Are you craving a delicious, savory snack or appetizer that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! These gluten-free sausage balls are the perfect solution. They're crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor – a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from game day gatherings to casual weeknight dinners. This recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken – choose your favorite!), removed from casings
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (ensure it's a blend that works well for baking)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped chives or green onions for extra flavor
Instructions:
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
-
Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned and fully cooked. Drain off any excess grease. Let the sausage cool slightly.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt.
-
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg.
-
Combine Everything: Add the cooled sausage, cheese, and wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Gently mix until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the sausage balls tough.
-
Shape the Balls: Use a tablespoon or your hands to shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball.
-
Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
-
Cool & Serve: Let the sausage balls cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. Enjoy them warm!
Tips for Success:
- Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Using a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend is key for achieving the best texture. Some blends work better than others for baking, so check reviews before purchasing.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough will result in tough sausage balls. Mix gently until just combined.
- Cooling Time: Allow the sausage balls to cool slightly before serving to prevent them from falling apart.
- Storage: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage Balls: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Sausage Balls: Increase the cheese to 1 cup for an extra cheesy treat! Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend.
- Herb-Infused Sausage Balls: Add 1-2 tablespoons of fresh or dried herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme for a burst of fresh flavor.
Nutritional Information (per sausage ball - approximate):
*Calories: Approximately 80-100 calories (depending on sausage type and cheese used) *Protein: Approximately 5-7 grams *Fat: Approximately 6-8 grams *Carbohydrates: Approximately 3-5 grams
This recipe for gluten-free sausage balls provides a delicious and healthy meal option suitable for various dietary needs. Enjoy this easy and flavorful recipe perfect for any occasion! It's sure to become one of your best recipes!