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Savory Sausage Cheese Balls – Easy Crispy Cheddar & Herb Appetizer

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These sausage cheese balls are a crowd-pleasing, crispy, cheesy appetizer loaded with savory sausage, sharp cheddar, and fresh herbs. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a comforting snack, they’re easy to make and always a hit.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground pork sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose baking mix (like Bisquick)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated (for topping)
  • Fresh herbs (parsley or chives), optional for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Using a box grater, shred 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese. Set aside 1/2 cup for topping.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground sausage, 2 cups shredded cheddar, and softened cream cheese. Mix until evenly combined.
  4. Add baking mix, chopped parsley, chopped chives, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until a cohesive, slightly tacky dough forms. If too dry, add 1-2 tbsp milk; if too wet, add more baking mix.
  5. Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion dough into balls about 1–1.5 inches in diameter. Roll between palms for a smooth finish (makes about 30-34 balls).
  6. Arrange balls about 1 inch apart on the lined baking sheet.
  7. Sprinkle reserved 1/2 cup cheddar evenly over the balls.
  8. Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese edges are crispy. Cut one open to check doneness.
  9. Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.
  10. Serve warm for best texture, or at room temperature.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese and room temperature ingredients. Chill shaped balls for 10–15 minutes before baking for a crispier outside. To make gluten-free, substitute baking mix with a gluten-free blend. Freeze unbaked balls for up to 2 months and bake straight from frozen, adding 5 minutes to bake time. Serve with mustard, ranch, or sriracha-mayo for dipping.

Nutrition

Keywords: sausage cheese balls, appetizer, party food, cheddar, herbs, easy snack, comfort food, holiday, potluck, finger food

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/savory-sausage-cheese-balls-recipe-easy-crispy-cheddar-and-herb-appetizer/