Get ready to revolutionize your appetizer game with these incredibly easy and undeniably delicious 4-ingredient Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls!
Combining the comforting flavor of classic sausage balls with the irresistible, garlicky, cheesy goodness of Red Lobster’s famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits,
this recipe creates a truly unique and crowd-pleasing snack. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, planning a holiday feast, or simply
looking for a savory bite, these flavorful sausage balls are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.
Elevating Your Appetizer Spread with Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Forget everything you thought you knew about traditional Bisquick sausage balls. This ingenious twist takes that beloved
appetizer to a whole new level of flavor and indulgence. The secret lies in the addition of
Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix,
which infuses each bite with a savory blend of garlic, herbs, and cheese that perfectly complements the rich sausage.
The result is a tender, cheesy, and incredibly flavorful sausage ball that stands out from the crowd.
These cheddar bay biscuit sausage balls are not only bursting with taste but also surprisingly easy to prepare, making them
a dream come true for hosts and busy home cooks. As a lover of appetizer parties, I understand the desire to spend quality time
with guests rather than being tethered to the kitchen. This recipe allows you to do just that. Much of the preparation can be
done in advance, leaving you free to enjoy the lively atmosphere and good company, only needing a few minutes for last-minute baking.
The simplicity of this recipe, requiring just four core ingredients, doesn’t compromise on flavor. It delivers a gourmet-tasting
appetizer without the fuss, making it an ideal choice for any occasion where delicious, easy-to-eat finger foods are desired.
From game day gatherings to festive holiday brunches, these sausage balls are sure to disappear quickly!
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Crafting these irresistible bites requires only a handful of readily available ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need,
along with tips for selecting the best components to ensure your sausage balls are nothing short of spectacular. Specific measurements
and a complete step-by-step guide are provided in the printable recipe card at the conclusion of this article.
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Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: This is the star ingredient that truly sets this recipe apart.
Make sure to use the entire mix, including the seasoning packet! The seasoning is crucial for imparting that signature
garlicky, cheesy flavor that makes these sausage balls so distinctive and reminiscent of your favorite seafood restaurant. -
Cream Cheese: For optimal texture and flavor, we recommend using a block of full-fat cream cheese.
It adds a delightful tang and helps bind the ingredients together, contributing to a moist and tender interior.
Remember to allow it to soften at room temperature before mixing; this ensures it combines smoothly with the other ingredients,
preventing lumps and creating a uniform dough. While regular cream cheese is preferred, low-fat varieties can be used
if you’re looking to slightly reduce the fat content, though the texture might vary slightly. -
Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar cheese is paramount for the best results. Pre-shredded cheeses
often contain anti-caking agents that can dry out your sausage balls and prevent them from melting and binding properly.
Shredding your own ensures maximum moisture and superior melting quality. While classic medium or mild cheddar works beautifully,
don’t hesitate to experiment with sharp cheddar for a bolder cheesy kick or pepper jack cheese if you crave a subtle hint of spice.
The fresh cheese creates those delightful, gooey pockets of melted cheese throughout the sausage balls. -
Ground Sausage: The foundation of these savory bites! We typically use Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage
for its balanced flavor, but this recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to substitute with other types of ground sausage
to suit your preference. Options include:- Turkey Sausage: A lighter alternative that still delivers great flavor.
- Italian Sausage: Adds a more herbaceous and savory profile, perfect for a Mediterranean twist.
- Hot Sausage: If you love a spicy kick, hot sausage will bring the heat.
- Maple Sausage: For a touch of sweet and savory complexity, especially if serving for brunch.
Ensure the sausage is uncooked when adding it to the mix.
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Favorite Dipping Sauce: While these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are fantastic on their own,
setting up a dipping station elevates the experience! They pair wonderfully with a variety of sauces, including:- Creamy Ranch Dressing
- Tangy Honey Mustard
- Zesty Remoulade Sauce
- Warm Queso
- Smoky Ketchup or traditional Ketchup
- Sweet and savory Barbecue Sauce
- Classic Marinara Sauce
- Rich Gravy
Offering a selection allows guests to customize their culinary adventure.
