Introduction

Beef sausage balls are a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a hearty breakfast. These little savory bites are made by combining ground beef with sausage, cheese, and a few simple seasonings, then baking them until golden and crispy on the outside. The result is a savory, mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to holiday parties.

One of the best things about beef sausage balls is their simplicity. They require minimal ingredients, yet pack a punch in flavor. The rich, savory taste of the beef and sausage pairs wonderfully with the melted cheese, creating a delicious snack or appetizer that’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you’re making them for a crowd or just as a tasty treat for yourself, beef sausage balls are a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.

Why You’ll Love Beef Sausage Balls

Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a delicious batch of beef sausage balls ready in no time. It’s a great option for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Versatile: Beef sausage balls can be served as appetizers, snacks, or part of a breakfast spread. They can also be made ahead of time and reheated, making them a great choice for meal prep or parties.
Flavorful: The combination of beef, sausage, and cheese creates a rich, savory flavor that is irresistible. The seasonings add a little kick, and the texture is perfectly moist on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party or a casual gathering, beef sausage balls are always a hit. They’re easy to eat with your hands, making them a convenient choice for entertaining.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavor by experimenting with different types of sausage or cheese, or by adding extra spices to suit your taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: Approximately 24 sausage balls
Calories per Serving: Around 120-150 calories per sausage ball, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 120-150 kcal
Fat: 9-10g
Carbohydrates: 1-2g
Protein: 9-10g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g

Ingredients

For the Beef Sausage Balls:

1 pound ground beef (preferably lean or 80/20)
1 pound breakfast sausage (you can use regular or spicy, depending on your preference)
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will help prevent the sausage balls from sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breakfast sausage, and shredded cheddar cheese. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until the meats and cheese are evenly incorporated.

Next, add the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme (if using), salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the meat mixture. Mix everything together until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. The dough will be thick and a little sticky, but it should hold together well.

3. Form the Sausage Balls

Once the mixture is well combined, it’s time to form the sausage balls. Using your hands, take about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the ball onto the prepared baking sheet. Continue rolling the rest of the mixture into balls, spacing them about 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. You should end up with around 24 sausage balls, depending on the size you make them.

4. Bake the Sausage Balls

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the sausage balls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. The exact baking time will vary depending on the size of your sausage balls, so check for doneness by cutting one open to make sure it’s fully cooked. The internal temperature of the sausage balls should reach at least 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the sausage balls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. This will allow them to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle. Serve the sausage balls warm, either on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy mustard.

Tips for Perfect Beef Sausage Balls

Use a Blend of Meats: Combining ground beef and sausage gives these sausage balls a great flavor and texture. If you prefer a leaner version, you can use turkey sausage or chicken sausage, though the flavor may be slightly milder.
Shred Your Own Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your sausage balls.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your sausage balls with a little heat, add more cayenne pepper or use a spicy sausage. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a sweet or mild sausage.
Don’t Overmix the Meat: When mixing the sausage and beef, avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough sausage balls. Mix just until everything is combined.
Use a Cookie Scoop: If you want uniform sausage balls, use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough. This will help ensure that each sausage ball is the same size, which leads to even cooking.
Make Them Ahead of Time: You can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and refrigerate the unbaked dough for up to 24 hours before baking. This is great for meal prep or making them ahead for a party.
Make Them Mini: If you’re serving a crowd or want smaller bites, feel free to make the sausage balls smaller. Just adjust the baking time as needed, checking for doneness after 15-20 minutes.

Variations of Beef Sausage Balls

Cheese Variations: Swap out the cheddar cheese for other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Parmesan, for a different flavor profile.
Herb Variations: Add fresh or dried herbs to the mixture for additional flavor. Fresh rosemary, parsley, or oregano would pair nicely with the sausage and beef.
Gluten-Free Sausage Balls: If you need a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Make sure to check that the sausage you’re using is also gluten-free.
Bacon Sausage Balls: For an extra smoky flavor, add crumbled cooked bacon to the sausage mixture. This will give your sausage balls an even richer, more complex taste.
Spicy Sausage Balls: If you want to kick up the heat, use hot breakfast sausage and add extra cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture.
Low-Carb Sausage Balls: For a low-carb option, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. This version is perfect for those following a keto or low-carb diet.

Storage and Shelf Life

Beef sausage balls are great for leftovers and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

You can also freeze the sausage balls for longer storage. After baking and cooling them, place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fully heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Beef Sausage Balls

While beef sausage balls are delicious on their own, pairing them with other dishes can elevate your meal or party spread:

Dipping Sauces: Serve the sausage balls with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch dressing, honey mustard, spicy barbecue sauce, or a tangy buffalo sauce.
Pasta Salad: A simple pasta salad with fresh veggies and a zesty dressing makes a great side dish for these savory sausage balls.
Vegetable Platters: Serve with a platter of fresh vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers, along with a creamy dip for a balanced meal or snack.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with a citrusy dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sausage balls.
Breakfast Spread: For a breakfast or brunch gathering, pair the sausage balls with scrambled eggs, biscuits, and hash browns for a full and satisfying meal.
Beer or Wine Pairings: Beef sausage balls pair well with a cold beer, such as an IPA or lager. If you prefer wine, a full-bodied red wine like Zinfandel or Shiraz complements the savory flavor of the sausage balls.

Conclusion

Beef sausage balls are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers for a party or as part of a hearty breakfast spread, these savory, cheesy bites are sure to please a crowd. With their simple ingredients, easy preparation, and customizable flavor options, beef sausage balls are a dish you can make again and again. Try them today and see why they’ve become a favorite for so many!

Introduction

Why You’ll Love Beef Sausage Balls

Preparation and Cooking Time