Everyone knows it’s not a party unless there are snacks. Especially at big holidays, like Thanksgiving and Christmas, we all gather to share each other’s good company and, let’s be honest, eat great food. And while we all, of course, love main dish features like roasted turkey and baked ham, the festivities really get started as soon as the appetizers arrive. Cheesy, savory, scrumptious Spicy Sausage Balls are just right for setting the celebratory atmosphere! They are fantastically easy to make, and perfect for passing around. Guests can dip and enjoy with just one hand! As a kid, I don’t remember ever having a holiday celebration without sausage balls. Yet, nowadays, they are not as common at holiday parties. Let’s bring them back!
The Cheesiest Sausage Balls
To me, the perfect sausage ball is a cross between a meatball and a hushpuppy… It is meaty, carb-y, loaded with cheese, and great for dunking in any creamy dressings, gravy, or red sauce, like marinara or creamy roasted red pepper sauce. Using Bisquick makes this truly the easiest party snack recipe. The readymade baking mix combined with just a handful of other pantry staples creates a slightly crispy, wonderfully chewy, and ultra-cheesy sausage ball. They might be considered a party appetizer, but they are so yummy I guarantee you’ll want to make this savory snack all the time!
What Ingredients You Need
Here is everything needed to make the best Spicy Sausage Balls:
Pork sausage – your choice of spicy or mild Bisquick baking mix – for the easiest recipe (Regular or Gluten-Free!) Sharp cheddar cheese – packaged pre-shredded cheese will help cut down on prep on time Cream cheese – either full fat or low fat Chives – or finely chopped scallions Garlic powder – or any seasonings you choose
Pro Tip: Sharp cheddar is my favorite cheese and what’s traditionally used in sausage balls, but feel free to try this recipe with spicy shredded pepper jack, Colby jack cheese, or shredded parmesan.
How to Make Spicy Sausage Balls with Bisquick
It only takes about 15 minutes to prep Retro Sausage Cheese Balls, with just one mixing bowl needed. You can make these snacks a day before planning to serve. They reheat wonderfully in the oven in just a matter of minutes! Here is how to make our favorite party snack recipe: Serve Bisquick sausage balls warm, with your favorite dipping sauce(s). Made-ahead or leftover sausage cheese balls will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What Dipping Sauces are Best with Sausage Cheese Balls?
There are so many delicious dipping sauces that pair perfectly with cheesy sausage balls! I suggest having a few different dips set out for your guests to try. Caesar Dressing (shown in the photos) is my personal favorite. It is creamy and zesty, and is a great balance to the spicy pork sausage. You can also serve them with marina sauce, Sour Cream and Onion Dip, or Roasted Red Pepper Dip. Let me know in the comments what your favorite dipping sauce is!
How Can I Make the Best Gluten-Free Sausage Balls?
Simply swap out classic Bisquick baking mix with their fabulous gluten-free version. GF-friendly balls taste just as delicious as the classic snack!
Is This Recipe Keto-Friendly?
While you can make lower carb sausage balls with gluten-free Bisquick, this is not a keto-friendly recipe either way. Try these Thai Baked Turkey Meatballs or 5-Ingredient Low Carb Stuffed Mushrooms for tasty party appetizers that are both keto and gluten-free!
Looking for More Classic Party Snack Recipes?
Mini Cheese Balls Chorizo and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites 3-Ingredient Mini Stuffed Peppers Recipe Pimento Cheese Deviled Eggs Mexican Corn Dip Smoked Cream Cheese Salmon Sushi Bake Hamachi Crudo (Tuna Crudo) Smoked Shotgun Shells
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