Essential Equipment for Seamless Preparation
Having the right tools can make the cooking process enjoyable and efficient. Here’s a look at the equipment that will assist you
in creating perfectly uniform and deliciously baked Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls.
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Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: While you can mix this dough by hand, a mixer makes the job significantly easier, especially
given the thick consistency. We typically use a KitchenAid stand mixer with a dough hook or paddle attachment to ensure
all ingredients are thoroughly combined into a cohesive mixture. A hand mixer will also work effectively for this task. -
Large Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a spacious bowl to comfortably combine the ingredients without spillage.
Ensure it’s large enough to handle the volume of the dough as it comes together. -
Small Cookie Scoop: This is a game-changer for achieving uniformly sized Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls.
A consistent size ensures even baking, so all your delicious bites are cooked to perfection at the same time. Aim for a 1-inch scoop. -
Parchment Paper: A true kitchen essential! Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper prevents sticking,
making it incredibly easy to remove the baked sausage balls. It also streamlines cleanup, as you can simply discard
the paper afterward. If parchment paper isn’t available, a good quality non-stick cooking spray or aluminum foil
(sprayed with non-stick spray) can be used as alternatives. -
Baking Sheets: Opt for baking sheets with raised sides. This design prevents the sausage balls
from rolling off the sheet, especially when you’re transferring them to and from the oven. -
Heat Resistant Potholders: Safety first! Investing in good quality, heat-resistant potholders is crucial.
Accidents can happen quickly in the kitchen, and reliable protection for your hands when handling hot baking sheets is invaluable. -
Paper Towels: Once baked, spreading the sausage balls on a layer of paper towels can help absorb any excess grease,
resulting in a lighter, crispier bite.
Crafting Your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls: A Simple Guide
Making these delectable sausage balls is incredibly straightforward. While a complete, detailed recipe card is located at the bottom of this post,
here’s a simplified overview of the steps to guide you through the process.
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to the specified temperature (400°F or 200°C). As the oven warms, take the opportunity to
gather all your ingredients and equipment. This mise en place approach ensures a smooth and stress-free cooking experience.
Line your baking sheets with parchment paper now to be ready for the shaped sausage balls.
2. Mix Ingredients Thoroughly:
In a large mixing bowl (or your stand mixer), combine the Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (including its seasoning packet!),
softened cream cheese, freshly shredded cheddar cheese, and uncooked ground sausage. Mix everything together until all ingredients
are well incorporated and form a uniform dough. If using a stand mixer, a dough hook or paddle attachment works wonders.
Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure no dry pockets remain.
3. Shape into Balls:
Using a small cookie scoop (about 1-inch in diameter) ensures that each sausage ball is evenly sized, promoting consistent baking.
Scoop the mixture and roll it gently between your palms to form neat, round balls. Arrange them in a single layer on your
parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even cooking.
4. Bake to Golden Perfection:
Transfer the prepared baking sheets to your preheated oven. Bake the Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls for
15-18 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the sausage
should reach 160°F (71°C). Once baked, remove them from the oven and, if desired, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels
to absorb any excess grease. Serve warm and enjoy these savory delights!
Preparation and Storage Tips for Convenience
These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are fantastic for meal prepping or making ahead, offering ultimate flexibility for entertaining.
-
Make Ahead: You can easily prepare these sausage balls the day before you plan to serve them.
Simply mix the ingredients, shape the uncooked sausage balls, and arrange them on a baking sheet.
Cover the baking sheet loosely with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator overnight.
When you’re ready to serve, just pop them directly into the preheated oven and bake as directed.
This cuts down significantly on last-minute stress! -
Storage: Any leftover cooked sausage balls should be stored in an airtight container
in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days. -
Freezing/How to Freeze: These sausage balls freeze beautifully, making them perfect for future enjoyment.
