If you love the cozy, buttery flavor of Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits, wait until you try these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. They take everything you adore about those biscuitsโcheesy, garlicky, tenderโand turn it into bite-sized, savory snacks that are perfect for parties, game days, or just a little indulgent treat for yourself.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Imagine golden, cheesy bites filled with rich sausage, soft cream cheese, and that classic Cheddar Bay seasoning, baking in the oven until puffed, golden, and irresistible. The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone into the kitchen, and one bite, trust me, youโll be hooked. This recipe is playful, approachable, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Recipe Origin
Inspired by the famous Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix, this recipe transforms a beloved classic into fun, handheld bites that are perfect for sharing. Think comfort food meets party snackโa combination thatโs hard to resist.
Kitchen Tools Youโll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Measuring cups and spoons
Why Youโll Love Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Versatile:
Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party finger food. Theyโre great for brunches, game-day spreads, or even packed in lunchboxes.
Flavor-Packed:
Cheesy, garlicky, and savory with a hint of sweetness from the biscuit mixโevery bite bursts with flavor.
Quick and Easy:
Mix, shape, bakeโdone! Minimal prep and maximum satisfaction.
Customizable:
Add extra spices, swap cheeses, or make them spicy with a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.
Crowd-Pleasing:
Kids and adults alike love these little bites. Theyโre soft, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients in Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: The base for that classic, buttery Cheddar Bay flavor.
Pork Sausage: Adds richness, moisture, and a savory punch.
Cream Cheese: Softens the texture and makes the balls extra creamy inside.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melty, sharp, and adds a golden, cheesy bite.
Milk: Helps bring the mixture together and keeps it tender.
Melted Butter: Adds extra buttery flavor and helps the tops brown beautifully.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix, sausage, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and milk. Stir until a cohesive, sticky dough forms.
Step 3: Shape the Sausage Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1โ2 inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Add Butter
Brush the tops of the sausage balls lightly with melted butter to enhance browning and flavor.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20โ25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These sausage balls are delicious warm, at room temperature, or even reheated the next day.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of honey mustard or ranch dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- Pair with a fresh salad or fruit tray for a balanced spread at brunch.
- Perfect for holiday appetizers, game-day snacks, or potlucks.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Prep Ahead: Form the balls in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Bake, cool, and freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Variations to Try
- Add chopped jalapeรฑos for a spicy kick.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a smoky, spicy twist.
- Mix in chopped herbs like parsley or chives for freshness.
- Make mini versions for bite-sized appetizer trays.
Additional Tips
- Donโt overmix the dough; lightly combine for tender sausage balls.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizing and even baking.
- Brush with butter before baking for that irresistible golden-brown top.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
A1: Yes! Keep in mind itโs leaner, so the sausage balls may be slightly drier; consider adding a little extra cream cheese or milk.
Q2: Can I make these gluten-free?
A2: You can use a gluten-free biscuit mix instead of the Cheddar Bay mix.
Q3: Can I make them ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! Form the balls and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q4: Can I freeze the unbaked mixture?
A4: Yes, shape into balls and freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen with a few extra minutes added to cooking time.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q6: Can I make mini sausage balls for parties?
A6: Yes! Reduce size to 1 inch for bite-sized appetizers.
Q7: Can I bake in a convection oven?
A7: Yes! Reduce baking time slightly and keep an eye on browning.
Q8: Are these sausage balls spicy?
A8: Not typically; you can add cayenne or chili flakes for heat.
Q9: Can I double the recipe?
A9: Absolutely! Just use a larger mixing bowl and bake in batches if needed.
Q10: Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of cheddar?
A10: Yes, mozzarella will make them milder and extra gooey.
Conclusion
These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are cheesy, buttery, and savory with just the right amount of richness. Perfect for holidays, game day, brunch, or just because, theyโre bite-sized comfort food that everyone will love. The combination of Cheddar Bay flavor and savory sausage makes them addictive, and once you make them, theyโll be requested again and again.
Grab your biscuit mix, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake the snack thatโs guaranteed to disappear fast!
PrintCheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 sausage balls
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are savory, cheesy bites made with sausage, cheddar, and cream cheese, all mixed with Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix for a soft, flavorful texture. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack.
Ingredients
Sausage Balls:
- 1 box Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix
- 1 lb Jimmy Dean pork sausage
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sausage, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and Red Lobster Biscuit mix. Add milk and melted butter, mixing until a uniform dough forms.
- Form Balls: Scoop and roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 20โ25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving warm. Optional: serve with dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized sausage balls.
- You can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free version.
- These can be made ahead and frozen before baking for convenience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 sausage balls
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg