Bisquick Sausage Balls are a classic snack that’s super simple to make and always a hit. They combine the soft, flaky texture of Bisquick mix with savory sausage and melty cheese to create little bites that everyone loves. You get a perfect balance of crispy outside and tender inside with just a few ingredients and some oven time.
I always turn to this recipe when I need a quick appetizer or a party snack. I love how easy it is to whip up a batch in no time, and how flexible it is—you can add a pinch of your favorite spices or use whatever cheese you have on hand. These sausage balls are one of those comfort foods that remind me of family gatherings and holiday get-togethers.
My favorite way to serve them is fresh out of the oven, warm and gooey, maybe alongside a dipping sauce or just plain because they’re so flavorful on their own. They’re great for breakfast too, or just whenever you want a little savory treat that’s both satisfying and easy to eat. I recommend making a double batch because they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bisquick Mix: This mix is the main base, giving sausage balls their soft yet slightly crispy texture. If you don’t have Bisquick, you can use a homemade mix of flour, baking powder, and salt, but the convenience of Bisquick makes the process faster.
Ground Sausage: I prefer using breakfast sausage for its balance of fat and seasoning. You can pick mild or spicy depending on your taste. If you want a leaner option, turkey sausage works well but might be a bit drier, so adding a splash of milk helps.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor and meltiness. If sharp cheddar isn’t available, you can swap with Colby, Monterey Jack, or even a mild cheese blend. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
Milk (Optional): This helps if your mixture feels too dry or crumbly. Add a little milk gradually until you can easily form balls—they shouldn’t be sticky, just hold together.
How Do I Shape and Bake Sausage Balls for the Best Texture?
Forming the right size balls and baking them properly is key to crispy, tender sausage balls.
- Use about a tablespoon or golf-ball size for even cooking and bite-size snack portions.
- Don’t pack them too tightly; gently shape them so they stay tender inside.
- Give space on the baking sheet so the air circulates and they brown well on the outside.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. Check for golden brown outside and cook until no pink remains in the sausage.
- Let them rest a few minutes after baking so the cheese sets and they firm up a bit.
Following these tips will help you get that perfect crisp crust and juicy, cheesy inside every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing Bowl – I use a large one to combine the ingredients easily and avoid messes.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – To get the ingredients just right, especially the Bisquick and cheese.
- Baking Sheet – A flat surface to hold your sausage balls while they bake; I prefer lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon – To shape the sausage mixture into evenly sized balls quickly and consistently.
- Oven – To bake until golden and cooked through; a standard oven works perfectly for this recipe.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked and crumbled bacon or breakfast sausage with herbs for extra flavor and richness.
- Mix in diced jalapeños or peppers for a spicy kick.
- Swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack or pepperoni pieces for a different cheesy or meaty taste.
- Add herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary to give a fresh, fragrant touch to the sausage balls.
Bisquick Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 1 lb (450g) ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk (optional, to help bind if needed)
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling around 35-40 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a snack or appetizer any time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Area:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper so your sausage balls don’t stick.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, Bisquick mix, and shredded cheddar cheese. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well. If the mixture feels dry and crumbly, slowly add up to ½ cup milk to help it hold together just right.
3. Form the Sausage Balls:
Shape the mixture into golf-ball-sized balls — about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter works great. Place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet so they have room to cook evenly.
4. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the sausage balls in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until they’re cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if you like. Serve warm with mustard or your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy these tasty, cheesy, golden bites!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the sausage in the refrigerator before mixing. This helps the ingredients combine evenly and ensures even cooking.
Can I Make Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can form the balls and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake them ahead and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Yes! Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can swap in pepper jack, mozzarella, or Colby cheese for different flavors. Just use about the same amount.