My Sunday afternoons are dedicated to meal prep, and a double batch of these stuffing sausage balls is always on my list. They reheat beautifully all week long, making for a quick, protein-rich breakfast or a satisfying afternoon snack. There is something so deeply comforting about a recipe that can effortlessly slide from a holiday party platter to a Tuesday night dinner. These little bites are the ultimate chameleon of the appetizer world, and once you try them, you will understand why they have become a non-negotiable in my kitchen rotation.
Table of Contents
Stuffing Sausage Balls
These stuffing sausage balls are the ultimate versatile appetizer, perfect for holiday parties, game day, or weekly meal prep. They combine savory sausage, melty cheese, and herby stuffing for a crowd-pleasing bite that reheats beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 24 balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
- 1 6-ounce box of dry stuffing mix, such as Stove Top
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup milk or chicken broth
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage or poultry seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine dry stuffing mix, shredded cheese, and black pepper.
- Create a well in the center and add milk/broth and egg. Mix wet ingredients then combine with dry mixture.
- Add raw sausage and mix gently with hands until fully combined.
- Form into 1.5 tablespoon balls and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For gluten-free version: use gluten-free stuffing mix and sausage. For dairy-free: omit cheese or use dairy-free alternative, use plant-based milk. Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in oven for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 balls
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Ingredients List
Stuffing sausage balls begin with a beautifully simple lineup of ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. The magic is in how they come together.
For the classic version, you will need:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
- 1 6-ounce box of dry stuffing mix, such as Stove Top
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup milk or chicken broth
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage or poultry seasoning
Smart Substitutions:
- Sausage: Feel free to swap the breakfast sausage for mild or hot Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. For a lighter option, chicken or turkey sausage works wonderfully.
- Stuffing: Any flavor of dry stuffing mix is great. Cornbread stuffing is a fantastic choice. For a from-scratch version, use 2 cups of dried breadcrumbs mixed with a teaspoon of dried herbs.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great tang, but provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a pepper jack for a kick are all delicious.
- Liquid: Chicken broth adds a savory depth, while milk keeps things tender. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based milk and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Timing
This is one of those easy dinner recipes that comes together with stunning speed.
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: About 40 minutes
That is nearly 50% faster than many other baked appetizers, giving you more time to enjoy your guests or simply put your feet up.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these perfect appetizers is a straightforward process. Just follow these simple steps for golden, savory bites every single time.
Preheat and Prepare. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Combine the Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the entire box of dry stuffing mix, the shredded cheddar cheese, and the black pepper. Give it a quick stir to distribute everything evenly.
Add the Wet Ingredients. Create a well in the center of your dry mixture. Pour in the milk or broth and crack in the egg. Use a fork to whisk the wet ingredients together right in the center before gradually stirring everything into the dry mix.
Incorporate the Sausage. Add the raw ground sausage to the bowl. This is the fun part. Using your hands is truly the best method here. Gently mix and knead until the sausage, stuffing, and cheese are fully and evenly combined. Do not overwork it, just mix until no dry pockets remain.
Form the Balls. Scoop out about a tablespoon and a half of the mixture for each ball. Roll them gently between your palms to form uniform spheres. Pro Tip: If the mixture is too sticky, lightly dampen your hands with water. Place each ball on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
Bake to Perfection. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the stuffing sausage balls are golden brown on the outside and the sausage is cooked through. Let them cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before serving; they will be very hot inside.
Nutritional Information
These savory bites are satisfying and packed with flavor. Per serving (approx. 2-3 balls):
- Calories: ~180
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 12g
The protein from the sausage and cheese helps keep you full, while the stuffing provides comforting carbohydrates. For a lighter version, using turkey sausage and low-fat cheese can reduce the fat content significantly.
Equipment Needed
You do not need any fancy gadgets for this recipe. A simple kitchen setup is all it takes:
- A large mixing bowl
- A standard baking sheet
- Parchment paper (highly recommended for no-stick baking)
- Measuring cups and spoons
That is it. Regular kitchen, regular time, great results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe has earned its permanent spot in my home for so many reasons.
- Incredibly Versatile: They are the perfect appetizers for Thanksgiving, a hit as football food on game day, and even a simple, satisfying weeknight dinner.
- Meal Prep Hero: They freeze and reheat like a dream, making future-you very grateful.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of savory sausage, melty cheese, and herby stuffing is a universal winner.
