Why You’ll Love these Sausage Cheese Balls
These sausage cheese balls are about to become your new favorite party appetizer, I promise. They’re incredibly simple to make with just six ingredients you probably already have on hand.
The combination of sharp cheddar and savory sausage creates that irresistible savory-cheesy flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.
What I love most? They’re versatile—perfect for holiday gatherings, game day snacking, or casual brunches. The crispy exterior gives way to a tender, flavorful center that’s downright addictive.
Plus, they’re substantial enough to satisfy hungry guests without requiring utensils. Ready in just 15 minutes, they’re my go-to when I need something impressive but effortless.
What Ingredients are in Sausage Cheese Balls?
These sausage cheese balls come together with just a handful of simple, flavorful ingredients that create the perfect savory bite. What makes this recipe so appealing is how it transforms basic pantry and refrigerator staples into something truly crave-worthy.
The combination might seem straightforward, but trust me, the flavor profile is anything but basic—the sharp cheddar plays beautifully against the seasoned sausage while the biscuit mix creates that perfect texture we’re all looking for.
- 3 pounds uncooked Jimmy Dean fresh sausage (2 packages)
- 16 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1½ cups biscuit mix
- ½ cup finely chopped celery
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
When shopping for these ingredients, quality matters. I recommend using a good-quality sharp cheddar rather than mild—it really makes a difference in the final flavor.
And while the recipe calls for Jimmy Dean sausage specifically, you could substitute your favorite brand of breakfast sausage. Just keep in mind that different sausages have different fat contents, which might slightly affect how the balls hold together.
The biscuit mix (like Bisquick) is what gives these their distinctive texture, so I wouldn’t recommend trying to substitute that particular ingredient.
Can you imagine biting into these at your next gathering? Everyone will be asking for the recipe!
How to Make these Sausage Cheese Balls
Making these sausage cheese balls couldn’t be simpler, which is part of what makes them such a perfect party appetizer. Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees—getting that temperature right guarantees your cheese balls will cook evenly and develop that irresistible golden-brown exterior.
While the oven’s heating up, grab a large mixing bowl and add all your ingredients: 3 pounds of uncooked Jimmy Dean sausage, 16 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1½ cups of biscuit mix, ½ cup of finely chopped celery, ½ cup of finely chopped onion, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder.
Now comes the fun part—mixing! You’ll want to roll up your sleeves for this one because the best way to combine everything is with clean hands. Get in there and really work the ingredients together until everything is evenly distributed.
The mixture will be quite thick and sticky, which is exactly what you want. Once thoroughly combined, form the mixture into 1-inch balls, placing them on an ungreased baking sheet. You might be tempted to make them larger, but trust me, the 1-inch size is perfect for cooking through while maintaining moisture.
Pop them in your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until they’ve turned a beautiful golden brown. The aroma that fills your kitchen while these bake? Worth making the recipe for that alone.
Sausage Cheese Balls Substitutions and Variations
While the classic recipe is always a crowd-pleaser, don’t be afraid to experiment with these sausage cheese balls to match your personal taste or dietary needs.
I often swap the Jimmy Dean for spicy Italian sausage when I’m craving heat, or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Not a fan of celery? Try bell peppers instead.
The biscuit mix can be replaced with almond flour for a low-carb version—though they’ll have a different texture, still delicious.
Vegetarians in your life? I’ve used plant-based sausage with surprisingly good results.
My sister swears by adding a dash of smoked paprika. Pure genius.
What to Serve with Sausage Cheese Balls
Three perfect dipping options elevate these savory sausage cheese balls to party legend status. I always set out a small bowl of tangy marinara sauce, warm honey mustard, and creamy ranch dressing—trust me, your guests will thank you.
These hearty bites pair wonderfully with a vegetable platter for balance. Think crisp celery sticks, sweet bell pepper strips, and cherry tomatoes.
For a complete appetizer spread, I add some pickled items like olives or pepperoncini.
Want to make it a meal? Serve alongside a simple green salad with vinaigrette. Simple, right?
Final Thoughts
After years of bringing these sausage cheese balls to potlucks and holiday gatherings, I’ve learned they’re absolutely foolproof crowd-pleasers.
The combination of savory sausage, sharp cheddar, and that hint of garlic creates something truly magical on your taste buds.
What I love most? Their versatility. Serve them as appetizers, pair them with eggs for breakfast, or add them to pasta for dinner.
Trust me, you’ll want to double the recipe. These little gems disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please.”
The leftovers—if you’re lucky enough to have any—taste even better the next day.
