Go Back
bestfeed

Paula Deen Sausage Balls

These classic Southern sausage balls are the perfect party appetizer - crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with savory sausage and sharp cheddar cheese in every bite. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!  
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 48 sausage balls
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Southern American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Baking Mix e.g., Bisquick
  • 1 lb Ground Sausage
  • 4 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  • 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
  • For the Dip
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Mustard

Method
 

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a baking sheet with non-stick spray. This temperature allows the sausage balls to cook through while developing a crispy exterior. Make sure the entire baking sheet is well-greased to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the baking mix, ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined. The warmth of your hands helps to incorporate the ingredients better than using utensils. Make sure there are no dry spots of baking mix visible in the mixture.
  3. Form the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Keep the balls uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Leave about an inch of space between each ball to allow for proper air circulation during baking.
  4. Bake the Sausage Balls: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. They should be golden brown on the outside and fully cooked on the inside. A meat thermometer should read 160°F when inserted into the center of a ball.
  5. Prepare the Dip: While the sausage balls are baking, prepare the dip by whisking together the mayonnaise and mustard in a small bowl until smooth. The creamy, tangy dip complements the savory sausage balls perfectly.
  6. Serve: Serve the warm sausage balls with the dip on the side. Arrange them on a serving platter with the dip in a small bowl for easy access.

Notes

  • You can prepare the sausage ball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Try using different types of sausage like hot Italian or breakfast sausage for flavor variations.
  • These sausage balls can be frozen before or after baking. To reheat, bake frozen balls at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
  • If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk to help bind the ingredients.