Cheesy Sausage Balls

Featured in Party Starters Everyone Will Fight Over.

These cheesy sausage bites are made with Bisquick, uncooked sausage, and both cheddar and Parmesan. A sprinkle of cayenne and garlic powder amps up the flavor. Once baked, they’re golden, crisp on the outside, and soft inside. Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or apps, and they freeze beautifully for added convenience. Quick to make and packed with flavor in every bite.
A woman wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Updated on Thu, 03 Apr 2025 23:34:41 GMT
Golden-brown cheesy sausage bites, a perfect party or brunch snack. Pin it
Golden-brown cheesy sausage bites, a perfect party or brunch snack. | cookbybook.com

These down-home Bisquick Sausage Balls mix country comfort with party sophistication in each mouthful. The savory smell takes over your kitchen, bringing back thoughts of Christmas day breakfasts and family meet-ups, while their golden outside breaks away to show a soft, cheese-filled middle that'll have everyone grabbing for just one extra.

After making these for so many holiday get-togethers, I've figured out that the trick is handling the mix softly and using cheese you've grated yourself. My grandma always told me to let the sausage warm up before mixing, and that tip's worked every single time.

Complete Ingredients Breakdown

  • Pork Sausage: Go for good breakfast sausage with no extra sage
  • Sharp Cheddar: Grate it by hand - the bagged stuff won't melt right
  • Parmesan: Freshly grated brings extra flavor and saltiness
  • Bisquick: The name brand works better, but store versions will do
  • Garlic Powder: Gives a nice flavor kick without being too much
  • Whole Milk: Makes them wonderfully soft inside
Tasty Bisquick sausage balls that are simple to whip up for snacks or party treats. Pin it
Tasty Bisquick sausage balls that are simple to whip up for snacks or party treats. | cookbybook.com

Easy Cooking Directions

Getting Ready (15 minutes):
Warm the sausage to room temp. While waiting, grate your cheese. Put parchment on your baking trays. Heat your oven to 375°F.
Combining Everything (10 minutes):
Break the sausage into tiny bits. Mix in Bisquick bit by bit. Add cheese with a light touch. Blend until barely mixed. Pour milk in slowly if things look too dry.
Making Your Balls (20 minutes):
Try a small scoop for even sizes. Roll them lightly in your hands. Set them on your lined trays. Keep some space between each one.
Cooking Them Right (15 minutes):
Cook till they turn golden. Switch pans halfway. Make sure they reach 160°F inside. Cool a bit before you eat them.

I love thinking back to when I showed my daughter how to make these one Christmas Eve. She counted every single ball so everyone would get the same amount at our family breakfast the next day.

Last Thoughts: These Bisquick Sausage Balls aren't just a starter - they're a treasured holiday custom that pulls folks together. Served at fancy brunches or relaxed family meals, they always vanish fast. When you mix spicy sausage, tangy cheese, and soft breading, you get something really special that connects with Southern hospitality across generations.

Tasty Bisquick sausage balls packed with cheese and flavor, perfect for any gathering. Pin it
Tasty Bisquick sausage balls packed with cheese and flavor, perfect for any gathering. | cookbybook.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prep them beforehand?
Absolutely! Freeze uncooked balls for up to 3 months. Just thaw before cooking.
→ What sausage works best here?
Go with classic breakfast sausage, or try spicy or Italian for a flavor twist.
→ Is a food processor necessary?
Nope! Mix by hand or with a stand mixer. It’ll just take more elbow grease.
→ How can I tell if they’re ready?
Bake at 350°F until golden and cooked through, usually around 15 minutes.
→ What’s the best way to warm leftovers?
Heat them in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes or give them a quick zap in the microwave.

Cheesy Sausage Balls

Savory sausage blended with cheese and Bisquick for crunchy, tender bites. Ideal for snacks, brunch, or celebrations.

Prep Time
12 Minutes
Cook Time
10 Minutes
Total Time
22 Minutes
By: Susan

Category: Appetizers

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 24 Servings (24 balls)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
02 1 pound sausage, uncooked
03 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
04 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
05 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
06 1/2 cup milk
07 3 cups Bisquick mix

Instructions

Step 01

Set your oven to 350°F and cover a baking tray with parchment.

Step 02

In a food processor or mixer, toss together the sausage, Bisquick, cheeses, milk, garlic powder, and cayenne. Blend it all up until it's evenly mixed.

Step 03

Roll the mixture into small balls and arrange them on the parchment-lined tray.

Step 04

Pop the tray in the oven and bake for around 15 minutes, or until they're golden. Let them sit for a bit before digging in.

Notes

  1. These cheesy sausage bites are crispy outside and soft inside—great for breakfasts, snacks, or get-togethers.
  2. Freeze the uncooked balls by letting them firm up in the freezer for 15 minutes, then toss them into freezer bags. Defrost ahead of cooking.
  3. Feel free to add more spice, try other cheese types, or mix in fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
  4. Leftovers last 3 to 4 days in an airtight container in the fridge.

Tools You'll Need

  • Mixer or food processor
  • Tray for baking
  • Baking parchment
  • Spoon or scoop for shaping

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Includes dairy (like cheese and milk)
  • Uses gluten-containing Bisquick

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 218
  • Total Fat: 15 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 10 g
  • Protein: 10 g