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Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls happened in my kitchen one morning when I needed a fast bite for a group breakfast. Mixing up sausage, two cheeses, and that famous Red Lobster biscuit mix turned out way better than I'd hoped. You get that crunchy bite outside, then a soft, cheesy middle. Honestly, now my friends always bug me to bring these if I'm coming over in the morning.
Irresistible Snack Pick
The thing I like best about these cheesy bites is how quick they are to whip up. Seriously, just four basic things and you're done! They taste like you spent ages cooking, but you'll be out of the kitchen fast. Perfect for anything from game night to sleepy weekend mornings. Plus, they don't break the bank and people eat them up before you can blink.
What to Grab
- Ground sausage: Go for the fresh, uncooked kind whatever brand you like works just fine.
- Cream cheese: It's loads easier if it's soft when you start mixing.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is awesome here shred it yourself for best flavor.
- Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: The magic packet brings all that flavor we love.
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Time to Get Cooking
- Start baking:
- Heat the oven up to 350°F first. Let it get hot while you mix everything.
- Roll your dough balls:
- Scoop the mixture into one-inch balls. I like using a cookie scoop makes things so much faster and the bites come out all the same size.
- Mix it all together:
- Dump biscuit mix, flavor packet, sausage, and both cheeses in a big bowl. Dive in with your hands and mix until it's all stuck together.
Tips From My Kitchen
Here's what I've picked up making these loads of times: that cookie scoop really is a must for even bites every single time. Sometimes I stir in chopped jalapeños for an extra punch. My kids get hyped when I tuck a cheese cube right in the middle melts awesome inside. When they pop out of the oven, I like to give them a quick brush with melted butter that little step makes them shine.
Fun Ways to Serve
These bites seriously fit anywhere. They're awesome with eggs for breakfast or tossed in lunch boxes. When guests come by, I put out some honey mustard, ranch, or cheesy dip whatever we've got. I’ll eat them for holiday brunch, too. I made a double batch for the last game day—should’ve tripled it, they vanished super quick.
Storing Leftovers
Stash any extras in a sealed container in the fridge they'll last about four days. I sometimes make extra to freeze just freeze them on a tray first, then toss them in a freezer bag. Want more later? Pop them back in a 350°F oven for around 10 minutes. I usually brush them with butter and put foil on top so they stay soft.
Change It Up
Looking for a twist? Try using Pepper Jack for some heat instead of cheddar. Sprinkle in garlic powder, or throw in your go-to herbs—I've tried fresh thyme and loved it. Sometimes my neighbor stirs in chopped pecans for a nutty finish. Need gluten-free? Just grab a gluten-free biscuit mix everything else stays the same. Part of the fun's in trying something out of the box.
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Go Fancy if You Want
Feeling creative? Skewer them with bright veggies for party trays it looks really cool and fun to eat. Or slice them up and make cute mini sliders—my kids can't get enough of those. The other day, I drizzled them with spicy honey and everyone flipped out. Whether it's a crowd or just your crew, these little bites always hit the spot. Every new batch gives you a chance to mix things up any way you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can roll them out and keep them chilled for up to a day in the fridge. Or stash them in the freezer, unbaked, for a few months—just bake them straight from frozen when you want some.
- → What type of sausage works best?
Mild breakfast sausage is best, but you can pick a spicy one if that's your thing. If you're using sausage links, remember to take off the casing first.
- → Can I use a different biscuit mix?
You can switch the Cheddar Bay mix out for regular biscuit mix if needed. It'll taste different since you'll lose that savory seasoning flavor.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Pop any extras in a sealed container. They'll keep fine in the fridge for three days. Heat them back up in the microwave or a low oven until they're warm through.
- → Why are my sausage balls dry?
Soften up your cream cheese well and try not to mix the dough too much. Mixing too long will dry them out fast.