If you’ve ever loved the irresistible flavors of Red Lobster’s biscuits and imagined them wrapped around savory sausage, then you are in for a treat with this Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe. It combines the buttery, garlicky goodness of cheddar bay biscuit mix with creamy cheese and hearty sausage to create bite-sized morsels that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a cozy snack, these sausage balls bring comfort, flavor, and a bit of fun to your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is refreshingly simple, with just a few ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Every component plays a key role, whether it’s building that signature garlicky Cheddar Bay taste or adding the perfect creamy and cheesy texture.
- Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (11.36 oz): The star ingredient that imparts the classic buttery garlic flavor and fluffy biscuit texture.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): Adds smoothness and richness to bind the mixture and keep the sausage balls wonderfully moist.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 1/4 cups): Brings sharp, melty cheesiness that complements the sausage and biscuit mix perfectly.
- Uncooked Sausage (1 pound): The hearty protein foundation that makes these sausage balls savory and satisfying.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by setting your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s nice and hot for baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze—this little step saves you time and keeps those golden sausage balls perfect.
Step 2: Mix the Biscuit Base
Grab the biscuit mix along with the seasoning packet, which is absolutely crucial for that iconic buttery garlic flavor. Combine them in a large bowl to make sure every bite gets that delicious seasoning.
Step 3: Cream the Cheese
In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. This is what will help bind everything together, lending a luscious texture that keeps your sausage balls tender inside.
Step 4: Combine Sausage and Cheeses
Add the uncooked sausage directly into the cream cheese and mix thoroughly. Then stir in the seasoned biscuit mix and shredded cheddar cheese. Everything should be well combined into a cohesive, slightly sticky dough that’s ready to be shaped.
Step 5: Form the Sausage Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, portion the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls. Place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet—they’ll puff up slightly as they bake, so give them a little room.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let your sausage balls bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown on the outside and the sausage inside is fully cooked. The aroma alone is worth the wait!
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe
Garnishes
These sausage balls are fantastic on their own, but if you want to add a bit of flair, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top after baking to add brightness and color. A light brush of melted butter mixed with garlic powder right out of the oven elevates the flavor closer to the original Cheddar Bay biscuits.
Side Dishes
Serving these sausage balls alongside a fresh green salad or a tangy coleslaw adds a crisp contrast that balances their rich cheesiness. For a heartier meal, pair them with roasted veggies or mashed potatoes to create a comforting spread that pleases every appetite.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make them party-ready? Serve the sausage balls with different dipping sauces like spicy mustard, ranch, or a creamy horseradish dip. Arrange them on a tiered platter or in cute little paper cups for easy, fun finger food that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover sausage balls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days and remain just as tasty when reheated gently.
Freezing
This Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe also freezes wonderfully. Arrange uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to indulge, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your sausage balls in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid the microwave if you can, as reheating in the oven preserves their crispy exterior while warming the interior perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While classic pork sausage works great, you can try spicy sausage for a kick or even turkey sausage for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that flavor and fat content may vary slightly.
Is the biscuit mix gluten-free?
The Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix used here typically contains gluten, so this recipe is not gluten-free unless you find a gluten-free biscuit mix alternative.
Can I make these sausage balls dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, you’d need to substitute cream cheese and cheddar cheese with non-dairy alternatives. The texture might change slightly, but it’s a fun experiment if you have dietary restrictions.
What’s the best way to get the sausage balls crispy?
Using a hot oven and spacing the balls properly on the baking sheet helps them crisp up nicely. Also, brushing them with a little melted butter before baking can enhance browning and flavor.
How many sausage balls does this recipe make?
This Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe yields about 15 sausage balls of 1-inch diameter, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a tasty snack over a few days.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the comforting, cheesy, savory delight of this Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe. Whether you’re whipping these up for a casual family snack or impressing friends at your next gathering, they’re sure to become a beloved favorite. So grab your ingredients, dive into the fun of mixing and baking, and savor every bite of these irresistible sausage balls!
Print
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 15 sausage balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a savory appetizer combining the signature buttery garlic flavor of Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix with creamy cheese and spicy sausage. These bite-sized, golden-brown snacks are perfect for parties, gatherings, or anytime you crave a cheesy, flavorful treat that’s easy to prepare and bake.
Ingredients
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Ingredients
- 1 (11.36 oz) Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (including seasoning packet)
- 1 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 pound sausage, uncooked
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Combine Biscuit Mix: In a mixing bowl, add the Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix along with its seasoning packet, which provides the distinctive buttery garlic flavor.
- Prepare Cream Cheese: Soften the cream cheese and mix it until smooth to ensure it blends well with other ingredients.
- Mix Sausage with Cream Cheese: Add the uncooked sausage to the softened cream cheese and combine thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors and consistency.
- Add Biscuit Mix and Cheddar: Incorporate the biscuit mix and shredded cheddar cheese into the sausage and cream cheese mixture. Mix everything well until fully combined into a uniform dough-like mixture.
- Form Sausage Balls: Portion the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls using your hands or a small scoop. Place the sausage balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the sausage is completely cooked through.
Notes
- Use the seasoning packet included in the biscuit mix to achieve the authentic Cheddar Bay flavor.
- For easier shaping, chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes before forming balls.
- Ensure sausage is cooked thoroughly by checking the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- These sausage balls can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile snack or appetizer.
- Optional: Serve with a dipping sauce like ranch or spicy mustard for added flavor.
