Easy Bisquick Sausage Ball Appetizers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these sausage balls are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of cheesy, savory flavor. I don’t need any special equipment, and the prep is so simple that I can whip them up anytime. Whether I’m serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or part of a brunch spread, I know they’ll always be a hit.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground meat, at room temperature
16 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated (at room temperature)
2 cups Bisquick baking mix
up to 1/4 cup milk, as needed

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, grated cheddar cheese, and Bisquick. Mix well using your hands or a spatula.

Gradually add milk, 1–2 tablespoons at a time, until the mixture holds together.

Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized portions (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).

Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 26 sausage balls
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth.
For a spicier kick, I sprinkle in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
I like swapping sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Colby cheese.
For a lighter option, I use poultry instead of red meat.
Chopped herbs like parsley or chives add a nice freshness.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I place them on a baking sheet and warm them at 325°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes. They also freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. When I reheat from frozen, I bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until hot all the way through.

FAQs

Can I make sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare them up to a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.

Can I freeze sausage balls before baking?

Absolutely. I shape them into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. I bake them straight from frozen with a few extra minutes.

Do I need to cook the meat first?

No, the meat cooks fully in the oven during baking.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but I find that freshly grated cheese melts better and binds the mixture more evenly.

Why won’t my sausage balls hold together?

If the mixture feels too dry, I add a little more milk until it sticks together.

What dipping sauces go well with sausage balls?

I like serving them with ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or spicy aioli.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, I use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick.

Are sausage balls best served hot or cold?

They taste best warm, but I also enjoy them at room temperature.

How do I keep sausage balls from becoming greasy?

I use lean meat and make sure the cheese is at room temperature so it blends better.

Can I serve sausage balls for breakfast?

Yes, I often serve them as part of a breakfast or brunch spread alongside eggs and fruit.

Conclusion

Easy Bisquick Sausage Ball Appetizers are simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a warm, cheesy snack that’s perfect for entertaining or everyday cravings. Whether I serve them on game day, at a holiday party, or as a quick bite, these sausage balls always disappear fast.