Paula Deen Sausage Balls

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If you love Southern comfort food, these Paula Deen Sausage Balls are a must-try. Soft, cheesy, and packed with savory flavor, this classic appetizer has been a favorite at brunches, holiday gatherings, and family parties for decades. Best of all, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. With a golden, crispy exterior and tender, cheesy center, these sausage balls are the perfect bite-sized snack for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want a quick, satisfying snack, this recipe delivers a crowd-pleasing flavor that’s hard to resist. Paired with a creamy mustard-mayo dip, they elevate any appetizer spread and are a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare: From mixing to baking, these sausage balls are ready in less than 30 minutes.
• Cheesy and savory: Sharp cheddar cheese and breakfast sausage create a rich, indulgent flavor.
• Perfect for entertaining: Bite-sized and easy to serve, they’re ideal for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings.
• Customizable: Swap in turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or experiment with different cheeses.
• Pairs well with dips: Serve with a simple mustard-mayo dip or your favorite sauce for extra flavor.

Ingredients Breakdown

Each ingredient in Paula Deen’s sausage balls contributes to the perfect balance of flavor and texture:

• All-purpose baking mix: Acts as the base, binding the sausage and cheese together while keeping the balls tender.
• Breakfast sausage: Chicken, turkey, or pork sausage adds savory flavor and protein. Choose a flavored sausage for a subtle twist.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Provides richness and a melty, gooey center that pairs perfectly with the sausage.
• Black pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances the savory notes without overpowering the dish.
• Mayonnaise and yellow mustard: Combine to make a creamy, tangy dip that complements the richness of the sausage balls.

Tips and Tricks

• Use room-temperature ingredients: Cheese and sausage mix more evenly when not too cold.
• Uniform size: Roll balls to about 1 inch for even cooking and a professional look.
• Avoid overcrowding: Leave space between the balls on the baking sheet to ensure they bake evenly.
• Cheese variations: Try smoked cheddar or a blend of cheeses for an extra depth of flavor.
• Preheat the oven fully: Ensures that the sausage balls cook evenly and get a golden exterior.

Variations and Customizations

1. Meat alternatives: Swap pork sausage for turkey, chicken, or even spicy Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
2. Cheese blends: Use a combination of cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda to add complexity.
3. Add herbs or spices: Mix in paprika, cayenne pepper, or fresh parsley to elevate the flavor.
4. Baked vs. Air-fried: Air-fry the sausage balls for a slightly crispier exterior with less oil.
5. Mini bites: Make smaller ¾-inch balls for cocktail parties or as kid-friendly snacks.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with a tangy mustard dip or ranch dressing for a classic combination.
• Pair with fresh fruit or vegetable sticks to balance the richness.
• These sausage balls are perfect alongside mimosas or sparkling cider for brunch gatherings.
• Great with southern-style sides like coleslaw, biscuits, or cornbread.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store cooled sausage balls in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.

Popular Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the balls in advance and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.

What’s the best sausage to use?
Any breakfast sausage works—pork, chicken, or turkey. Spicy or flavored sausages add extra depth.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose baking mix with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Caroline

Paula Deen Sausage Balls

Classic Southern-style sausage balls made with savory breakfast sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and baking mix. Perfect for parties, holidays, and make-ahead appetizers—served with a simple mustard-mayo dip.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 30 sausage balls

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Southern

Calories: 145

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups all-purpose baking mix
• 1 lb breakfast sausage (chicken or turkey)
• 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

Equipment

• baking sheet
• mixing bowls
• parchment paper

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. In a large bowl, combine breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
3. Stir in the baking mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheets, spacing about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown and firm.
6. While sausage balls bake, whisk together mayonnaise and yellow mustard in a small bowl.
7. Allow sausage balls to cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with the dipping sauce.

Notes

For extra crispness, lightly brush tops with olive oil before baking. These sausage balls freeze well—reheat directly from frozen. The dipping sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead.

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