Elevate your brunch: how to make sausage balls that will impress your guests

Sausage balls are a delectable appetizer or party snack that can elevate any gathering. These bite-sized morsels are easy to make and offer a delightful balance of savory and spicy flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the step-by-step instructions and essential tips to create mouthwatering sausage balls that will impress your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (regular or spicy)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage: Remove the sausage from its casing and brown it in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.

2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the browned sausage, flour, cheese, milk, onion, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Form the Balls: Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form 1-inch balls from the mixture. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the sausage balls for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls:

• Use a combination of regular and spicy sausage for a balanced flavor profile.
• Don’t overmix the dough, as this can result in tough sausage balls.
• If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk. If it’s too wet, add a little more flour.
• For extra crunch, roll the sausage balls in crushed crackers before baking.
• Serve the sausage balls with a variety of dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard.

Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or Parmesan.
• Spice Variations: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for an extra kick.
• Herb Variations: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme into the mixture for added flavor.
• Stuffed Sausage Balls: Fill the sausage balls with a mixture of cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese before baking.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the sausage balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.

Troubleshooting:

• Sausage Balls are Too Dry: Add a little more milk to the dough before forming the balls.
• Sausage Balls are Too Wet: Add a little more flour to the dough before forming the balls.
• Sausage Balls are Not Cooked Through: Extend the baking time by 5-7 minutes.
• Sausage Balls are Too Brown: Reduce the oven temperature by 25°F (10°C).

Wrapping Up

With these simple steps and helpful tips, you can now confidently create delicious and satisfying sausage balls that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a savory snack, these bite-sized morsels are sure to become a favorite. Experiment with different variations to find your perfect combination and enjoy the compliments that will inevitably follow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of breakfast sausage?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground beef for breakfast sausage, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Q: Can I freeze sausage balls?
A: Yes, you can freeze uncooked sausage balls for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: What is a good dipping sauce for sausage balls?
A: Popular dipping sauces for sausage balls include barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, and ketchup.

Q: Can I make sausage balls ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can form the sausage balls up to 24 hours ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving.

Q: Why are my sausage balls falling apart?
A: The dough may be too wet. Add a little more flour until the dough holds together well.