You’re going to absolutely love these Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls! Seriously, they’re a flavor explosion in every bite, combining savory sausage with melty cheese and just the right amount of spices. I whip these up for family gatherings and they disappear faster than I can say “seconds!” They’re perfect for parties, game days, or even just a cozy night in. Trust me, everyone will be asking for the recipe! They bring back memories of holiday dinners where we’d all gather around the table, laughing and sharing stories while munching on these delightful bites. You won’t want to miss out on making these!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: I love using a nice, savory breakfast sausage for that perfect flavor. You can choose mild or spicy, depending on your taste preference!
- 2 cups stuffing mix: This gives the balls that classic stuffing texture. I usually go for a traditional herb stuffing mix, but feel free to pick your favorite!
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: You can’t go wrong with sharp cheddar! It melts beautifully and adds a rich, cheesy goodness to each bite. Other cheeses work too if you want to mix it up!
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: This keeps the mixture moist and flavorful. You can use low-sodium broth to keep things balanced.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Fresh green onions add a nice crunch and a bit of brightness. They’re a must for that extra layer of flavor!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Just the right amount of garlic flavor without overpowering everything else. If you love garlic, feel free to add a little more!
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: This enhances the savory notes and works perfectly with the sausage.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick to bring all the flavors together. Adjust according to your heat preference!
How to Prepare Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls
Making these Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls is easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer in no time. Trust me, the aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is key for even cooking, so don’t skip this step! Let that oven get nice and toasty while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and crumbled, about 5–7 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when there’s no pink left and it looks nice and crispy. Make sure to stir it occasionally, so it cooks evenly. Wow, that smell is heavenly!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage with the stuffing mix, shredded cheddar cheese, chicken broth, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want a moist but firm consistency—think of it like a dough that holds together nicely without being too wet.
Step 4: Form the Balls
Now it’s time to get your hands a little messy! Scoop out about 1-inch portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Make sure to pack them tightly, but don’t worry if they’re not perfect—rustic is charming, right? Just aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly!
Step 5: Bake
Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them a little space to breathe. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and have a deliciously crispy exterior. You’ll know they’re ready when they smell irresistible, and a slight crust has formed. Yum!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make—perfect for last-minute gatherings!
- Flavor-packed with savory sausage and gooey cheese in every bite.
- Versatile—you can customize with different spices or cheeses to suit your taste!
- Perfect finger food for parties, game days, or cozy family dinners.
- They can be made ahead of time and reheated, making meal prep a breeze.
- Kid-friendly and sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table!
Tips for Success
To really nail these Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls, here are my go-to tips! First, don’t skip the preheating—it’s crucial for even cooking. If your sausage is too oily, drain some fat before mixing to avoid soggy balls. Also, make sure to pack the mixture tightly when forming the balls; this helps them hold their shape while baking. If you find the mixture too dry, add a splash more chicken broth. And remember, baking times can vary, so keep an eye on them towards the end—golden brown is the goal! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Ball (serving size: 1 ball). This will help you keep track while indulging in these tasty bites!
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 6g
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose, but it’s a solid guide to help you enjoy these delicious bites without worry. Now go ahead and dig in!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! You can switch it up with Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even a spicy chorizo for a kick. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change, but it’ll be just as delicious!
Can I make these Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare the mixture, form the balls, and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. You can also freeze them before baking and pop them in the oven straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with these stuffing balls?
They’re perfect on their own, but you can serve them with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a zesty dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost. They’re also fantastic alongside your favorite holiday dishes!
Are these Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you choose a gluten-free stuffing mix, these can be a great gluten-free option! Always check the labels to make sure everything fits your dietary needs.
How do I know when they’re done baking?
You’ll know they’re ready when they turn golden brown and have a crispy exterior. Also, the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen is a good sign that they’re just about perfect! Just keep an eye on them towards the end of baking time.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve devoured your delicious Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls, you might have a few leftovers (if you’re lucky!). To store them, simply place them in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can also freeze them! Just make sure they’re cooled completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last about 2 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy those scrumptious bites again, reheating is a breeze! For the best results, place them on a baking sheet and pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through and nice and crispy again. You can also microwave them for a quick fix—just be careful not to overdo it, as they can get a bit rubbery. A minute or so should do the trick, but keep an eye on them! Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
Print
Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls: 5 Irresistible Bites
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A savory dish combining sausage, cheese, and stuffing for a flavorful bite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 2 cups stuffing mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage, stuffing mix, cheese, chicken broth, green onions, and spices.
- Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Use any cheese you prefer.
- Can be made ahead and reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls, appetizer, sausage balls