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I discovered these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls when I needed a quick appetizer for an impromptu game night. Using Red Lobster's Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix was a total game changer. Just four ingredients and 30 minutes later I had these incredible bites that disappeared faster than I could serve them. The outside gets this perfect crispy crust while the inside stays tender and cheesy. My friends now request them for every gathering.
Simple Yet Amazing
What I love most about this recipe is how uncomplicated it is. With just four ingredients the prep work is minimal but the flavor payoff is huge. The sausage balls come out crispy on the outside with this wonderful cheesy center that just melts in your mouth. They work for any occasion from quick breakfasts to party appetizers. That signature Red Lobster biscuit taste takes these from good to absolutely fantastic.
What You'll Need
- Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: This mix brings all those incredible seasonings we love.
- Ground sausage: Jimmy Dean is my go to but any raw pork sausage works great.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Grate it fresh for the best melting texture.
- Cream cheese: Make sure it's nice and soft before mixing.
Kitchen Time
- Mix it all up:
- In a big bowl combine your biscuit mix seasoning packet raw sausage freshly grated cheddar and softened cream cheese. I use my hands to mix everything really well.
- Shape your bites:
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. I love using my cookie scoop for this it makes them all the same size.
- Time to bake:
- Pop them in your preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until they're golden brown and smell amazing.
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My Secret Tips
After making these countless times I've learned a few tricks. A cookie scoop is your best friend for perfectly sized balls. Sometimes I add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when we want extra kick. Swapping the cream cheese for pimento cheese creates an amazing Southern twist. My favorite tip brush them with melted butter right when they come out of the oven. For cheese lovers try hiding a tiny cube of cheese in the center of each ball.
Ways to Enjoy
These little bites are so versatile. We love them warm alongside scrambled eggs for breakfast or paired with a cozy bowl of soup for lunch. Set out some ranch dressing cheese sauce or spicy sriracha aioli for dipping. They're absolutely perfect on charcuterie boards too. Every time I bring them to potlucks or game day parties people crowd around the plate.
Keeping Them Fresh
You can keep these tasty bites in the fridge for about 4 days just make sure they're in a good sealed container. If you want to make them ahead pop them in the freezer they'll stay good for 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them again warm them up at 350°F for about 10 minutes. I like to brush them with a little butter and cover with foil to keep them moist. Just remember to let frozen ones thaw overnight in the fridge.
Switch Things Up
Play around with different seasonings sometimes I add extra garlic powder paprika or dried herbs. Mix up your cheese choices Pepper Jack adds a nice kick. If you're watching calories turkey or chicken sausage works beautifully too. My gluten-sensitive friends love when I make these with gluten-free biscuit mix they taste just as amazing.
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Make Them Special
Get creative with these little bites. Try stuffing them with cream cheese or spicy peppers before baking. Thread them onto skewers with colorful veggies for fancy appetizers. I love setting out different dipping sauces like honey mustard or garlic butter so everyone can customize their experience. The possibilities are endless and that's what makes this recipe so fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the balls and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them raw for up to 3 months, then bake straight from frozen.
- → What type of sausage works best?
- Regular breakfast sausage works great, but you can use hot sausage for extra kick. Italian sausage can also work if removed from casings.
- → Can I use a different biscuit mix?
- While Cheddar Bay mix gives these their distinct flavor, you can use regular biscuit mix plus some garlic powder and cheese. The texture and taste will be different though.
- → Why did my sausage balls come out dry?
- Make sure your cream cheese is properly softened and don't overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can make them tough and dry.
- → How should I store leftovers?
- Store cooled sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.