Crack Sausage Cheddar Balls

You know that dish that disappears the second you set it down at a party? Yeah, these crack sausage balls are it! They’re the perfect mix of savory, cheesy, and just a little indulgent.

I mean, sausage, bacon, cheddar, and ranch all rolled into one? It’s like they were made to be the MVP of your appetizer spread.

Whether it’s game day, holiday get-together, or just a random Tuesday, these little bites deliver every single time.

Ingredients

• Pork Sausage: It provides the main protein and savory base for these appetizer balls
• Bacon: It adds a smoky, salty crunch and intensifies the meaty flavor profile
• Cheddar Cheese: It melts beautifully, creating a gooey interior and rich, tangy taste
• Cream Cheese: It acts as a binding agent while adding creamy richness and moisture to the mixture
• Ranch Dressing Mix: It provides classic ranch flavor throughout the balls
• Bisquick Baking Mix: It creates structure and helps the balls hold their shape
• Green Onions: They provide a mild onion flavor and bright color

How to Make Crack Sausage Balls

Prepare the oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it

Mix the ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, Bisquick, and chopped green onions Use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or your hands to blend everything until evenly combined

Shape the balls:

Scoop and roll the mixture into 1-inch balls, arranging them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet

Bake:

Place the sausage balls in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through

Serve:

Allow the sausage balls to cool slightly before serving For extra flavor, pair them with dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, spicy aioli, honey mustard, or a creamy sriracha sauce

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Tips for the Best Crack Sausage Balls

Select the best sausage Use raw ground pork sausage for best results For variety, try spicy sausage for heat, maple sausage for sweetness, or sage-flavored sausage for an herby twist Jimmy Dean or Odom’s Tennessee Pride are excellent choices

Skip the bagged stuff Use freshly shredded cheddar for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese

Take a shortcut Mixing the thick dough with a stand mixer and dough hook ensures even distribution and saves time

Let it chill Refrigerating the mixture before rolling makes it easier to handle and shape

Get scooping Use a cookie scoop for uniform 1-inch balls, ensuring consistent cooking

Don’t overbake Bake until golden brown to keep the sausage balls moist and tender

Amp up the flavor Add spices like cayenne, garlic powder, or smoked paprika for extra flavor

Try fun variations Swap Cheddar for Pepper Jack or Gouda, use flavored cream cheese, or add herbs like rosemary or thyme for unique flavors

Dip to your heart’s content Pair with ranch dressing, spicy aioli, honey mustard, creamy sriracha sauce, or sweet chili sauce for added flavor

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How to Store

Keep your sausage balls party-ready with these easy tips

To Store Store cooked sausage balls in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days For best results, let them cool completely before storing

To Freeze Place uncooked sausage balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until solid (about 1 to 2 hours), then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month When ready to cook frozen sausage balls, add 5 to 10 minutes to the original baking time, with no need to thaw first

To Reheat Place sausage balls in an air fryer at 375°F for 4 minutes, then flip and heat for an additional 2 minutes Or, reheat in a 400°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes until heated through

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use spicy sausage instead of regular?

Yes, spicy sausage adds a delicious kick and works well with the cheesy, savory profile of the balls.

→ How can I make them ahead of time?

Mix and shape the balls, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to a month before baking.

→ What’s the best way to reheat sausage balls?

Use an air fryer at 375°F for 4-6 minutes or bake in a 400°F oven for about 8-10 minutes until heated through.

→ What dips pair well with these?

Try ranch, honey mustard, spicy aioli, or creamy sriracha for a flavorful dipping experience.

→ Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a richer flavor, but pre-shredded works in a pinch.

→ Do I need to cook the sausage before mixing?

No, use raw sausage as it cooks during baking and blends better with the other ingredients.