Cheesy Southern Sausage Bites (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Sausage Balls
01 -
2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick)
02 -
1 pound ground sausage
03 -
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
04 -
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
→ For the Dipping Sauce
05 -
1 cup mayonnaise
06 -
1 tablespoon mustard
→ Optional
07 -
Olive oil for brushing (for a crispier exterior)
08 -
1-2 tablespoons milk (if mixture is too dry)
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grab a baking sheet and give it a good spray with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, combine the baking mix, uncooked ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and black pepper. Roll up your sleeves and use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. This takes some muscle but ensures all ingredients are evenly distributed.
03 -
Once your mixture is well combined, scoop out portions and roll them between your palms to form 1-inch balls. If the mixture feels too dry and crumbly, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to help it hold together. Place the formed balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
04 -
For an extra golden, crispy exterior, lightly brush each ball with a small amount of olive oil before baking.
05 -
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes total. Halfway through cooking (around the 10-minute mark), flip the balls over to ensure even browning on all sides. They should be golden brown and cooked through when done.
06 -
While your sausage balls are baking, whisk together the mayonnaise and mustard in a small bowl until smooth and well combined. This simple dip perfectly complements the savory sausage balls.
07 -
Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool for just a few minutes. Transfer to a serving plate alongside the dipping sauce and watch them disappear!
# Notes:
01 -
These classic Paula Deen Sausage Balls are a Southern party staple - savory, cheesy, and perfect for game days, holiday gatherings, or casual entertaining.
02 -
The baking mix (like Bisquick) gives these sausage balls a fluffy interior while the outside gets wonderfully crispy when baked.
03 -
These can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking, or even frozen raw for up to 3 months. If cooking from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.