To freeze uncooked sausage balls, prepare and shape them as usual, then arrange them on a baking sheet without touching.
“Flash freeze” them by placing the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the balls are solid.
Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together.
They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To bake from frozen, simply place the frozen sausage balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake as usual,
adding a few extra minutes (approximately 5-10 minutes) to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through and golden brown.
There’s no need to thaw them before baking. -
How to Reheat: Reheating cooked sausage balls is a breeze. For a quick warm-up, use a microwave
for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. For a crispier texture, pop them into a toaster oven or conventional oven
at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed and slightly re-crisped.
Exciting Recipe Variations to Explore
While the classic Cheddar Bay Sausage Ball recipe is a winner, feel free to unleash your culinary creativity with these variations:
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Flavor Boosters: For an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing in finely minced scallions or chives,
a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder, or a dash of your favorite Italian seasoning blend into the dough.
Everything bagel seasoning sprinkled on top before baking also adds a wonderful crunch and savory depth. -
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, incorporate a tablespoon of finely diced jalapeños (deseeded for less heat),
a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. Using a spicy ground sausage is another excellent option. -
Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, simply substitute the ground sausage with a plant-based
vegetarian ground “sausage” alternative. Many brands offer excellent meat substitutes that mimic the texture and savory flavor. -
Vegan Adaptation: To make this recipe completely vegan, use a plant-based ground sausage substitute,
vegan cream cheese, and vegan shredded cheddar cheese. You would also need to find a vegan-friendly biscuit mix that
emulates the Red Lobster flavor profile, as the original mix contains dairy. -
Gluten-Free Version: Great news for those with gluten sensitivities! You can easily make these
gluten-free by using the Gluten-Free Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix, which is readily available on Amazon
and in many grocery stores. All other ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always double-check labels. -
Larger Group/More Servings: This recipe yields a generous amount, but if you’re feeding a very
large crowd, it can easily be scaled up. Instead of attempting to double all the ingredients in one go (which might
overfill your mixer bowl), we recommend making two separate batches as listed. This ensures thorough mixing and consistent results.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
These versatile sausage balls aren’t just for appetizers; they can complement a wide array of meals!
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For Breakfast or Brunch: Elevate your morning spread by serving these savory bites alongside:
- Fluffy Scrambled Eggs or a hearty Frittata
- Crispy Bacon (prepared in the oven, air fryer, or microwave)
- Sweet French Toast Casserole or classic pancakes like Cracker Barrel Pancakes
- Unique German Apple Pancake or light Bisquick Waffles
- A comforting Hashbrown Casserole
- Fresh fruit salad and coffee.
-
As Finger Food Appetizers: Pair them with other crowd-pleasing snacks for the ultimate party platter:
- Spicy Buffalo Pretzels
- Crispy Jalapeno Poppers
- Tangy Ranch Pickles
- Classic Pigs in a Blanket
- Zesty Alabama Fire Crackers
- Simple and elegant Easy Bruschetta
- A variety of savory dips.
- They also make one of our favorite side dishes to serve with Ham for a balanced meal.
Ideal Occasions for These Crowd-Pleasing Bites
The versatility and deliciousness of Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls make them suitable for nearly any gathering or meal:
- Holiday Parties and Events: A must-have for Christmas, New Year’s, or any festive celebration.
- Christmas Morning Breakfast: A savory treat to start a joyful day.
- Football Parties/Super Bowl: The perfect game day snack that’s easy to eat while cheering.
- Anytime You Need a Finger Food Appetizer: Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for mingling.
- When You Want an Easy Savory Snack: Quick to make and satisfying for any time of day.
- Brunch Spreads: A fantastic addition to any weekend brunch.