- Simple Ingredients: It is a short list of items you can find at any grocery store.
- Kid-Friendly: These yummy eats are almost always a hit with even the pickiest little eaters.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Comfort food should be accessible to everyone. Here are some easy swaps to fit your dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure your sausage is certified gluten-free.
- Lower Carb: Substitute the dry stuffing mix with 1 1/2 cups of crushed pork rinds or almond flour. The texture will be different but still delicious.
- Dairy-Free: Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative. Use a plant-based milk or all broth for the liquid.
- Higher Protein: Use a high-protein sausage and add an extra 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
The beauty of these stuffing sausage balls is how well they play with others.
For holiday recipes Thanksgiving style, serve them on a platter with a small bowl of gravy for dipping and another with cranberry sauce. They are a fantastic addition to a spread that might include other perfect appetizers like a festive Pumpkin Cheese Ball.
For a casual game day spread, pair them with a spicy mustard or a creamy ranch dip. They fit right in alongside other finger foods.
For a simple family dinner, serve them over a bed of rice or with a side of roasted vegetables. They are a complete, comforting meal all on their own, much like our Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few small tips can make the difference between good and great stuffing sausage balls.
- Overmixing the Meat: Once you add the sausage, mix just until combined. Overworking it can make the final texture a bit tough.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: These have cheese and sausage fat that can stick and burn. Parchment paper guarantees an easy release and even easier cleanup.
- Making the Balls Too Large: Keeping them to about 1.5 tablespoons ensures they cook through evenly and become golden all over without burning.
- Using Cold Ingredients: If you have time, let your sausage and milk sit out for 15-20 minutes to take the chill off. This helps everything incorporate more smoothly.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
These are fantastic for make-ahead meals and leftovers.
- Refrigerating: Let the cooked stuffing sausage balls cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: These freeze exceptionally well. Arrange the cooled balls in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will keep for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: For the best texture, reheat from frozen or refrigerated in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until hot and slightly crisp again. The microwave works in a pinch but can make them a bit soft.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, these stuffing sausage balls are more than just an appetizer. They are a reliable, delicious, and endlessly adaptable recipe that brings people together. Whether you are prepping for a busy week, hosting a holiday gathering, or just need a plate of yummy eats that feels like a hug, this recipe delivers. Simple ingredients, warm memories.
I would love to hear how your stuffing sausage balls turn out. What variations did you try? Share your experience in the comments below. And if you are looking for more easy, crowd-pleasing ideas, be sure to check out our Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls for another fantastic party bite.
FAQs about Stuffing Sausage Balls
What is the difference between sausage balls and stuffing balls?
Sausage balls typically combine ground sausage, baking mix (like Bisquick), and cheese, baked into small, savory bites. Stuffing sausage balls, however, often incorporate traditional stuffing ingredients like bread, broth, herbs, and sometimes vegetables, mixed with sausage, then formed and baked, offering a more complete meal-like flavor profile.
What is stuffing sausage made of?
“Stuffing sausage” typically refers to ground pork sausage that is seasoned specifically for use in stuffings or dressings. Common seasonings include sage, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and sometimes a hint of nutmeg or allspice, designed to complement traditional holiday flavors.
How long can you keep sausage balls in the fridge?
Cooked sausage balls can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For best quality, reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can you freeze stuffing sausage balls?
Yes, stuffing sausage balls freeze exceptionally well. You can freeze them either raw or cooked. For raw, flash freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1-2 months. For cooked, cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container or bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.
How do you keep sausage balls from drying out?
To prevent sausage balls from drying out, ensure they are not overbaked. Using a good ratio of fat from the sausage and moisture from cheese or other binders helps. If reheating, cover them loosely with foil to retain moisture, or add a splash of broth if they seem too dry.
What cheese goes best with sausage balls?
Sharp cheddar cheese is a classic and highly recommended choice for sausage balls due to its robust flavor that complements the sausage well. Other good options include Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a sharp provolone for a different twist.
💬 Lets Stay Connected!
For daily recipes, kitchen tips, and exclusive content, follow me on:
👉 Facebook for behind the scenes and community fun
👉 Pinterest for visual inspiration and meal ideas
👉 X (Twitter) for quick tips and trending recipes
📲 Join the flavor journey, your next favorite recipe is just a follow away!
