These Maple Sausage Balls are a tasty treat packed with flavor! Made with ground sausage, maple syrup, and a few simple ingredients, they’re perfect for breakfast or a snack.
They come together quickly, making them great for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings. Trust me, your friends will be asking for seconds—they’re that good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Breakfast Sausage: You can use either pork or turkey sausage based on your preference. Turkey sausage is a leaner option, but pork sausage has a rich flavor. If you’re vegetarian, look for plant-based sausage alternatives available in stores.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This adds a great flavor to the sausage balls. If you want something milder, go for mild cheddar or a cheese blend. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Baking Mix: Bisquick is popular here, but you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This can also be gluten-free if you use a suitable gluten-free flour mix.
Pure Maple Syrup: This gives the ball a nice sweetness. If you can’t find it, you might use honey or agave syrup, but the flavor will be different. I recommend using a light maple syrup for a more delicate sweetness.
How Do I Ensure My Sausage Balls are Flavorful and Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the flavor just right and ensuring they cook evenly is key for juicy sausage balls. Mixing the ingredients well helps the flavors blend, but don’t overmix—this can make them tough. Here are tips for perfect results:
- Preheat your oven adequately to ensure even cooking.
- Keep a uniform size when rolling the balls, so they bake at the same rate.
- Watch closely toward the end of baking; they can go from perfect to overdone quickly. They should be golden brown with a slight glaze from the syrup.
Enjoy your flavorful maple sausage balls, they’re always a hit!
How to Make Maple Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of baking time. So overall, you’ll be enjoying these savory and sweet sausage balls in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get a baking sheet ready by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. This helps prevent sticking!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, baking mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. This is where all the flavors come together!
3. Add Maple Syrup:
Drizzle the pure maple syrup over your mixture. This will give those sausage balls a delicious sweet touch! It’s time to mix it all up.
4. Combine Everything:
Using your hands or a spoon, carefully mix everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t be alarmed if it’s sticky; that’s how it’s supposed to be!
5. Roll into Balls:
Now, scoop out small portions of the mixture—about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons each—and roll them into balls. Don’t worry about them being perfect; they’ll taste great no matter what!
6. Place on Baking Sheet:
Put the rolled sausage balls on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 1 inch apart. This gives them room to cook evenly.
7. Bake Them:
Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. They should turn golden brown and have a nice caramelized glaze from the maple syrup.
8. Cool and Garnish:
When they are done baking, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. If you like, you can garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve these warm and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of your homemade maple sausage balls. They’re perfect for breakfast or as a tasty snack!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If sharp cheddar isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute it with mild cheddar, pepper jack for a bit of spice, or even mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just ensure it shreds well!
Can I Make These Sausage Balls Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free baking mix in place of the regular baking mix. There are many options available that work well, so you can still enjoy this delicious dish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Prepare the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage ball mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling and baking to ensure even cooking.