- Potlucks: Always a welcome contribution, as they travel well and are universally loved.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Achieve perfect results every time with these helpful tips:
-
Don’t Skip the Seasoning Packet! This is perhaps the most important tip. The small seasoning packet
included in the Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix is absolutely essential. It contains the garlic, herbs, and
spices that give these sausage balls their signature, craveable flavor. Do not discard it! -
Adjust Baking Time for Frozen Balls: If you’re baking your sausage balls directly from the freezer,
remember that the cooking time will increase by approximately 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are
golden brown and cooked through. -
Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is properly softened at room temperature.
This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, even mixture, which is key to a consistent texture in your finished sausage balls. -
Freshly Shredded Cheese: As mentioned, freshly shredding your cheddar cheese makes a significant
difference. It melts better and contributes to a more tender, less dry sausage ball than pre-shredded varieties. -
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until all ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to
tougher sausage balls due to overdevelopment of gluten in the biscuit mix. -
Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure all your sausage balls are roughly the same size.
This guarantees even cooking and prevents some from burning while others remain undercooked. -
Grease Absorption: After baking, transfer the hot sausage balls to a plate lined with paper towels
for a few minutes. This helps to wick away any excess grease, making them less oily and even more enjoyable.
A printable recipe card with precise measurements and comprehensive instructions is provided below for your convenience.
Please note that nutrition information, including calories, protein, calcium, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamin C, potassium,
cholesterol, sodium, trans fat, monounsaturated fat, polyunsaturated fat, and more, will vary depending on the specific
products and brands used. This is an estimate based on common ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about making Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls:
-
Can I use a different biscuit mix?
While other biscuit mixes can be used, the Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix is what gives these sausage balls their distinctive flavor. If you use a plain biscuit mix, you might want to add extra garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley to try and mimic the flavor profile. -
Do I need to brown the sausage before mixing?
No, the sausage should be uncooked when you mix it into the dough. It will cook through as the sausage balls bake in the oven. -
My mixture seems too dry/crumbly. What should I do?
Ensure your cream cheese is very soft. If it’s still too dry, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of milk (dairy or non-dairy) one at a time until the mixture comes together. The moisture content of different brands of sausage and cheese can vary. -
Can I add herbs or spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with a pinch of Italian seasoning, dried parsley, or a touch of cayenne pepper for extra flavor or heat. -
How do I prevent them from sticking to the baking sheet?
Using parchment paper is the best way to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. If you don’t have parchment paper, make sure to thoroughly grease your baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
Additional Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls, be sure to explore more of our fantastic recipes:
- Easy Dip Recipes: Discover our collection of savory and sweet dips, perfect for any party!
- Cream Cheese Recipes: Got extra cream cheese? We have a ton of delicious recipes to put it to good use.
- Vegetarian Air Fryer Recipes: Quick and healthy vegetarian appetizers that are perfect for entertaining.
- Game Day Appetizers: Score big with these flavorful appetizers, ideal for Super Bowl parties and major sporting events.
- Bacon Wrapped Smokies: Our go-to party appetizer – incredibly easy and universally loved!
- Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls: Another epic sausage appetizer that everyone will adore!
Be sure to check out all of our Appetizer Recipes.
Do you love finding new recipes? Explore our extensive collection of copycat recipes,
indulgent dessert recipes, and convenient
CrockPot Recipes.
For all our latest recipe posts and culinary inspiration, follow Tammilee Tips on MSN, Facebook,
Instagram, and Pinterest.
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Print
Rate
15 minutes
15 minutes
30 minutes
36
115kcal
Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 11.36 oz Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix
- 8 oz Cream Cheese Softened
- 1.25 Cups Cheddar Cheese Shredded
- 16 oz Ground Sausage Uncooked
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (with seasoning packet), softened Cream Cheese, Shredded Cheddar Cheese, and Ground Sausage until everything is thoroughly mixed together.
A stand mixer with a dough hook or paddle attachment makes this process easy, but it can also be mixed by hand.
- Using a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Kitchen Tools
- Parchment Paper
- Cookie Sheets
- KitchenAid Mixer or Hand Mixer
- Small Cookie Scoop
- Large Mixing Bowl
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 72