Paula Deen Sausage Balls: 5 Irresistible Bites to Savor

Ah, Paula Deen Sausage Balls – the ultimate crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve whipped these up for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just cozy nights in. There’s something magical about these little bites of cheesy goodness, filled with savory sausage and just the right amount of spice. Every time I take them out of the oven, the aroma fills the house, and it’s like an instant invitation for everyone to gather around the kitchen. Trust me, you’ll want to keep the recipe handy because they disappear faster than you can say “yum!”

My love for these sausage balls started when I was a kid. There was this annual family reunion where my Aunt Linda would show up with a platter overflowing with them. I remember sneaking a few before the meal even started, and honestly, I still do that! They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a game day party or just need an easy appetizer for unexpected guests. What’s great is how simple they are to make – you’ll be the star of your next gathering with just a little bit of effort. So, let’s jump right into making these delicious Paula Deen Sausage Balls!

Ingredients List

• 2 cups baking mix
• 1 pound ground sausage
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon mustard

How to Prepare Paula Deen Sausage Balls

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s get that oven fired up! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating, grab a baking sheet and lightly grease it with some non-stick spray. You want those sausage balls to slide right off when they’re done, trust me! If you have parchment paper on hand, you can use that too – it makes cleanup a breeze.

Mixing Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the baking mix, ground sausage, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and ground black pepper. Now, here’s where the magic happens – use your hands to mix everything together! It might feel a bit messy, but that’s part of the fun. Get in there and squish it all together until every ingredient is evenly distributed. You want to make sure that cheesy goodness is throughout every bite!

Shaping the Balls

Once your mixture is well combined, it’s time to shape them into balls! Grab a small handful of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form 1-inch balls. Don’t worry if your hands get a little sticky – it’s all part of the process! Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one so they have room to grow. It’s like giving them their own little stage to shine on!

Baking Process

Now, pop those beauties in the oven and let them bake for about 18–20 minutes. Halfway through, give them a gentle flip to ensure they get that gorgeous golden brown color all around. Keep an eye on them – you’ll know they’re done when they look perfectly golden and the aroma fills your kitchen. You want them to be cooked through but still tender, so a light touch will help you gauge that perfect doneness!

Preparing the Mustard Dip

While your sausage balls are baking, let’s whip up that delicious mustard dip. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and mustard until smooth. This dip adds an extra zing and complements the savory flavor of the sausage balls perfectly. You can adjust the mustard to your taste – add a little more if you like it spicy! Serve it alongside the warm sausage balls, and you’re ready to dig in!

Tips for Success

Let’s talk about a few handy tips to make your Paula Deen Sausage Balls the absolute best they can be! First off, if you find the mixture a bit too dry or hard to shape, don’t hesitate to add 1–2 tablespoons of milk. It’ll loosen things up just right and make rolling those balls a breeze.

If you want that perfect crispiness on the outside, lightly brush the sausage balls with olive oil before they go into the oven. This little step ensures a beautifully browned exterior that’s simply irresistible. Oh, and make sure you give them plenty of space on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steaming instead of that glorious browning we’re after!

Now, if you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating in the oven or air fryer helps retain their delightful texture. Just warm them up at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, and they’ll be good as new! These sausage balls also freeze wonderfully, so don’t shy away from making a double batch for those last-minute cravings or surprise guests!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of these delightful Paula Deen Sausage Balls! Each serving, which is about two sausage balls, packs a flavorful punch while still being a crowd favorite. Here’s the estimated breakdown:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. So, if you’re watching your intake, it’s always a good idea to double-check the labels on your sausage and cheese. But regardless of the numbers, I promise these little bites are worth every single calorie!

FAQ Section

Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these Paula Deen Sausage Balls ahead of time, and they’re perfect for making in advance. Just roll them into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to make them even further in advance, you can freeze them! Just place the uncooked balls in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw them. Just pop them straight into the oven, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute for the sausage?

If you’re looking for alternatives to sausage, you’ve got options! For a healthier twist, try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage; they still pack a punch of flavor but are leaner. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or even some finely chopped mushrooms, onions, and spices to maintain that savory taste. Just keep in mind that the texture might slightly differ, but they’ll still be delicious!

How do I know when the sausage balls are done?

Great question! You’ll know your sausage balls are done when they’re beautifully golden brown and have a nice, firm texture. A good way to check is to look for them pulling away slightly from the edges of the baking sheet – that’s a good sign! Also, give them a gentle poke; they should feel firm and spring back slightly. If you want to be extra sure, you can insert a toothpick into the center, and it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs. Happy baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these sausage balls in no time!
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of savory sausage and sharp cheddar cheese creates a flavor explosion that keeps everyone coming back for more.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, game day, or a casual get-together, these sausage balls are always a hit!
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the ingredients! You can use different types of cheese or add in your favorite spices for a unique twist.
• Make Ahead and Freeze: Prepare a double batch and freeze them for those last-minute cravings or surprise guests. They reheat beautifully!
• Great for Sharing: These bite-sized treats are perfect for passing around at parties, ensuring everyone gets a taste of that cheesy goodness!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your Paula Deen Sausage Balls, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fantastic ideas to elevate your appetizer game and create a complete feast:

• Fresh Veggie Platter: Serve the sausage balls alongside a colorful platter of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. It adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the sausage balls.
• Dipping Sauces: Besides the mustard dip, consider offering a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for those who like a kick!
• Cheese Board: Pair the sausage balls with an assortment of cheeses, crackers, and some sliced cured meats. This makes for a delightful charcuterie experience that’s perfect for entertaining.
• Mini Slider Buns: If you want to take it up a notch, serve the sausage balls in mini slider buns with a dollop of your favorite sauce for a fun twist. They make for a hearty bite that’s still finger-friendly!
• Fruit Salad: Add a touch of sweetness with a light fruit salad or a fruit platter. The natural sugars create a lovely contrast to the savory sausage balls.

These suggestions will not only enhance the flavor experience but also impress your guests with thoughtful pairings. Enjoy the deliciousness!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Let’s talk about how to keep those delicious Paula Deen Sausage Balls fresh and ready for your next snack attack! If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare but can happen), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled down before sealing them up so you don’t trap any moisture, which can make them soggy.

When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty bites again, I recommend reheating them in the oven or air fryer. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sausage balls on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes or until they’re warmed through and that lovely cheesy aroma fills your kitchen again. If you’re using an air fryer, just pop them in at the same temperature for about 5-7 minutes – they’ll come out crispy and delicious!

Oh, and if you want to prep ahead for a party, you can freeze these sausage balls before baking! Just roll them into balls and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag, and they’ll be good for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake them, there’s no need to thaw; just pop them in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Easy, right? With these storage tips, you’ll always have a stash of these crowd-pleasers on hand!

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