Sausage Balls Without Bisquick: A Deliciously Easy Recipe

Are you craving those savory, melt-in-your-mouth sausage balls, but don't have a box of Bisquick on hand? Don't worry! This recipe shows you how to make incredibly delicious sausage balls without Bisquick, using simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. These homemade sausage balls are just as easy, if not easier, and offer a chance to customize the flavors to your liking.

Why Skip the Bisquick?

While Bisquick offers convenience, making sausage balls from scratch allows for greater control over ingredients and flavors. You can tailor the seasoning precisely to your preferences and avoid any additives you might want to eliminate. Plus, homemade sausage balls often boast a richer, more satisfying flavor.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe relies on basic pantry staples, making it perfect for a quick weeknight appetizer or game-day snack.

• 1 lb Sausage: Choose your favorite! Breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or even chorizo will work wonderfully. Remove the sausage from its casing before using.
• 2 Cups All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for your sausage balls.
• 1 tsp Baking Powder: The leavening agent that gives the sausage balls their light and fluffy texture.
• 1/2 tsp Salt: Enhances the savory flavor of the sausage.
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper: Adds a subtle spice.
• 1/2 Cup Milk (or Cream): Binds the ingredients and adds moisture. You can experiment with buttermilk for a tangier flavor.
• 1/4 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Optional): Adds a delightful cheesy kick. Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
• 1 Egg (Optional): Binds the ingredients better and adds richness.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Sausage Ball Perfection

Follow these easy steps to create perfectly golden-brown sausage balls:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Brown the sausage: In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. This step adds depth of flavor.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add wet ingredients: Stir in the milk (or cream) and the egg (if using).
5. Mix everything together: Add the cooked sausage and cheese (if using) to the bowl with the dry and wet ingredients. Gently mix until everything is just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
6. Shape the balls: Roll the sausage mixture into 1-inch balls.
7. Bake: Place the sausage balls onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
8. Cool slightly: Let the sausage balls cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations for Amazing Sausage Balls

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Herbs and spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or dried oregano.
• Different cheeses: Try different types of cheese to change the flavor profile.
• Make them mini: Roll the mixture into smaller balls for bite-sized appetizers.
• Freeze for later: You can freeze the unbaked sausage balls for future use. Simply bake them from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

These sausage balls are fantastic as an appetizer, snack, or even a side dish. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as:

• Honey mustard
• BBQ sauce
• Ranch dressing

Conclusion: Your New Go-To Sausage Ball Recipe

This recipe proves that you don't need Bisquick to make incredibly delicious sausage balls. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can enjoy these savory treats anytime you crave them. Experiment with different flavors and variations to find your perfect sausage ball recipe! Enjoy!