Crack Sausage Balls

Name: Crack Sausage Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 balls
Ingredients: 1 pound breakfast sausage; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Dishes

These Crack Sausage Balls are the ultimate party appetizer that combines savory sausage, cheese, and a touch of spice for a delightful bite-sized treat.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:52:20.538Z

Crack Sausage Balls are a beloved dish perfect for gatherings, tailgates, or just a cozy night in. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of sausage and cheese, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory and cheesy perfection in every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for last-minute gatherings
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite spices and cheeses

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

Crack Sausage Balls are an ideal addition to any gathering, from holiday parties to casual get-togethers. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve and even easier to eat, allowing guests to mingle while enjoying this delicious snack. Whether you're hosting a Super Bowl party or a family reunion, these sausage balls are sure to be a hit.

The versatility of this recipe also means that you can easily adapt it to suit different themes or tastes. Try adding different types of cheese, or a variety of spices to create a unique flavor profile. This adaptability ensures that these sausage balls will come out perfect, no matter the occasion.

Key Ingredients Explained

The main ingredient in Crack Sausage Balls is, of course, breakfast sausage. This savory base provides a rich flavor and juicy texture that makes each bite satisfying. Opt for a sausage with your preferred spice level, whether you like it mild or with a kick. The cheese adds a gooey, rich component, making these balls irresistibly cheesy.

All-purpose flour serves as the binding agent, giving the sausage balls their structure. Meanwhile, baking powder helps them rise slightly as they cook, ensuring a light, fluffy texture. The combination of garlic and onion powder infuses the mixture with aromatic flavors, while black and cayenne pepper can add just the right amount of heat. Feel free to adjust the spices to match your palate!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (though they may disappear quickly!), storing them is simple. Allow the sausage balls to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.

When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheating is straightforward. You can pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave works too, but be cautious not to overheat them, as this may affect their texture.

Ingredients

For the Sausage Balls

1 pound breakfast sausage
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Mix all ingredients together until well combined.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, cheddar cheese, flour, milk, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form Balls

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

Serve these delicious sausage balls with your favorite dipping sauce!

Serving Suggestions

Crack Sausage Balls are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right dips can elevate your appetizer game. Consider serving them with a spicy mustard or a zesty ranch dressing for dipping. These accompaniments not only enhance the flavor but also provide an interactive element for your guests to enjoy.

For a fun twist, serve these sausage balls alongside a cheese platter or a charcuterie board. This creates a beautiful spread that’s visually appealing and adds a variety of flavors and textures to your gathering.

Nutritional Information

While Crack Sausage Balls are undeniably tasty, it's always good to be mindful of nutritional content. Each ball is packed with protein due to the sausage and cheese, making them a satisfying snack. However, they do contain calories from fats and carbohydrates, so moderation is key.

If you're looking to lighten the recipe, consider using turkey sausage or reduced-fat cheese. These substitutions can help reduce the overall calorie count while still providing the savory flavors you love.

Common Questions

One common question is whether you can make these sausage balls ahead of time. Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the balls a day in advance, then refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. This makes them an excellent choice for busy hosts.

Another frequent inquiry is about ingredient substitutions. If you don’t have cheddar cheese on hand, feel free to experiment with other varieties like pepper jack or mozzarella. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the flavor and texture, so choose ones that complement the sausage well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! You can substitute with turkey sausage or any other flavored sausage you prefer.

→ How can I store leftover sausage balls?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

→ Can I freeze these sausage balls?

Absolutely! Freeze them unbaked on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with sausage balls?

These make a great appetizer on their own, but you can serve them with dipping sauces like ranch, mustard, or your favorite hot sauce.