The Coziest Paula Deen Sausage Balls Recipe For Winter Gatherings

Savory sausage balls bring a delightful twist to your party snack lineup.

Cheesy goodness meets hearty flavors in this classic southern appetizer.

Sharp cheddar and zesty sausage create an irresistible combination that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Mixing ingredients becomes a breeze with simple pantry staples.

Baking these little morsels fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that draws people closer.

Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these sausage balls promise to be the star of any gathering.

You won’t be able to stop at just one bite of this crowd-pleasing treat.

How to Store Sausage Balls

• Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, keeping them fresh and ready for quick reheating.
• Carefully place cooled sausage balls in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag, where they'll stay good for 2-3 months without losing flavor or texture.
• Warm refrigerated sausage balls on a microwave-safe plate for 30-45 seconds, checking to ensure they're heated evenly without becoming tough.
• Restore crispiness by spreading sausage balls on a baking sheet and warming at 350F for 10-12 minutes, bringing back their original golden-brown deliciousness.

FAQs

• What ingredients do I need for Paula Deen Sausage Balls?

You’ll need baking mix (like Bisquick), ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and ground black pepper.

• Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the balls in advance, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

• Are these sausage balls spicy?

The recipe doesn’t specify a spicy sausage, so they’re typically mild. If you want heat, choose a spicy ground sausage.

• What type of mustard works best for the dip?

Dijon or yellow mustard both work well. Choose based on your personal flavor preference.

Paula Deen Sausage Balls for Classic Southern Appetizers

• Whip Up Quickly: These sausage balls come together in minutes with just a few simple ingredients, making them perfect for busy cooks who want a delicious snack without complicated steps.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Packed with cheesy, savory goodness, these bite-sized treats are guaranteed to be a hit at parties, game days, and family gatherings, satisfying everyone from kids to adults.
• Versatile Party Starter: Super adaptable for different occasions like potlucks, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers, these sausage balls can be prepared ahead and serve as a crowd-favorite finger food that keeps guests coming back for more.
• Customize with Ease: Easily swap ingredients or add spices to match your taste preferences, allowing you to create a personalized version that suits your flavor profile and dietary needs.

Ingredient List for Paula Deen Sausage Ball Mix

• Ground Sausage: A flavorful and savory meat base that provides the primary taste and texture of the sausage balls.
• Baking Mix: A convenient dry ingredient that helps bind the mixture and creates a light, fluffy texture.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds rich, melty flavor and helps create a creamy consistency within the sausage balls.

• Ground Black Pepper: Introduces a subtle spicy kick and enhances the overall flavor profile of the sausage balls.

• Mayonnaise, Mustard: Combine to create a tangy and creamy dipping sauce that complements the savory sausage balls.

• Non-Stick Spray: Used to grease the baking sheet and prevent the sausage balls from sticking during baking.

Rolling and Baking Sausage Balls for Appetizers

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to 375°F and grab a baking sheet.

Spritz the sheet with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Flavor Fusion

• Baking mix
• Ground sausage
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Ground black pepper

Plunge your hands into the mixture and knead everything together until perfectly blended.

Don’t be afraid to get messy!

Step 3: Shape Delicious Bites

Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls, each about 1 inch in diameter.

Arrange them neatly on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each ball.

Step 4: Bake To Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven.

Bake for 18-20 minutes, taking a moment halfway through to flip the balls for even browning.

You’re looking for a beautiful golden exterior and fully cooked interior.

Step 5: Whip Up A Quick Dip

• Mayonnaise
• Mustard

Whisk these together in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Transfer the hot, crispy sausage balls to a serving platter.

Place the dip nearby for easy dunking.

Get ready for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’ll disappear in minutes!

Pro Tips for Moist, Flavorful Sausage Balls

• Add a splash of milk or cream to the mixture to prevent dry sausage balls and ensure a tender, juicy texture.
• Experiment with different cheese types like pepper jack or monterey jack for unique flavor profiles and extra zest.
• Prepare the sausage ball mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking to develop deeper flavors.
• Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick of heat.
• Substitute baking mix with a gluten-free alternative to make these sausage balls suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Tasty Sausage Ball Variations for Every Season

• Gluten-Free Sausage Balls: Replace baking mix with gluten-free baking mix or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version.
• Spicy Southwestern Sausage Balls: Use pepper jack cheese and add diced jalapeños for a zesty kick.
• Low-Carb Keto Sausage Balls: Substitute baking mix with ground pork rinds and use full-fat cheese for a ketogenic diet option.
• Vegetarian Protein Balls: Replace sausage with plant-based crumbles and use vegan cheese for a meatless alternative.

Serving Paula Deen Sausage Balls with Dipping Sauce

• Breakfast Bliss: Pair these savory sausage balls with scrambled eggs and fresh orange juice for a hearty morning meal.
• Game Day Gathering: Serve as a crowd-pleasing appetizer during sports events, with extra mustard dip on the side for bold flavor.
• Brunch Brilliance: Create a quick and tasty party platter by arranging sausage balls with toothpicks and complementing them with a light green salad.
• Potluck Perfection: Pack these portable bites in a warm container for easy transport to family gatherings or community events.

Paula Deen Sausage Balls Recipe

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4.8 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

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Description

Spicy and cheesy, paula deen sausage balls deliver a mouthwatering appetizer perfect for game day or holiday gatherings. Southern comfort meets irresistible flavor, promising quick preparation and crowd-pleasing results you’ll savor with every delicious bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground sausage
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups baking mix (e.g., Bisquick)

Seasoning:

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Dip Ingredients:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon mustard

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly coat a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine baking mix, ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and ground black pepper. Use clean hands to blend ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
3. Gently shape the mixture into uniform 1-inch spherical balls, carefully placing them with equal spacing on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and cook for 18-20 minutes, rotating the pan midway through cooking to promote consistent golden-brown coloration and even heating.
5. During baking, quickly whisk mayonnaise and mustard together in a separate small bowl, creating a smooth, creamy dipping sauce with complementary tangy notes.
6. Once sausage balls emerge golden and crisp, remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to stabilize their structure. Plate the warm appetizers alongside the prepared mustard-mayo dip for immediate serving.

Notes

• Customize heat levels by choosing mild, medium, or spicy sausage based on personal preference.
• Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for better melting and richer flavor.
• Make ahead and freeze uncooked sausage balls for quick party appetizers or unexpected guests.
• For gluten-free option, swap baking mix with almond flour or gluten-free baking blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 272
• Sugar: 0.3 g
• Sodium: 385 mg
• Fat: 23 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Protein: 11 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg