Bisquick Sausage Balls

This simple warm-sausage trick makes Bisquick sausage balls softer, juicier, and way less dry — every single time.

These classic Bisquick sausage balls are a crowd-pleasing, three-ingredient appetizer that works for holiday breakfasts, potlucks, and game-day spreads. They bake up golden, tender, and cheesy with a crispy edge that makes them impossible to resist. If you love easy comfort-food recipes, you’ll also enjoy dishes like cheesy ranch potatoes with smoked sausage .

The secret? Let the sausage sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes and lightly moisten the cheese before mixing. This makes the Bisquick hydrate better and keeps the sausage balls tender instead of dry.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Fast: Only 20–25 minutes in the oven.
  • Minimal ingredients: Just Bisquick, sausage, and cheese.
  • Make-ahead friendly: Freeze unbaked balls for quick snacks later.
  • Great for feeding a crowd: They’re bite-sized and hearty.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
  • 1 lb ground pork sausage (mild or hot)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp black pepper

Want a cozy side to pair with savory snacks like this? Try serving with a warm bowl of creamy potato soup or alongside a crisp cucumber carrot salad.

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the sausage, Bisquick, and shredded cheddar. Using clean hands is easiest here. Mix until everything is evenly combined. The mixture will feel thick and slightly crumbly, but it will come together as you press it.
  3. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into firm balls. Place them about 1 inch apart on your baking sheet.
  4. Warm-sausage trick: Let the sausage sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
    Meanwhile, toss the shredded cheddar with 1–2 tablespoons of water or milk — this helps hydrate the Bisquick and keeps the sausage balls from turning dry.
  5. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown with crisp edges. The centers should be fully cooked and juicy.
  6. Cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

  • Pro Tip: Use room-temperature sausage and lightly moisten the cheese before mixing. This prevents dryness and makes each sausage ball soft and tender inside.
  • Add cream cheese: Mix in 4 oz softened cream cheese for a softer, richer texture.
  • Use spicy sausage: Hot sausage adds a deeper flavor and a little kick.
  • Try different cheeses: Pepper Jack or Colby Jack work well.
  • Make them gluten-free: Use a gluten-free baking mix that substitutes 1:1 for Bisquick.

Substitutions

  • Sausage: Turkey sausage or chicken sausage also work, though the texture will be slightly lighter.
  • Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese is fine, but freshly grated melts better.
  • Baking mix: Any all-purpose baking mix with leavening will work similarly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Bisquick sausage balls warm with ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy ketchup. They make a perfect addition to brunch spreads. Pair them with a sweet bite like cinnamon sugar donut muffins for a balanced breakfast board.

Storage & Reheating

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze unbaked balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes or air-fry at 350°F for 4–5 minutes.

FAQs

Why are my sausage balls dry?

Too much Bisquick can dry out the mixture. Start with 2 cups and add more only if the dough feels too sticky.

Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?

Yes! Mix everything, roll into balls, then refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use breakfast sausage links?

Yes. Remove the casings and use the ground sausage inside.

More to Try

Conclusion

These Bisquick sausage balls bring together savory sausage, sharp cheddar, and an easy baking mix for a guaranteed crowd favorite. They’re simple, satisfying, and perfect for any gathering from holiday mornings to tailgate parties. Once you make a batch, you’ll want to keep some in the freezer for quick snacks year-round.

Print
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Close-up of Bisquick sausage balls on a matte ceramic plate

Bisquick Sausage Balls


  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 30 sausage balls 1x

Description

These classic Bisquick sausage balls are cheesy, savory, and irresistibly tender thanks to a simple warm-sausage trick. Perfect for parties, brunches, and game-day spreads.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
  • 1 lb ground pork sausage (mild or hot)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Let sausage sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
  3. Lightly moisten shredded cheese with 1–2 tablespoons of water or milk.
  4. In a large bowl, combine sausage, Bisquick, and cheese. Mix with clean hands until well combined.
  5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into firm balls. Place 1 inch apart on baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and crisp on the edges.
  7. Cool for 5 minutes before serving warm with dipping sauce.

Notes

Pro Tip: Use room-temperature sausage and moistened cheese to keep the sausage balls soft and juicy. You can also add 4 oz of softened cream cheese for extra richness or swap in spicy sausage for more heat.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 balls
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: bisquick sausage balls, appetizer, cheddar, easy, party food

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