Name: Irresistible Smoked Sausage Balls for Your Next Party
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Uncooked Breakfast Sausage (Choose spicy or mild based on preference.); 4 oz Cream Cheese (Cut into cubes, room temperature.); 8 oz Pepper Jack Cheese (Shredded, can substitute with cheddar.); 2 cups Bisquick Baking Mix (Use a gluten-free alternative if needed.); 1/2 cup Pickled Jalapeños (Sliced and drained well.); 1/4 cup Prepared Mustard (Brightens flavors.); 2 tbsp Honey (Adjust to taste.)

As I stood by the grill, a waft of smoky deliciousness filled the air, enticing everyone nearby. That’s when I knew: the Best Smoked Sausage Balls were going to be a hit at our gathering. With a combination of spiced sausage, creamy cheese, and a crispy exterior, these mouthwatering bites have quickly become my go-to party food. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love, but they’re also incredibly easy to whip up, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests. Whether it’s for game day or a cozy family get-together, these smoked sausage balls are the ultimate comfort food that will elevate any occasion. Ready to impress your friends and family with this fantastic snack? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why Are Smoked Sausage Balls a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: These smoked sausage balls are bursting with flavors, combining spiced sausage and creamy cheeses for an unforgettable taste experience.

Easy to Prepare: Simply mix, roll, and smoke – it doesn’t get easier than that!

Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Perfect for any gathering, these bite-sized delights are sure to disappear quickly.

Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients for personal twists, like varying cheeses or adding extra spices.

Make-Ahead Potential: Prepare them in advance and store for later; they reheat beautifully, making hosting a breeze.

Treat your guests to something truly special – pair these delicious balls with a side of honey mustard or explore other finger foods like Air Fryer Balls for a perfect spread!

Smoked Sausage Balls Ingredients

Unlock the secrets to these delicious bites with the perfect mix of ingredients!

For the Sausage Balls
• Uncooked Breakfast Sausage – 1 lb – This is the star of the show, providing that rich, savory flavor; choose spicy or mild based on your preference.
• Cream Cheese – 4 oz, cut into cubes – This creamy ingredient not only binds everything together but also adds a luscious texture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Pepper Jack Cheese – 8 oz, shredded – For an extra kick of flavor, this cheese packs both creaminess and spice; feel free to substitute with cheddar for a milder option.
• Bisquick Baking Mix – 2 cups – A handy way to give structure and consistency to your sausage balls; if you’re gluten-free, use a suitable alternative.
• Pickled Jalapeños – 1/2 cup, sliced – These add a delightful heat and tang; remember to drain them well to avoid a soggy mixture.

For the Honey Mustard Dip
• Prepared Mustard – 1/4 cup – This brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the smoked sausage balls beautifully.
• Honey – 2 tbsp (or to preference) – Perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to your mustard dip; feel free to adjust the quantity based on your taste buds!

With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to making the best smoked sausage balls that will wow your guests at any gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smoked Sausage Balls

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of uncooked breakfast sausage, 4 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese, 8 ounces of shredded pepper jack cheese, and 2 cups of Bisquick baking mix. Use your hands or a sturdy spatula to mix thoroughly for about 8-10 minutes, until a cohesive and smooth dough forms. This mixture will be the flavorful base for your smoked sausage balls.

Step 2: Let the Mixture Rest
After mixing, let the dough rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This brief resting period makes the dough easier to handle, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It also softens the mixture, making it more pliable for shaping the sausage balls, ensuring a better texture when cooked.

Step 3: Shape the Balls
Once the dough has rested, preheat your oven to 250°F for indirect smoking. Portion out the dough, using a scoop or your hands to roll 2-inch balls. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring there’s space between them. For an added burst of flavor, top each ball with a few slices of drained pickled jalapeños before transferring it to the smoker.

Step 4: Prepare the Smoker
Preheat your smoker or grill to 250°F, ensuring a low and steady heat for optimal smoking. Make sure to set it up for indirect smoking by arranging coals on one side or ensuring the heat is directed away from the sausage balls. This controlled environment helps achieve that delightful smoky flavor without burning the sausages.

Step 5: Smoke the Balls
Arrange the sausage balls on the smoker grate without them touching, allowing even smoke distribution. Close the lid and smoke the sausage balls for approximately 25 minutes, monitoring them closely. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 155°F and have a beautiful golden-brown color.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the smoked sausage balls from the smoker and let them cool slightly on a serving platter. Meanwhile, prepare a quick honey mustard dip by mixing 1/4 cup of prepared mustard with 2 tablespoons of honey in a small bowl. Serve the delicious smoked sausage balls warm alongside the dip for a delightful party snack!

Smoked Sausage Balls Variations

Feel free to put your own unique spin on these delightful bites and make them even more irresistible!

Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 cup of diced fresh jalapeños for extra heat. These zesty bites will leave everyone craving more!
Cheese Swap: Substitute pepper jack cheese with sharp cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile. Each cheese offers a distinct creamy taste.
Herb Infusion: Mix in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley or chives for a burst of freshness. This simple addition brightens up your sausage balls beautifully.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick to cater to dietary preferences. You won’t sacrifice flavor, but your guests will appreciate the option!
Bacon Blast: Incorporate 1/2 cup of crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky and savory surprise. Adding bacon takes these sausage balls to a whole new level!
Sweet Heat Dip: Serve with a unique dipping sauce made of sriracha mixed with honey instead of classic honey mustard for a sweet yet spicy twist.
Veggie Boost: Enhance nutrition by adding 1/2 cup of finely chopped spinach or kale to the mix. This adds a hint of earthy flavor and vibrant color.

Explore these delicious variations and elevate your gatherings! And don’t forget to check out other fantastic recipes like Donkey Balls Sweet or try serving these alongside tasty Air Fryer Balls for a well-rounded spread.

What to Serve with Best Smoked Sausage Balls

As the delightful aroma of smoked sausage balls wafts through your home, it’s time to think about perfect pairings that complement this savory snack beautifully.

Creamy Ranch Dip: A cool, creamy dip to balance the savory flavors of the sausage balls, adding a refreshing touch to each bite.
Veggie Platter: Fresh, crunchy vegetables like celery and carrots provide a crisp contrast, creating a colorful and healthy accompaniment for your guests.
Deviled Eggs: These classic finger foods offer a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the smokiness of the sausage balls, bringing everyone’s taste buds together.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Soft and buttery, garlic bread enhances the comfort food vibe, adding a rich layer to your gathering’s menu.
Spicy Pickles: Zesty and tangy, these pickles add an additional kick and layer of flavor that elevates the entire appetizer experience.

Impress your guests with a balanced selection of flavors and textures that will leave them raving about your spread long after the last bite!

How to Store and Freeze Smoked Sausage Balls

Fridge: Keep your smoked sausage balls in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness and flavor; they’ll be ready for quick snacking anytime!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze smoked sausage balls individually on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat them in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes if refrigerated or 15-20 minutes from frozen; this ensures they remain warm and delicious.

Make-Ahead Tip: Preparing smoked sausage balls in advance means less time in the kitchen during your gathering, letting you focus on enjoying the company of guests!

Expert Tips for Smoked Sausage Balls

Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in your mixture, resulting in smooth sausage balls.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a tender texture; overmixing can make your smoked sausage balls dense.
Drain Jalapeños: Properly drain pickled jalapeños to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to a soggy final product.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal of the smoked sausage balls after cooking; this minimizes sticking.
Monitor Smoking Temperature: Keep an eye on your smoker; if it gets too hot, lower the temperature to ensure the sausage balls don’t burn before cooking through.

Make Ahead Options

These Best Smoked Sausage Balls are a dream for meal prep, making your gathering hassle-free! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients as directed, then portion and roll the balls. Place them on a baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. If you want to prepare even further ahead, freeze them raw for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, smoke the balls directly from the fridge for about 25 minutes at 250°F, or if frozen, allow an additional 10-15 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, just-as-amazing sausage balls with minimal last-minute effort!

Smoked Sausage Balls Recipe FAQs

What type of sausage should I use for smoked sausage balls?
Absolutely! You can use uncooked breakfast sausage as the base, but feel free to switch it up with spicy or mild sausage depending on your taste preferences. I often recommend a spicy sausage for a flavorful kick!

How do I store leftover smoked sausage balls?
To keep your smoked sausage balls fresh, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This way, you can enjoy them as a quick snack or appetizer throughout the week.

Can I freeze smoked sausage balls?
Very! To freeze them, place the rolled balls on a baking sheet without touching each other and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once they are firm, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date!

How do I reheat smoked sausage balls?
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen or refrigerated smoked sausage balls, reheat them in the oven. For refrigerated sausage balls, set your oven to 350°F and heat them for about 10 minutes. If they’re frozen, you’ll need to warm them for 15-20 minutes. This ensures they’re heated through while staying delightfully crispy!

Are there any dietary considerations for smoked sausage balls?
Definitely! If you’re catering to allergies, be mindful of the cream cheese, sausage, and any added spices. For a gluten-free option, simply swap the Bisquick baking mix for an appropriate gluten-free blend. If you’re sharing with pets, keep in mind that all these ingredients should be kept away from them, as some can be harmful.

What if my mixture is too wet or too dry?
If your mixture seems too wet, you can gradually add a bit more Bisquick mix until it reaches a good consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too dry, a little extra cream cheese or a splash of milk can help moisten it. Just be sure to mix until everything is well incorporated but not overmixed.

Enjoy preparing your smoked sausage balls, and happy cooking!