for an impressive presentation.
- Buffet Style – Set them out on a buffet table as easy grab-and-go snacks for guests during gatherings.
How to Perfect Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
To ensure your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls turn out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Cold Ingredients – Starting with cold cream cheese and sausage helps maintain their shape while baking.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
- Shape Uniformly – Making all your balls the same size ensures even cooking throughout.
- Experiment with Cheese – Try adding different types of cheese for unique flavors, such as pepper jack or gouda.
- Adjust Seasoning – Feel free to add extra spices like garlic powder or paprika for added depth in flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Pairing side dishes with your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Crispy Salad – A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the sausage balls.
- Vegetable Platter – Serve raw veggies with dip for a crunchy contrast that’s also healthy.
- Potatoes au Gratin – Creamy potatoes add comfort and richness to your meal.
- Macaroni and Cheese – A classic favorite that complements the cheesy flavors in the sausage balls.
- Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread offers a delightful pairing with savory bites.
- Stuffed Peppers – These can be made ahead and bring an additional layer of flavor to your brunch or dinner table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
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Skipping the cream cheese: Cream cheese adds moisture and flavor. Don’t leave it out, or your sausage balls may turn out dry.
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Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. If you skip this step, your sausage balls might not bake properly.
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Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too much can make your sausage balls tough. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
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Neglecting parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Always line your baking sheet for perfect results.
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Ignoring freezing options: If you have leftovers or want to prep ahead, freeze unbaked sausage balls. This way, you’ll always have a delicious snack ready!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- Place unbaked sausage balls on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to an airtight container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on high for 30 seconds; check and continue in short bursts until warm.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, cook until heated through, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Are Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free biscuit mix. Check the package carefully to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Can Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze them unbaked or baked. Just follow proper storage guidelines for best results.
Can I make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer before baking.
What can I serve with Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls?
These delicious bites pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or marinara for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will love. They’re perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a game day snack or part of a festive spread. Feel free to customize them with different spices or add-ins to suit your taste!
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a delectable fusion of flavors that combines the beloved cheesy essence of Cheddar Bay Biscuits with the savory richness of sausage. Perfect for any occasion, these bite-sized snacks are a crowd-pleaser at holiday gatherings, game day parties, or casual brunches. With their irresistible flavor and simple preparation, you can whip up a batch in no time. Plus, they can be made ahead and frozen unbaked, allowing you to have delicious treats ready whenever the craving strikes!
Ingredients
- 1 (11.36-oz) package Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 lb sausage (uncooked)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400ºF.
- In an electric stand mixer bowl fitted with a dough hook, mix together the biscuit mix, seasoning packet, sausage, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You can freeze them at this point if desired.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy hot or at room temperature!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
