Did you know each cheddar bay sausage ball has 129 calories of deliciousness? These treats are a hit at game days across the U.S.I’m excited to share how to make the best sausage appetizers. They combine Red Lobster Cheddar Bay biscuit mix, savory sausage, and melted cheese. It’s a party food idea that everyone will love.
Hosting a game night or just want a tasty snack? These cheddar bay sausage balls will impress. They’re easy to make and look like they came from a pro.In this article, I’ll guide you through making these tasty bites. I’ll share tips to make sure they’re golden and full of flavor every time.
The Perfect Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
These game day snacks are more than just another appetizer. Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a culinary masterpiece. They turn simple ingredients into bite-sized treats everyone will love. My recipe takes the traditional sausage ball to a new level of deliciousness.
What Makes These Sausage Balls Special
The secret to these sausage balls is their unique ingredients. Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix adds restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen. This mix gives them an amazing garlic and herb taste that stands out from other recipes.
Key Ingredients Overview
- Sharp cheddar cheese for rich, tangy flavor
- Breakfast sausage for hearty, meaty texture
- Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix for unique seasoning
- Cream cheese for creamy consistency
Why Red Lobster Biscuit Mix is Essential
The 11.36-ounce box of Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix makes ordinary sausage balls into an extraordinary appetizer. Its pre-mixed herbs and garlic add depth of flavor that standard baking mixes can’t match. With sharp cheddar cheese and breakfast sausage, these ingredients make a snack to remember.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast Sausage | 1 lb | Provides meat base |
| Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix | 11.36 oz | Adds signature flavor |
| Sharp Cheddar Cheese | 1¼ cups | Enhances cheesy taste |
| Cream Cheese | 4 oz | Creates creamy texture |
These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are perfect for any gathering. Whether it’s a game day event or a holiday celebration, they’re sure to impress. With just 30 minutes of preparation, you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready to go!
Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools
Making Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls is all about the right ingredients and tools. I’ll show you what you need to make these tasty bites.
Choosing the Perfect Sausage
The meat is key for these sausage balls. You can pick from different hot sausages based on what you like. I love using ground breakfast sausage, but you can try:
- Mild sausage
- Spicy sausage
- Sweet Italian sausage
Key Ingredients
For perfect uncooked sausage balls, you’ll need these ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix | 11 oz box |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 1½ cups |
| Pork sausage | 1 lb |
Essential Kitchen Tools
To make these sausage balls, you’ll need a few tools. Make sure you have a baking sheet, mixing bowls, and a good oven. The goal is to bake them until they’re golden brown. Having the right tools helps a lot.
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups
- Baking gloves
With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to make delicious Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. They’ll be a hit at any gathering!
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Making the perfect sausage ball recipe needs precision and care. I’ll show you how to prepare these tasty Red Lobster cheddar bay inspired bites. They’ll impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Mixing the Ingredients
Start by getting your ingredients ready. Feel free to try different sausages, but Italian sausage is great. In a big mixing bowl, mix the Red Lobster cheddar bay biscuit mix with ground breakfast sausage.
- Mix 1 pound of ground sausage
- Add 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Incorporate 2 ounces of softened cream cheese
- Pour in 2/3 cup of milk
- Mix until ingredients are evenly distributed
Forming and Sizing the Balls
Use clean hands to roll the mix into uniform balls. Aim for bite-sized balls about 1 inch in diameter. Each ball should be the same size for even cooking.
Baking Tips and Techniques
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the sausage balls about a half-inch apart. Have a paper towel ready to soak up any excess grease after baking.
- Preheat oven to 375°F
- Bake for 18-20 minutes
- Balls should be golden brown and cooked through
- Remove and let cool for a few minutes
- Blot with paper towel to remove excess oil
Pro tip: Your sausage balls are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F and look golden-brown.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
Knowing how to serve and store your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls is key. Serve them warm for the best taste and texture. You can make them ahead of time to save stress.
- Serve immediately after baking for maximum crispiness
- Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or marinara
- Use a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup
- Cool completely before storing in an airtight container
Using a stand mixer makes preparing sausage balls easier. You can also make extra batches. Store them in a freezer bag for easy use later. They stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days or up to 6 months in the freezer.
To reheat, place the balls on a sheet with parchment paper. Warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This keeps them crispy and flavorful.
| Storage Method | Duration | Recommended Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | 40°F or below |
| Freezer | Up to 6 months | 0°F or below |
Pro tip: Always label your storage container with the date. This way, you can enjoy your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls whenever you want!
Conclusion
As a home cook, I’ve found these Cheddar Bay Biscuit Sausage Balls to be a hit for game day. The recipe’s magic comes from its simplicity and the amazing taste of Red Lobster biscuit mix, sharp cheddar, and savory sausage.
These sausage balls are great for any party or quick snack. You can even make them without cream cheese to fit your taste and diet. This makes the recipe very versatile.
My best tip is to try different sausages and cheeses. The secret is to keep the right mix of ingredients and follow the baking steps we talked about. With just 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, you’ll have a dish that impresses everyone.
These sausage balls are perfect for game day or any casual gathering. They’ll become a favorite in your kitchen. So, get creative and enjoy making these tasty treats that taste like they’re from a restaurant.
FAQ – Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
What are Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls?
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a tasty appetizer inspired by Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuits. They mix breakfast sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix. This creates savory, bite-sized treats great for parties, game days, or casual gatherings.
Can I make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make sausage balls ahead of time. Store them in the fridge or freezer in a freezer bag or airtight container. Bake them when you’re ready, adding extra time if they’re cold or frozen.
Do I need to use cream cheese in the recipe?
Cream cheese is optional. Some recipes include it for extra moisture and richness. Others skip it. Try both to see which you like best.
What type of sausage works best for this recipe?
Breakfast sausage is traditional, but hot or Italian sausage can add a kick. Choose uncooked sausage that blends well with the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix and sharp cheddar cheese.
How do I ensure my sausage balls are crispy and not greasy?
For crispy, not greasy sausage balls, use parchment paper on your baking sheet. Place the balls on paper towels after baking. Bake at the right temperature and don’t overcrowd the sheet.
Can I freeze Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls?
Yes, you can freeze them uncooked or cooked. For uncooked, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Cooked sausage balls should cool before freezing. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.
What are some good dipping sauces for Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls?
Try them with ranch, marinara, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo. The garlic and herb mix in the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix pairs well with many sauces.
