Sausage balls are a beloved appetizer or snack, known for their savory, comforting flavor and satisfying texture. This recipe elevates the classic sausage ball by incorporating stove top stuffing mix, adding a delightful herby depth and a pleasingly crumbly interior. Forget everything you thought you knew about basic sausage balls; this recipe is a game-changer!
What Makes These Sausage Balls Special?
These aren't your grandma's sausage balls (unless your grandma is a culinary genius!). The addition of stove top stuffing mix introduces a whole new layer of flavor and texture. The herbs and seasonings in the stuffing blend beautifully with the savory sausage, creating a complex and irresistible taste. The stuffing mix also helps to create a lighter, more crumbly texture compared to traditional sausage balls made solely with biscuit mix.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your preference!)
- 1 box (6 ounces) stove top stuffing mix (herb-seasoned is recommended)
- 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra tang)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, stuffing mix, milk, egg, and cheddar cheese (if using). Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and a slightly sticky dough forms.
- Shape the Balls: Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Make sure your hands are slightly wet to prevent the mixture from sticking.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. They are delicious warm or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about making sausage balls with stove top stuffing, along with helpful answers:
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While breakfast sausage is traditional, you can experiment with other types of sausage, such as Italian sausage or chorizo. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will change.
Can I add other ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to get creative. Some delicious additions include chopped onions, bell peppers, jalapenos, or different types of cheese.
How long do these sausage balls last?
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sausage ball dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great time-saver for parties or gatherings.
What kind of stuffing mix is best?
Herb-seasoned stuffing mix works best, as the herbs complement the sausage beautifully. However, you can experiment with other varieties, like seasoned or onion varieties.
Are these sausage balls gluten-free?
No, these sausage balls are not gluten-free due to the presence of the stove top stuffing mix. To make gluten-free sausage balls, you'll need to use a gluten-free stuffing mix or alternative recipe.
This recipe offers a fun and flavorful twist on a classic appetizer. The combination of savory sausage and herby stuffing mix creates a truly irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
