These classic Sausage Balls are a holiday favorite—warm, savory, cheesy bites perfect for Christmas snack spreads, potlucks, and festive appetizer tables. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch that’s tender on the inside, golden on the outside, and irresistibly flavorful. Whether you're hosting a Christmas brunch, assembling a holiday appetizer board, or prepping easy finger foods for a party, this recipe delivers dependable, crowd-pleasing results every time.

This version keeps the traditional Bisquick foundation but includes optional moisture-boosting tips, cheese suggestions, and pro guidance so your sausage balls never turn out dry or crumbly. Make them fresh, or prep them ahead—either way, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast!

Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35–40 minutes
  • Servings: 10
  • Yield: About 35–40 sausage balls

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pork sausage (mild or hot)
  • 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk (optional, helps with moisture)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Ingredient Tips

  • Freshly shredded cheese melts better and helps bind the mixture.
  • If your mixture feels dry or crumbly, add 1–2 tablespoons more milk.
  • Hot sausage adds extra flavor and pairs well with mild cheese.

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add sausage, Bisquick, and cheddar cheese. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper if using.
  3. Mix thoroughly: Using your hands works best for fully incorporating the ingredients. Add the milk until the mixture becomes moist and holds together easily.
  4. Shape into balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
  5. Bake: Cook for 20–25 minutes, or until sausage balls are firm, cooked through, and lightly golden brown on the outside.
  6. Serve warm: Pair them with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy dipping sauces for an extra-delicious holiday presentation.

Best Practices

  • Avoid overbaking to prevent dryness—check them at the 20-minute mark.
  • For perfectly uniform sausage balls, use a small cookie scoop.
  • To create a softer, more tender texture, substitute 8 oz cream cheese and reduce Bisquick to 1 ½ cups.

Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated

  • Calories: 285
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 14g

Conclusion

These Sausage Balls are a must-have for Christmas celebrations—simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to be one of the first dishes to disappear from your holiday appetizer spread. Their ease of preparation, festive versatility, and freezer-friendly nature make them ideal for entertaining during the busy holiday season. Whether you serve them solo or alongside a trio of dipping sauces, these homemade sausage balls will bring warmth, comfort, and classic Christmas cheer to your table.

RecipesHoliday RecipesChristmas Recipes