I first made these Bisquick sausage balls when I needed a quick snack for an unexpected get-together. With just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes, they were a lifesaver. These sausage balls with seasoned ground beef and sharp cheddar bring bold flavor with minimal effort — perfect for busy days when you want something warm and comforting fast.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Bisquick Sausage Balls
- Made with smoky beef sausage that adds deep, savory flavor — a delicious twist on the classic sausage balls.
- Uses just three simple ingredients, making prep and cleanup a breeze
- Bakes quickly, ready in under 30 minutes for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining
- Crowd-pleasing and versatile—perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even party food
What are Bisquick Sausage Balls?
Bisquick sausage balls are a classic, easy-to-make appetizer or snack combining sausage, cheese, and Bisquick baking mix. They come together quickly and bake into golden, cheesy, flavorful bites. Their versatility lets you serve them at brunches, parties, or enjoy as a quick, satisfying meal anytime. These bite-sized treats blend savory sausage with melty cheese in a light, tender crust.
Ingredients for Bisquick Sausage Balls
- 1 pound ground beef sausage
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (I prefer sharp cheddar)
- 1 cup Bisquick baking mix
The key ingredient here is the beef sausage, which infuses a deep, smoky flavor that stands out compared to more common pork or mild sausages. Different sausage types like sage or Italian bring herbal or spicy notes, while maple adds sweetness. For cheese, sharp cheddar gives a tangy kick and meltiness, though pepper jack adds heat and Gruyère offers a nutty complexity. Each choice shifts the flavor and texture subtly, letting you tailor the sausage balls to your taste.
How to Make Bisquick Sausage Balls: Step-by-Step
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix the ingredients In a large bowl. Combine the beef sausage, shredded cheddar, and Bisquick baking mix. Stir gently until the mixture comes together without packing it too tightly.
- Scoop the mixture into 1 tablespoon-sized balls using a cookie scoop or spoon to keep them uniform, then place them on the prepared sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. Check with a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Drain excess grease by transferring the cooked sausage balls to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best experience.
If you have any questions while making these, please leave a comment—I’m here to help!
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitution Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bisquick baking mix | Gluten-free Bisquick or homemade gluten-free mix | Great for gluten-free diets |
| Cheese | Dairy-free cheese alternatives, mozzarella, pepper jack, Gruyère | Adjust flavor and meltiness to preference |
| Beef sausage | Turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or plant-based sausage | Lower-fat or vegetarian options |
Swap ingredients based on dietary needs or desired flavors to keep these sausage balls fitting your lifestyle.
Dipping Sauce Ideas for Bisquick Sausage Balls
- Honey Mustard: Mix ½ cup Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp honey, and 1 tbsp mayonnaise. Stir until smooth.
- Spicy Mayo: Combine ½ cup mayonnaise with 1-2 tsp Sriracha or hot sauce to taste.
- Cheese Sauce: Melt 1 cup shredded cheddar with ½ cup milk over low heat, stirring constantly until creamy.
Each sauce brings a different character—sweet, spicy, or cheesy—that pairs wonderfully with the smoky, cheesy sausage balls.
What Equipment Makes Making Bisquick Sausage Balls Easier?
A cookie scoop helps portion evenly for consistent cooking. A large baking sheet with sides works best to catch any drips and provide space for spreading out. Stand mixers can mix the ingredients more thoroughly without overworking, though a sturdy spoon works fine. Airtight containers or glass storage work great for leftovers, keeping the sausage balls fresh and ready for reheating.
How to Cook Bisquick Sausage Balls in an Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange the sausage balls in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning. Air frying reduces cooking time slightly and gives a crispier exterior. Check the internal temperature for doneness at 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Serving Suggestions for Bisquick Sausage Balls
These sausage balls are not just appetizers. Serve them with scrambled eggs and toast for a hearty breakfast. Chop and toss with pasta and marinara for a quick dinner twist. Add to a crisp green salad with vinaigrette for a protein boost and flavor punch. Their versatility makes them useful meal components beyond parties.
Storing and Reheating Bisquick Sausage Balls
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350-degree oven for 10 minutes until warm and crisp, or microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Use an air fryer for reheating to restore crispiness in 5-7 minutes.
Troubleshooting: Common Problems and Solutions
- Dry mixture: Avoid overmixing and do not pack the mixture. Add a tiny splash of milk if too dry.
- Greasy sausage balls: Drain excess grease on paper towels before serving. Use leaner sausage if preferred.
- Sausage balls falling apart: Make sure to use enough Bisquick mix for binding and don’t underbake.
Amazing Bisquick Sausage Balls: Easy Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- **Preheat the oven** to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- **Mix the ingredients** in a large bowl by combining the smoked beef bacon sausage, shredded cheddar, and Bisquick baking mix. Stir gently so the mix comes together without packing it too tightly.
- **Scoop the mixture** into 1 tablespoon-sized balls using a cookie scoop or spoon to keep them uniform, then place them on the prepared sheet.
- **Bake** for 12-15 minutes until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. Check with a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- **Drain excess grease** by transferring the cooked sausage balls to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best experience.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Bisquick sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and shape them the day before and refrigerate or freeze before baking.
How long do Bisquick sausage balls last?
Stored properly, they last 3 days in the fridge and up to 3 months frozen.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely, cheddar, pepper jack, or Gruyère all work well.
Can I freeze Bisquick sausage balls?
Yes, freeze them raw or cooked for later use.
Are Bisquick sausage balls gluten-free?
Traditional Bisquick contains gluten, but gluten-free Bisquick mix is available for a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
These Bisquick sausage balls are an effortless way to bring smoky, cheesy comfort to your table in under 30 minutes. With just three ingredients and simple steps, you can make a snack, appetizer, or meal addition that’s sure to please any crowd. I’d love to hear your variations or questions, so please leave a comment below and let’s keep the joy in cooking together!
