Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage Balls

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Introduction

Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage Balls are the perfect party appetizer, combining spicy sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and the kick of jalapeños. These bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and versatile, making them a favorite for gatherings of all kinds. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or an elegant soirée, these sausage balls are sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground sausage (spicy or mild)
    • Tip: Choose a high-quality sausage for the best flavor. Spicy sausage adds an extra kick, while mild sausage keeps it more kid-friendly.
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
    • Tip: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese. You can also mix in other cheeses like pepper jack for additional flavor.

Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
    • Tip: This ingredient helps to bind the sausage balls and gives them a slight bread-like texture.
  • 1/4 cup milk
    • Tip: Use whole milk for a richer taste, but any milk (including plant-based) will work.
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
    • Tip: For less heat, remove the seeds and membrane. For more spice, add another jalapeño or leave some seeds in.
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
    • Tip: Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness. You can substitute with regular paprika if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • Tip: Adjust to taste. Fresh minced garlic can also be used for a stronger garlic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • Tip: Like garlic powder, this can be adjusted to taste. Finely minced fresh onion can be used as well.

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Tip: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking the sausage balls to ensure even cooking.

Mix Ingredients:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, baking mix, milk, chopped jalapeño, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.
    • Detailed Step:
      • Start by placing the ground sausage in the bowl.
      • Add the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage.
      • Pour in the baking mix evenly over the sausage and cheese.
      • Add the milk, which will help to moisten the mixture.
      • Finely chop the jalapeño and add it to the bowl. Ensure that the jalapeño is evenly distributed throughout the mixture to avoid any overly spicy bites.
      • Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
      • Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, mix all the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined. The mixture should be cohesive and hold together when pressed into a ball.

Form Balls:

  1. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    • Detailed Step:
      • Pinch off a small amount of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a ball about 1 inch in diameter.
      • Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them to allow for even cooking.
      • If the mixture is too sticky, dampen your hands slightly with water or lightly coat them with a bit of oil to make rolling easier.

Bake:

  1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
    • Detailed Step:
      • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
      • Bake the sausage balls for 20 minutes, then check their color and doneness.
      • They should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink in the center.
      • If they need more time, continue baking for an additional 5 minutes and check again.
      • Once cooked, remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

FAQs

How do I store Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage Balls to keep them fresh?

To keep your sausage balls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. When ready to serve again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore their crispy texture.

Can I make Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage Balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sausage balls ahead of time. Prepare them as directed, then place the uncooked balls on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag. When ready to bake, place the frozen balls on a baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.

What are some variations of Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage Balls?

There are many ways to vary this recipe. Try using different types of cheese like pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile. You can also add chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh twist. Experiment with different types of sausage, such as chorizo or Italian sausage, to change up the taste. For a healthier version, consider using turkey sausage or chicken sausage.

Are Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage Balls suitable for freezing?

Yes, these sausage balls freeze very well. To freeze, place the uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a resealable plastic bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, ensuring they are heated through.

Conclusion

Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage Balls are a crowd-pleaser with their perfect combination of spicy, cheesy, and savory flavors. Easy to prepare and versatile, they can be made ahead of time and stored for future use. Try making these for your next party, and don’t forget to share your experiences with us!

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