Red Lobster's famous cheddar bay biscuits are legendary, but have you ever craved a savory, bite-sized alternative? Enter the realm of irresistible sausage balls, elevated with the creamy richness of cream cheese and a hint of that signature Red Lobster seafood spice. This recipe isn't an exact replica, but it captures the essence of Red Lobster's deliciousness, creating a party-perfect appetizer or satisfying snack.
This recipe focuses on achieving a flavor profile reminiscent of Red Lobster's renowned seafood seasonings, blending the familiar comfort of sausage balls with a unique twist. We’ll explore variations and answer common questions to help you perfect your own batch of these addictive treats.
What Makes These Sausage Balls Unique?
These aren't your grandma's sausage balls (though we love grandma's too!). We're adding a creamy, tangy element with cream cheese, which adds moisture and a delightful contrast to the savory sausage. More importantly, we’re infusing them with a blend of spices designed to evoke the familiar taste of Red Lobster's seafood-infused dishes. This subtle seafood hint elevates these simple sausage balls to a whole new level of deliciousness.
How to Make Red Lobster-Inspired Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or a blend), casings removed
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (this is key to the seafood flavor!)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for added freshness)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), thyme, and Old Bay seasoning. If using, fold in the green onions. Avoid overmixing; you want the mixture to hold its shape but remain slightly moist.
- Shape the balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Bake: Place the sausage balls onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. They're delicious warm or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Italian sausage, chorizo, or even a vegetarian sausage crumble would work well. Just be aware that the flavor profile will change.
How can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the sausage ball mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Shape the balls just before baking.
What can I serve these with?
These sausage balls are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with various dips, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy mustard.
Can I freeze these sausage balls?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked sausage balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
How do I adjust the spice level?
Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit it entirely.
Tips for Success
- Cook the sausage thoroughly: Make sure the sausage is fully cooked before adding it to the mixture to avoid any risk of undercooked meat.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can make the sausage balls tough.
- Use softened cream cheese: This will make it easier to incorporate into the mixture.
- Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend.
With its blend of savory sausage, creamy cream cheese, and a subtle nod to Red Lobster's iconic seafood flavors, this recipe delivers a truly unforgettable appetizer experience. Enjoy!
