Crispy Sausage Cheese Balls
These crispy sausage cheese balls are a quick and easy party appetizer featuring savory sausage, sharp cheddar, and a crunchy panko coating. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in, they deliver golden crunch and gooey cheese in every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cheese balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb uncooked breakfast sausage (regular or spicy, casings removed)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick; substitute almond flour or gluten-free baking mix if needed)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or black pepper
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for browning)
- Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy ketchup (for serving, optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Grate 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese.
- In a large bowl, crumble uncooked breakfast sausage. Add cheese, baking mix, green onions, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix until evenly combined. If mixture is too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons more milk; if too wet, add a little more baking mix.
- Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to shape 1-inch balls. Roll gently between your palms for a smooth surface.
- Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spaced 1 inch apart.
- Lightly spray each ball with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Rotate the pan halfway for even browning.
- Let cheese balls cool on the pan for 3-5 minutes before serving.
- Arrange on a platter, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve with dipping sauces.
Notes
Use cold sausage for easier mixing. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded. For gluten-free, use almond flour and gluten-free panko. Double-coat with panko for extra crunch. Space balls apart for crispiness. Rotate pan halfway through baking. Let rest before serving for best texture. Can be made ahead and baked from frozen.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheese ball
- Calories: 70
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Protein: 4
Keywords: sausage cheese balls, party appetizer, easy snack, finger food, crispy, cheddar, panko, holiday, potluck, game day