Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a beloved snack that combines the classic flavors of buttery, garlicky Cheddar Bay biscuits with savory sausage and sharp cheddar cheese. These bite-sized treats are irresistibly cheesy, fluffy, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for parties, brunches, or anytime you want a comforting, easy-to-make appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick snack, this recipe offers a simple, crowd-pleasing option that comes together in under 30 minutes with everyday ingredients. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these warm, golden sausage balls that bring Southern-inspired goodness to your table.
Why You’ll Love Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Looking for a quick, irresistible snack? You’re in the right place:
- They combine Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix with sausage for bold, buttery flavor everyone loves.
- Only five ingredients and less than 30 minutes from prep to plate.
- Perfect for meal prep, parties, holidays, and tailgates.
- Easy to customize with different cheeses or spicy sausage.
- Stay tender and moist thanks to added cream cheese.
- Great for finger-food snacking or dipping.
Craving more comfort food ideas? Check out our Broccoli Cheddar Soup for another cheesy crowd favorite
Ingredients
- 1 (11.36 oz) Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (includes seasoning packet)
- 1 lb ground sausage (mild or hot, uncooked)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 ¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: ½ tsp smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, biscuit mix (and seasoning packet), and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly by hand or mixer.
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and space on baking sheet.
- Bake 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let cool slightly and serve with your favorite dip.
For more hearty recipes, try pairing these with White Chicken Chili on game day.
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
These bite-sized treats shine at brunches, parties, and casual dinners. Serve them:
- Warm with ranch, honey mustard, or remoulade dipping sauce.
- Alongside Creamy Potato Soup for a cozy meal
- On a party platter with pickled veggies and cheese cubes.
- As a savory breakfast with scrambled eggs or fruit.
- Paired with mac and cheese or mashed potatoes for a complete comfort food spread.
Their chewy, cheesy center and golden exterior make them irresistible straight from the oven. Add a sprinkle of parsley or extra cheddar for a festive finish. These sausage balls pair beautifully with a range of sides—think creamy soups, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads.
How to Store Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Preserve their tender texture and vibrant flavor by storing properly:
- Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze uncooked or cooked sausage balls in a ziptop bag. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 7–10 minutes to restore crispness.
- Microwave in 30-second bursts for a quick snack (though texture is best from the oven).
- Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain flavor and freshness.
Meal prepping? Make the mixture and roll into balls ahead of time. Chill or freeze to bake fresh for any occasion.
Tips to Make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
For foolproof results and extra flavor:
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for smooth mixing.
- Mix by hand or use a stand mixer for even blending.
- Incorporate the seasoning packet for that signature garlic-herb kick.
- A cookie scoop helps ensure uniform size and even baking.
- If you prefer spice, choose hot sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- Don’t overbake—watch for golden brown color and firm texture.
- Freeze rolled balls before baking for easy prep on busy days.
- Experiment with swapping cheeses—try mozzarella or pepper jack for new flavor combos.
- For lighter sausage balls, use turkey sausage and reduced-fat cheese.
Variations of Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Personalize your sausage balls with these creative twists:
- Swap hot Italian sausage for a spicier bite.
- Replace cheddar with colby jack, gouda, or pepper jack cheese.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for depth.
- Mix in chopped chives, scallions, or parsley for freshness.
- Fold in cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky-savory note.
- Substitute cream cheese with ricotta for a milder, creamy texture.
- Make them gluten-free by using an alternative biscuit mix.
- Top with shredded cheese or herbs before baking for a pretty finish.
- Serve with different dips—spicy queso, barbecue sauce, or classic ranch.
FAQs
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes! You can roll the mixture into balls and refrigerate or freeze. Bake when ready for fresh sausage balls.
Why did my sausage balls turn out dry?
Overbaking or using reduced-fat cheese can cause dryness. Ensure proper baking time and ingredient ratios.
Can I use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage?
Absolutely! Adjust spices as needed, as turkey or meatless sausage may have less fat.
What dips go best with Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls?
Ranch, honey mustard, barbecue, or remoulade! For a meal, serve with creamy soups or chili.
Final Thoughts
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls deliver a crowd-pleasing bite, merging the classic biscuit with savory sausage and cheese in simple, delicious harmony. They make entertaining and weeknight snacks easy, and their customizability ensures everyone finds a favorite version.
Follow me on Facebook and Pinterest where I share cozy, easy-to-make baking recipes just like this one.
Print
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 30 balls 1x
Description
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a party-perfect savory snack with Red Lobster biscuit mix, sausage, cheddar, and cream cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 (11.36 oz) Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix
- 1 lb uncooked ground sausage
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in sausage, cheddar cheese, biscuit mix, and optional spices.
3. Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange on baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and cooked through.
5. Let cool and serve with dipping sauce.
Notes
Use hot sausage and extra pepper flakes for more spice.
Freeze uncooked sausage balls for make-ahead convenience.
Pair with ranch or mustard dip for parties.
Substitute cream cheese with ricotta for a milder taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 22mg