Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a savory, crowd-pleasing treat that brings together the rich flavors of sausage, cheddar cheese, and the iconic Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any occasion, from parties and gatherings to quick snacks or even breakfast. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a convenient, flavorful dish that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
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Why Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Are a Must-Try
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are not just easy to make; they are incredibly versatile too. Whether you’re planning a game day snack, a holiday appetizer, or even a quick dinner, these sausage balls can do it all. The unique combination of the Red Lobster biscuit mix and sausage creates a mouthwatering, flavorful base, while the shredded cheddar cheese adds richness and depth. With a perfect balance of spices and a simple baking process, these sausage balls offer great taste with minimal effort.
Ingredients for Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
To make these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor, texture, and aroma, making this dish a standout.
• Cheddar Cheese (shredded): Adds a creamy, rich flavor and a nice melt to the sausage balls.
• Sausage Meat: Provides the savory, hearty foundation for the balls. You can choose mild or spicy sausage based on your preference.
• Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: This is the star ingredient that gives the sausage balls their signature biscuit-like texture.
• Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
• Salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the taste of the sausage and cheese.
• Butter (melted): Used to brush over the sausage balls to add moisture and richness, making them even more delicious.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
If you’re looking for ways to customize the recipe or make it more suited to your dietary needs, here are a few substitutions:
• Cheddar Cheese: Swap with pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick, or use a reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.
• Sausage Meat: For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken sausage. You can also use a vegetarian sausage substitute for a meatless version.
• Butter: Use olive oil or coconut oil as a healthier alternative to butter.
• Red Lobster Biscuit Mix: If you don’t have access to the mix, you can make your own with self-rising flour, garlic powder, and a bit of baking powder.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Creating these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls is simple. Follow these steps for perfectly cooked, delicious sausage balls every time:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, sausage meat, Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix, pepper, and salt. Use your hands to mix everything together until it’s well combined.
- Form the Balls: Take a tablespoon-sized scoop of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the balls onto a baking sheet, making sure they are evenly spaced.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the sausage balls for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Brush with Butter: While the sausage balls bake, mix the melted butter with the seasoning packet from the biscuit mix. Once the sausage balls are done, brush the butter mixture over them for extra flavor and moisture.
- Serve: Allow the sausage balls to cool slightly, then serve them up with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Here are a few tips to make your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls even better:
• Don’t Overmix: When mixing the ingredients, be careful not to overwork the sausage mixture. Overmixing can lead to tough sausage balls.
• Check the Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Sausage balls are fully cooked once they reach 165°F.
• Customize the Flavor: Experiment with adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. You can also add a bit of garlic powder or onion powder for an extra flavor boost.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the sausage balls and place them on a baking sheet. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for meal prepping or getting ahead of a party.
• Storage: Leftover sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Pairing Ideas and Variations for Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
While Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are great on their own, they can also be paired with a variety of sides and sauces for a complete meal:
• Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, remoulade, sweet chili sauce, or barbecue sauce.
• Side Dishes: These sausage balls make a great side dish to buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad.
• Breakfast Option: Pair with scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
• Spicy Version: Add a spicy twist by using hot sausage or incorporating diced jalapeños into the mix.
Why You Should Make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are more than just a simple snack — they are a crowd favorite that can be served at any occasion, whether it’s a game day, a family dinner, or a holiday feast. The combination of cheddar cheese and sausage creates a savory and satisfying flavor, while the Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix adds a light, fluffy texture. Quick to prepare, easy to bake, and customizable to your liking, these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a must-try recipe that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Conclusion
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or looking for a fun snack, these savory sausage balls are sure to be a hit. Their versatility, rich flavors, and simple preparation make them a go-to recipe that will quickly become a crowd favorite. With the added bonus of being customizable for different tastes and dietary preferences, these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are the ultimate savory treat to serve any time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sausage ball mixture, form the balls, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them a perfect option for meal prep or when you’re planning ahead for a party or gathering.
2. Can I freeze Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked sausage balls. Simply place them on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, and then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
3. How do I make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls spicier?
To add some heat, swap the regular cheddar cheese for pepper jack cheese, and use hot sausage in place of mild sausage. You can also add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture for an extra kick.
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Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 30 sausage balls 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a savory, bite-sized treat made with sausage, cheddar cheese, and Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix. These easy-to-make balls are perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a quick snack. They’re flavorful, versatile, and great for all ages.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 pound sausage meat
- 1 (11 oz) box Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, sausage meat, Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix, pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined.
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sausage balls reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- While the sausage balls bake, mix melted butter with the seasoning packet from the biscuit mix in a small bowl.
- Once the sausage balls are done, remove them from the oven and brush with the butter and seasoning mixture.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure to not overmix the sausage mixture to avoid tough balls.
- These sausage balls can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- You can freeze the uncooked sausage balls for later use; just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- For a spicier version, use hot sausage or add diced jalapeños to the mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sausage ball
- Calories: 121
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 264mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 27mg
