Jalapeno Sausage Balls Recipe

Introduction

Jalapeno Sausage Balls are a bold and savory appetizer that combines the perfect balance of spicy, cheesy, and savory flavors. These bite-sized treats are made with ground sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and the zesty kick of fresh jalapenos. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a game-day snack, or craving a flavorful appetizer, Jalapeno Sausage Balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Their combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and spicy heat from the jalapenos creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite. The dough is mixed together, rolled into balls, and baked until golden brown, resulting in a satisfying texture and a flavor-packed treat. These sausage balls are easy to prepare and are perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs.

Ideal for any occasion, Jalapeno Sausage Balls are versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. This guide will take you step-by-step through making these delicious bites, share helpful tips for ensuring they turn out perfect every time, and suggest variations to suit different tastes.

Why You’ll Love Jalapeno Sausage Balls

• Bold Flavor: The savory taste of sausage and the spicy heat from fresh jalapenos provide a bold flavor that is perfect for anyone who enjoys a little heat in their snacks.
• Cheesy Goodness: The sharp cheddar cheese adds a creamy, melty texture to the sausage balls, balancing the spiciness of the jalapenos and creating a rich, satisfying bite.
• Perfect Texture: These sausage balls are tender yet slightly crispy on the outside, thanks to the baking process. The combination of cheese and sausage ensures that the inside is moist and flavorful.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients like sausage, cheese, flour, and jalapenos, these sausage balls are easy to whip up without requiring any special tools or advanced techniques.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, game day, or just a snack to enjoy with friends and family, Jalapeno Sausage Balls are a versatile dish that everyone will love.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 24 sausage balls
• Calories per Serving: Around 110-130 calories per sausage ball, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 110-130 kcal
• Fat: 9-11g
• Carbohydrates: 1-2g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Sausage Balls:

• 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2-3 fresh jalapenos, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
• ½ cup milk (or more, if needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the sausage balls from sticking and to ensure even baking. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray or butter.

2. Prepare the Sausage Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients together until everything is evenly incorporated. It’s important to mix thoroughly to ensure that the sausage, cheese, and dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

3. Add the Jalapenos

Next, add the finely chopped fresh jalapenos to the mixture. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove the seeds from the jalapenos before chopping them. The seeds carry most of the heat, so removing them will result in a more moderate level of spiciness. If you enjoy a spicier bite, leave the seeds in.

Mix the jalapenos into the sausage mixture until they are evenly spread throughout. You should be able to see little green specks of jalapeno throughout the mixture, which will add both flavor and a pop of color.

4. Add Milk to Form the Dough

Slowly add the milk to the mixture, a little at a time, until the dough comes together and is moist enough to be rolled into balls. The dough should be slightly sticky, but not overly wet. Add more milk if necessary, but be careful not to make the dough too runny.

5. Roll the Dough into Balls

Once the dough is mixed to the right consistency, use a tablespoon or a cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each portion into a ball, about 1 to 1 ½ inches in diameter. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The sausage balls will expand slightly during baking, so giving them enough room will help them bake evenly.

6. 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. You can test for doneness by cutting one of the sausage balls in half—if the center is no longer pink and the sausage is fully cooked, the sausage balls are ready to come out of the oven.

If you prefer a slightly crispier exterior, leave them in the oven for an additional minute or two. Be careful not to overbake, as the sausage balls will become dry.

7. Cool and Serve

Once the sausage balls are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This will allow them to firm up slightly and make them easier to handle.

Serve the Jalapeno Sausage Balls warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own, or you can pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a spicy mustard.

Tips for Perfect Jalapeno Sausage Balls

• Use Fresh Sausage: For the best flavor, use fresh breakfast sausage. You can use either mild or spicy sausage, depending on your preference. If you like extra heat, opt for a spicy sausage and add more jalapenos.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your sausage balls. Grate your own sharp cheddar cheese for a creamier and meltier texture.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re making these for a crowd with varying spice tolerances, you can adjust the level of heat by removing the jalapeno seeds, using fewer jalapenos, or opting for a milder variety like banana peppers.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing the ingredients together, be careful not to overwork the dough. Overmixing can result in dense sausage balls, so mix just enough to combine the ingredients.
• Check for Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, be sure to check for doneness by cutting into one of the sausage balls. The center should be fully cooked and the sausage should no longer be pink.

Variations of Jalapeno Sausage Balls

• Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses. These will add different flavors and textures to the sausage balls.
• Add Bacon: For an extra savory treat, add crumbled cooked bacon to the sausage ball mixture. The smoky flavor of bacon complements the spiciness of the jalapenos and the richness of the sausage.
• Mini Sausage Balls: For bite-sized appetizers, reduce the size of the sausage balls to about ¾ inch in diameter. These mini versions are perfect for parties or gatherings.
• Herbed Sausage Balls: Add some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the mixture for a burst of fresh flavor. These herbs will complement the heat from the jalapenos and add extra freshness to each bite.
• Gluten-Free Sausage Balls: For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Storage and Shelf Life

Jalapeno Sausage Balls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later. To store, place the cooled sausage balls in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

To freeze, arrange the cooled sausage balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen sausage balls can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake the frozen sausage balls at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Jalapeno Sausage Balls

Jalapeno Sausage Balls are a savory treat that pairs well with a variety of dishes:

• Dipping Sauces: Serve these sausage balls with dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, spicy mustard, or a cool sour cream dip to balance the heat from the jalapenos.
• Fresh Veggies: Pair the sausage balls with a platter of fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, and cucumber for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sausage.
• Salads: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the savory flavors of the sausage balls and adds a light, refreshing side.
• Drinks: Jalapeno Sausage Balls go perfectly with a cold beer, a glass of iced tea, or a refreshing margarita for a fiesta-worthy combination.

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Conclusion

Jalapeno Sausage Balls are the perfect savory snack that brings together the bold flavors of sausage, cheese, and jalapenos in a bite-sized package. These flavorful treats are sure to be a hit at any party, gathering, or casual snack time. With their easy-to-follow recipe, simple ingredients, and customizable variations, you can create a batch of Jalapeno Sausage Balls that will delight anyone who loves a little spice in their life.

Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or enjoying them as a snack, these sausage balls are a versatile and crowd-pleasing treat that will keep everyone coming back for more. Enjoy the bold flavors and savory goodness of these irresistible bites!