Sausage Balls Without Bisquick

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This from-scratch version of sausage balls skips the boxed mix but keeps everything you love about the original: cheesy, meaty, bite-sized goodness. They’re easy to mix, freeze beautifully, and taste even better than the classic Bisquick version. You get complete control over the flavor and ingredients, and they’re perfect for make-ahead meals, snacks, or entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Ground pork sausage (mild or spicy)
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Milk (optional for moisture, if needed)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Add shredded cheddar cheese and toss to coat in the flour mixture.
4. Add the ground sausage to the bowl and mix until everything is well combined. You can use your hands or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment.
5. If the mixture feels too dry to form balls, add a tablespoon or two of milk to help bind it together.
6. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Let cool slightly and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 sausage balls.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: about 40 minutes

Variations

• Use spicy sausage for a bold, zesty flavor.
• Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for different cheesy goodness.
• Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a fresher flavor.
• Make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend and double-checking all labels.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–10 minutes or in the microwave for 20–30 seconds. To freeze, place unbaked sausage balls on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 25–30 minutes.

FAQs

What can I use instead of Bisquick?

A combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt works perfectly as a substitute.

Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep and refrigerate them overnight or freeze them before or after baking.

Do I need to cook the sausage before mixing?

No, the sausage cooks as the sausage balls bake in the oven.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture.

Why is my mixture too dry?

Some sausage brands are leaner. Add a splash of milk or a little more cheese to moisten the mixture.

Can I make these in a mini muffin tin?

Yes, it’s a great option to keep them uniform and easy to serve.

Are these sausage balls spicy?

They can be mild or spicy depending on the sausage you choose. Adjust to your taste.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely. This recipe scales up easily for parties or meal prep.

Are these good cold?

They’re best warm, but they also taste great cold or at room temperature for snacking.

Can I serve these with a dipping sauce?

Yes! Ranch, honey mustard, spicy mayo, or barbecue sauce all pair well.

Conclusion

Sausage Balls Without Bisquick are the perfect from-scratch alternative to a classic favorite. With simple pantry staples and a little mixing, you can create a batch of warm, cheesy, savory bites that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday party or just want a hearty snack, these sausage balls are sure to please every time.

Sausage Balls Without Bisquick

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Sausage Balls Without Bisquick are cheesy, savory bite-sized appetizers made completely from scratch using flour, baking powder, ground sausage, and cheddar cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or party snacking, they’re easy to make and freeze well for later.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 24 sausage balls
• Category: Appetizer, Snack, Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 tbsp baking powder
3. 1 tsp salt
4. 1 tsp garlic powder
5. 1 tsp onion powder
6. 1 lb ground pork sausage (mild or spicy)
7. 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
8. 2–3 tbsp milk (optional, if mixture is dry)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add shredded cheddar cheese and toss to coat in the flour mixture.
3. Add ground sausage and mix until fully combined, using hands or a stand mixer.
4. If mixture is too dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk to help bind.
5. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Cool slightly and serve warm.

Notes

1. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded for a creamier texture.
2. Use spicy sausage or add jalapeños/red pepper flakes for extra heat.
3. These can be made gluten-free with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
4. Freeze unbaked sausage balls for easy make-ahead appetizers.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 sausage balls
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 45mg