Why You’ll Love These Crack Sausage Balls

• Perfect for Parties: These bite-sized delights are the ideal finger food that guests can enjoy while chatting and mingling.
• Make Ahead: Prep these goodies up to 24 hours in advance, and they can even be frozen for a month!
• Savory Goodness: The combination of crispy bacon, flavorful sausage, and rich melted cheese packs an unforgettable punch.
• Quick and Easy: Tossing these together is a breeze, making them perfect for last-minute entertaining.

Ingredients

• Pork Sausage: This is the star ingredient, providing a savory base for the recipe.
• Bacon: Adding a crunchy and smoky flavor that takes these balls to the next level.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully to create that irresistibly gooey inside.
• Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture for easy handling.
• Ranch Dressing Mix: Gives the sausage balls a classic ranch flavor that everyone loves.
• Bisquick Baking Mix: Helps maintain structure, ensuring the balls hold their shape when cooking.
• Green Onions: Provides a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

How to Make Crack Sausage Balls

Making these mouthwatering sausage balls is simple and stress-free. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your pork sausage, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, Bisquick, and chopped green onions. Use a stand mixer with a dough hook or your hands to mix everything until thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Shape the Balls

Using your hands (or a cookie scoop for evenness), roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and lay them out on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them evenly.

Step 4: Bake

Pop those bad boys in the oven and bake for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen smells irresistible!

Step 5: Serve

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They pair exceptionally well with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, spicy aioli, honey mustard, or a creamy sriracha sauce! Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Crack Sausage Balls

Follow these tips to ensure your sausage balls are absolutely perfect:

• Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for fresh ground pork sausage for the best flavor. Consider trying spicy sausage for a kick or maple sausage for a sweet twist.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts better and tastes way more flavorful compared to pre-shredded varieties.
• Use a Mixer: If you have a stand mixer, use it to mix the dough thoroughly. This saves time and guarantees an even mixture.
• Chill Before Rolling: Refrigerating the mixture for about 30 minutes makes it easier to shape the balls.
• Measure Evenly: Using a cookie scoop helps create uniform balls, which ensures even cooking.
• Avoid Overbaking: Bake only until golden brown to keep them moist and tender inside.
• Add Extra Spices: For a flavor boost, consider adding cayenne, garlic powder, or smoked paprika.
• Experiment with Variations: Try different cheese types like Pepper Jack or Gouda, use flavored cream cheese, or mix in fresh herbs for unique flavors.
• Dip Freely: Don’t forget to offer a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the flavors!

How to Store

To keep your sausage balls fresh and ready for snacking, follow these storage tips:

To Store:

Place cooked sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Let them cool down completely first before sealing them up.

To Freeze:

If you want to prepare ahead of time, freeze uncooked sausage balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet until they are solid (about 1-2 hours). Transfer to a freezer bag, and they’ll last for about a month. When you’re ready to cook them, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time without thawing first.

To Reheat:

Reheat your sausage balls in an air fryer at 375°F for about 4 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Alternatively, warm them in a 400°F oven for 8-10 minutes until heated through.