Sharp Cheddar Sausage Balls

Name: Sharp Cheddar Sausage Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 cup coarsely grated yellow onion; 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (grated (about 2 cups)); 1 pound loose pork breakfast sausage; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage; Small fresh sage leaves for garnish

By Lily | Last modified on Dec 23, 2025

Featured in: Appetizers

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Sharp Cheddar Sausage Balls are a timeless appetizer that brings comfort and bold flavor to any gathering. These golden, bite-sized treats deliver a perfect balance of savory breakfast sausage, the sharpness of aged cheddar, and a hint of fresh sage that adds a festive note ideal for holiday parties or casual get-togethers.

With a quick 15-minute prep time and less than 40 minutes to bake, these sausage balls are effortlessly impressive. Whether served warm from the oven or at room temperature, they make a crowd-pleasing finger food guaranteed to disappear fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines rich sharp cheddar and savory sausage for a deeply satisfying flavor.
Fresh sage offers a bright, aromatic lift that balances richness.
Simple ingredients and easy hands-on mixing make it accessible for all skill levels.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour: 1 1/4 cups, spooned and leveled to provide structure and a tender crumb for the sausage balls.
Baking powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons to give the sausage balls a light, airy texture and aid rising during baking.
Kosher salt: 1/2 teaspoon adds essential seasoning that enhances overall flavor.
Freshly grated black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon offers a gentle heat and aromatic depth to balance the richness.
Cayenne pepper: 1/4 teaspoon adds a subtle spicy kick to enliven the palate.
Coarsely grated yellow onion: 1/2 cup contributes natural sweetness and moisture that complements the sausage.
Sharp cheddar cheese: 8 ounces, grated (about 2 cups) for rich, tangy flavor and melty texture.
Loose pork breakfast sausage: 1 pound is the savory base, supplying juicy flavor and binding the mixture.
Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons, melted, to add richness and moisture for a tender bite.
Chopped fresh sage: 1 tablespoon plus small leaves for garnish, bringing a distinctive earthy, herbaceous aroma.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s properly heated before baking. This temperature yields golden, crisp exteriors and cooked-through centers for perfect sausage balls.
Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This step ensures these key seasonings and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough for balanced flavor and rise.
Add flavorful ingredients: To the dry mix, add the grated yellow onion, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, loose pork sausage, melted unsalted butter, and freshly chopped sage. Use clean hands to mix everything thoroughly until completely combined, allowing you to evenly distribute all components into a cohesive dough.
Shape sausage balls: Using approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture per ball, scoop portions onto a large rimmed baking sheet. Space them about 1 inch apart to promote even cooking. Gently press a small fresh sage leaf on the top of each ball for a decorative and aromatic touch that highlights the herb’s presence.
Bake until golden: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 23 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye for a golden brown color on the outside, indicating the sausage balls are cooked through and ready to enjoy. This timing ensures a perfect balance of a crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful interior.

You Must Know

For best results, use freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Loose pork breakfast sausage works better than bulk sausage patties for ideal texture in this recipe.
To avoid drying out, do not overbake; baking times can vary by oven so check early if unsure.

Storage Tips

Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving to regain warmth and crispness. For longer storage, freeze cooked sausage balls and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sausage balls warm as a party appetizer paired with a tangy mustard or maple dipping sauce. They also make a delicious savory snack alongside a glass of sparkling cider or a robust red wine during festive gatherings.

Professional Tips

Using fresh sage instead of dried contributes brighter, fresher herbal notes.
Mix ingredients by hand for optimal texture; over-mixing with a spoon can make them tough.
Pressing the sage leaf on top before baking helps it infuse flavor subtly while providing an attractive presentation.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?: Yes, turkey sausage works as a leaner alternative, though it may yield a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
Can these be made ahead and frozen?: Absolutely! Form sausage balls and freeze them raw on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with these sausage balls?: They pair wonderfully with mustard-based dips, cranberry sauce, or a simple honey glaze for a sweet contrast.
How do I make these gluten-free?: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best structure.
Can I substitute Parmesan cheese for cheddar?: While Parmesan can be used, sharp cheddar adds a melty, creamy texture and tang that suits the recipe best.
Are sausage balls suitable for breakfast?: Yes! These savory sausage balls make an excellent breakfast bite or brunch appetizer, combining flavors commonly enjoyed during morning meals.