Bisquick Sausage Balls are a classic, tasty snack that’s perfect for any time of day. They’re made with just a few simple ingredients—Bisquick mix, breakfast sausage, and cheese—and come together quickly in the oven. The result is a golden, cheesy, and slightly crispy bite that’s packed with flavor and super satisfying.
I love making these sausage balls when friends come over or for a quick appetizer at family gatherings. They’re so easy to whip up, and everyone always asks for the recipe. One tip I’ve learned is to use a good sharp cheddar—it adds just the right amount of zing and makes the sausage balls even more delicious.
My favorite way to enjoy them is warm, fresh out of the oven, with a little bit of honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce on the side. They’re perfect for snacking, brunch, or even a fun party appetizer that will disappear fast. Honestly, it’s hard to stop at just one!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bisquick mix: This is the base that gives the sausage balls their structure. If you don’t have Bisquick, you can use a mix of self-rising flour and baking powder as a substitute. Just keep it in the right ratio to maintain fluffiness.
Breakfast sausage: I like using a flavorful pork sausage, but you can swap it for turkey sausage for a leaner option. Just be sure it’s raw, as it cooks in the oven with the balls.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Cheese adds great flavor and moisture. Sharp cheddar is my favorite for its punchy taste, but you could also try Colby Jack or pepper jack for a little spice.
Milk: This is optional and helps add moisture if your dough feels too dry. You can substitute with buttermilk or even a splash of water if needed.
How Do You Get Perfectly Shaped, Moist Sausage Balls Every Time?
The key to great sausage balls is in mixing and shaping. Here’s how I do it:
- Use your hands to mix the ingredients well, ensuring sausage, cheese, and mix are evenly combined.
- If it feels crumbly, add milk a little at a time—moist but not sticky works best.
- Roll into 1-inch balls and space them apart on the baking sheet so they cook evenly and get lightly crisp.
- Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes and watch for a golden color to know they’re done.
Pro tip: Let them cool a few minutes before serving—they hold together better and taste even better warm!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I use a large one so I can mix everything easily without spilling.
- Meatball scoop or spoon – helps shape uniform balls quickly and reduces mess.
- Baking sheet – a standard size is perfect to hold all the sausage balls in one layer.
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray – keeps the sausage balls from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Oven – you’ll need a standard oven to bake the sausage balls until golden.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked and crumbled bacon instead of sausage for a smoky twist.
- Add chopped green onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and crunch.
- Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to give them a spicy kick.
- Try different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a varied taste.
Bisquick Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (raw, uncooked)
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Optional Ingredients for Flavor & Moisture:
- ¼ cup milk (to add moisture if needed)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and shape the sausage balls, plus 20-25 minutes to bake them until golden and cooked through. Total time is roughly 30-35 minutes, making this a quick and satisfying snack or appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to stop the sausage balls from sticking.
2. Mix Your Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the Bisquick mix, raw breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and if using, garlic powder and black pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until evenly combined. If the mixture feels dry and crumbly, stir in milk one tablespoon at a time until the mixture holds together nicely.
3. Shape and Bake:
Form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart for even cooking. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls turn golden brown and are cooked through.
4. Optional Crisp Finish:
For a crispier exterior, place the sausage balls under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
5. Cool and Serve:
Let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious warm and can be paired with your favorite dipping sauce like honey mustard or spicy mustard for an extra kick.
Can I Make Bisquick Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sausage balls and shape them, then store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake straight from the fridge—add a couple extra minutes if needed.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
It’s best to use raw, thawed sausage for even mixing and cooking. If using frozen sausage, thaw it completely in the fridge overnight and drain any excess liquid before combining with the other ingredients.
How Do I Store Leftover Sausage Balls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives great flavor, you can use Colby Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different tastes. Just use the same amount to maintain consistency.