If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the savory goodness of sausage with the iconic flavor of Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits, these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are about to become your new obsession. Just look at that photo—golden, cheesy, perfectly baked bites with a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful center. They’re the ultimate game day food, holiday appetizer, brunch addition, or anytime snack. Budget-friendly, easy to make, and absolutely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
· Only a Handful of Ingredients: Sausage, cheddar, cream cheese, and Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix. Simple and affordable.
· Ready in 30 Minutes: Quick to mix, roll, and bake. Perfect for last-minute entertaining.
· Incredibly Cheesy and Savory: The combination of sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and sausage creates an unbeatable flavor.
· Golden and Crispy: Baking at high heat gives them a beautiful golden crust.
· Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves sausage balls. They disappear in minutes at any gathering.
· Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.
· Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, breakfast bite, or game day snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
· 1 lb ground sausage (mild, hot, or Italian)
· 2 cups Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix (or Bisquick)
· 8 oz cream cheese, softened
· 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
· ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
· 1 teaspoon garlic powder
· ½ teaspoon onion powder
· ½ teaspoon black pepper
· ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
· 1 teaspoon dried parsley
· Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, biscuit mix, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Use your hands or a stand mixer to mix until everything is evenly incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Form the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Brush with Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and dried parsley. Brush the tops of the warm sausage balls with the garlic butter.
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
· Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese blends more easily and creates a smoother mixture.
· Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the sausage balls dense.
· Use a Cookie Scoop: A small cookie scoop makes uniform balls that bake evenly.
· Check for Doneness: The internal temperature should reach 160°F. The tops should be golden brown.
· Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, or freeze unbaked balls for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes.
Variations & Substitutions
· Spicy Sausage Balls: Use hot sausage and add diced jalapeños.
· Bacon Cheddar Sausage Balls: Add ½ cup cooked crumbled bacon.
· Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuit mix.
· Turkey Sausage: Substitute ground turkey sausage for a lighter option.
· Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Gruyère.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Bisquick instead of Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix?
Yes! Bisquick works perfectly. Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon dried parsley to mimic the Cheddar Bay flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze sausage balls?
Yes! Freeze unbaked or baked sausage balls for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven until hot.
What dipping sauces go with sausage balls?
Ranch, honey mustard, marinara, or a spicy aioli all work beautifully.
Are these keto-friendly?
No, the biscuit mix contains carbs. For a keto version, use almond flour and coconut flour.
Recipe Card: Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
· Prep Time: 10 minutes
· Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
· Total Time: 30–35 minutes
· Yield: 24–30 sausage balls
· Category: Appetizer, Snack, Breakfast
· Cuisine: American
Ingredients:
· 1 lb ground sausage
· 2 cups Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix
· 8 oz cream cheese, softened
· 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
· ¼ cup grated Parmesan
· 1 tsp garlic powder
· ½ tsp onion powder
· ½ tsp black pepper
· ¼ cup melted butter
· 1 tsp dried parsley
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Mix all ingredients except melted butter and parsley.
- Roll into 1-inch balls. Place on baking sheet.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until golden.
- Mix melted butter and parsley. Brush over warm sausage balls.
- Serve warm.
Nutrition (per sausage ball, approximate):
· Calories: 150
· Protein: 7g
· Carbohydrates: 6g
· Fat: 11g
· Fiber: 0g
· Sugar: 1g
Nutrition will vary based on specific ingredients and portion size.
Final Thoughts
These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are the ultimate easy appetizer—cheesy, savory, and completely irresistible. Whether you serve them for game day, holidays, brunch, or just because you’re craving something delicious, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Make a double batch—they go fast!
Have you made these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls? Share your favorite dipping sauces and variations in the comments below!