If you are searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that blends savory, cheesy, and crunchy flavors in every bite, then this Stuffing Balls with Sausage Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside bites combine the heartiness of sausage and bacon with the comforting goodness of stuffing and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for holiday gatherings, game days, or simply whenever you crave a warm and indulgent snack, this recipe turns simple ingredients into an irresistible treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting these sausage stuffing balls requires just a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the savory punch of breakfast sausage to the melty cheesiness of cheddar, every element enhances this dish in a unique and delicious way.
- Ground breakfast sausage: Adds juicy, flavorful meatiness that is the heart of these balls.
- Bacon (8 slices, cooked and diced): Provides a smoky crunch that brightens every bite.
- Boxed stuffing mix (6 ounces): Acts as the base, bringing that classic herb-infused bread texture; about 3 cups of homemade stuffing works just as well.
- Cheddar cheese (3 cups shredded): Delivers creamy, sharp flavor that binds the mixture and gives a luscious melt inside.
How to Make Stuffing Balls with Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This initial setup ensures your sausage balls bake evenly with a crisp exterior.
Step 2: Prepare Your Stuffing
Follow the package instructions for your boxed stuffing mix to get that perfect fluffy and flavorful base. If you prefer homemade stuffing, you can skip this step and use about 3 cups of your favorite version instead. The stuffing is essential, deeply soaking in flavors from the sausage and cheese as they cook.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, unite your cooked and crumbled sausage, diced bacon, prepared stuffing, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix these components thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until everything is evenly distributed. This combination is what makes these balls so incredibly savory and addictive.
Step 4: Shape the Balls
Take about one heaping tablespoon of the mixture and roll it tightly into a ball shape. Packing them firmly is key to keeping them intact during baking. The size is perfect for finger foods—bite-sized and easy to enjoy in just one or two bites.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the formed balls on your prepared baking sheet with a bit of space between each. Pop them into the oven and bake for around 25 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when the sausage is no longer pink and the cheese has melted beautifully inside.
How to Serve Stuffing Balls with Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your stuffing balls, garnish them with freshly chopped parsley or chives, which add a lovely touch of color and a burst of fresh herbaceous flavor. A sprinkle of paprika or a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing also pairs wonderfully and invites guests to customize each bite.
Side Dishes
These sausage stuffing balls shine as an appetizer but can also complement hearty side dishes. Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. For a cozy meal, pair with mashed potatoes or a smooth butternut squash puree that echo classic comfort food vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at your next party? Serve your stuffed sausage balls on a wooden platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Alternatively, place them in small ramekins surrounded by dipping sauces like honey mustard, spicy aioli, or cranberry chutney for a festive flair. The possibilities are endless and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your feast, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the balls tightly packed to maintain moisture but avoid overcrowding to prevent sogginess. When you are ready to enjoy them again, the reheated sausage balls will be just as tasty as fresh.
Freezing
To extend their life, you can freeze uncooked stuffing balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-12 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the exterior mushy, and you lose that wonderful crunch you worked so hard to achieve during baking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While breakfast sausage has a nice balance of seasoning, Italian sausage or even spicy chorizo can offer a delicious twist and add a different flavor profile to your stuffing balls.
Is it okay to use homemade stuffing?
Definitely. Homemade stuffing often brings extra flavor and texture, especially if you include your favorite herbs and seasonings. Just make sure you have about 3 cups prepared to match the recipe perfectly.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free stuffing mix or homemade gluten-free bread cubes for the stuffing base. Also, check the sausage ingredients to ensure they do not contain any gluten.
How long can I store these sausage balls once baked?
Once baked, keep them refrigerated and consume within 3 days for the best taste and texture. Beyond that timeframe, they may start to dry out or lose flavor.
What dipping sauces go well with stuffing balls?
Some popular options include honey mustard, ranch dressing, cranberry sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo. These sauces complement the savory and cheesy flavors beautifully and offer something for every palate.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful, and comforting appetizer, the Stuffing Balls with Sausage Recipe is a must-try. With a perfect blend of sausage, bacon, stuffing, and cheese, these balls are sure to become a beloved classic at your gatherings. Give them a shot and watch how quickly they disappear from the plate — you’ll be making them again and again!
Print
Stuffing Balls with Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 48 small sausage balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Stuffing Balls with Sausage are a delicious, savory appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or casual parties. Combining flavorful breakfast sausage, crispy bacon, cheesy stuffing, and cheddar cheese, these bite-sized savory balls are baked to golden perfection, making them an irresistible finger food that’s easy to prepare and serve.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound Ground breakfast sausage
- 8 slices Bacon (cooked and diced)
Stuffing
- 6 ounces Boxed stuffing mix (approximately 3 cups homemade stuffing)
Cheese
- 3 cups Cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready for baking the sausage balls evenly.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier, then set it aside.
- Make Stuffing: Prepare the boxed stuffing according to the package instructions. If using homemade stuffing, proceed to the next step.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground sausage, cooked and diced bacon, prepared stuffing, and shredded cheddar cheese until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Form Balls: Roll the mixture into tight balls about 1 heaping tablespoon each. Packing them tightly helps keep them intact during baking.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the sausage balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to ensure they bake evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the sausage is fully cooked through and the balls are golden and firm to the touch.
Notes
- You can use homemade stuffing or a boxed mix according to your preference.
- Make sure to cook the bacon before adding it to the mixture for the best flavor and texture.
- For a crispier exterior, you can broil the sausage balls for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- These sausage balls can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen before baking for convenient meal prep.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy ketchup for added flavor.
