These tasty Maple Sausage Balls are a fun mix of savory sausage and sweet maple syrup. They are easy to make and perfect for breakfast or snacks!
What’s not to love about bite-sized treats? I enjoy these with a side of fruit to balance the sweetness. Plus, they’re great for sharing at parties—if you can resist eating them all yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can use either pork or turkey sausage depending on your preference. If you want to keep it leaner, turkey sausage is a great alternative! I personally prefer pork for its flavor, but both are tasty.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese adds a wonderful sharp flavor that complements the sweetness of maple. If you want a milder taste, use Monterey Jack or even mozzarella. Occasionally, I like to mix in some pepper jack for a little spice!
Baking Mix: Most recipes call for Bisquick, but you can make your own by mixing flour, baking powder, and salt. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free baking mixes or almond flour as a substitute.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives these balls a delicious sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, pancake syrup can work, but it won’t have the same rich flavor. Honey or agave syrup can also be alternatives.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Shaped Sausage Balls?
Shaping the sausage balls correctly is key to their texture. Here’s the best way to do it:
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly; this helps everything bind together.
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form uniform balls, about 1 inch in size.
- Try to keep the balls uniform, so they cook evenly.
- Lay them out on your baking sheet with space in between to allow for expansion during baking.
Taking time with this step pays off with each bite being consistent and delicious! Enjoy your cooking time! 😊
How to Make Delicious Maple Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to bake. You’ll have warm and delicious Maple Sausage Balls ready in about 40 minutes total—perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the breakfast sausage, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and baking mix. This is where the yummy flavors begin to come together!
3. Add the Sweetness and Spices:
Next, pour in the maple syrup along with the garlic powder and black pepper. These will add a lovely sweetness and flavor to your sausage balls. Mix everything together thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until it’s well combined.
4. Shape the Balls:
Now, it’s time to form the sausage balls! Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls using your hands. This is a fun step, and you can easily adjust the size according to your preference.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the rolled sausage balls onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about an inch apart. This allows them to cook evenly. Bake them in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once they are done baking, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. For an extra touch, you can garnish them with fresh parsley. This adds a nice pop of color and a hint of freshness!
Now, enjoy these warm Maple Sausage Balls, maybe with a drizzle of maple syrup for that extra sweet touch! They’re perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Happy cooking! 😊
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just make sure it’s shredded for easy mixing!
How Can I Store Leftover Sausage Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Can I Freeze Maple Sausage Balls?
Yes, you can freeze them! After they’ve cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Maple Sausage Balls?
These sausage balls are great on their own, but you can pair them with fresh fruit, a side of maple syrup for dipping, or even a light salad for a more balanced meal. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a tasty snack at any time!
