Are you craving a warm, savory snack or appetizer that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these delightful Sausage Balls with Stuffing! This recipe elevates the classic sausage ball to new heights by incorporating the comforting flavors of homemade stuffing. Perfect for game day, holiday gatherings, or a quick and satisfying weeknight meal, these sausage balls are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience a burst of flavor in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice!)
- 1 cup prepared stuffing mix (herb or savory)
- 1/2 cup milk (or chicken broth for extra richness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, but adds a lovely fresh note)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Mix the magic: In a large bowl, crumble the breakfast sausage. Add the stuffing mix, milk, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley (if using), black pepper, and garlic powder. Gently mix everything together until well combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough sausage balls.
Shape the balls: Using your hands, roll the sausage mixture into 1-inch balls. Make them roughly the same size for even cooking.
Bake to perfection: Place the sausage balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. A meat thermometer inserted into the center should read 160°F (71°C).
Serve and enjoy: Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. They're delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, or even a simple honey mustard.
Tips for Sausage Ball Success:
- Don't overwork the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough sausage balls. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use your hands: While you can use a spoon, using your hands to roll the sausage balls allows for better control and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat, or experiment with different herbs and spices.
Variations:
- Cheesy Sausage Balls: Add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese to the mixture.
- Spicy Sausage Balls: Use spicy breakfast sausage and add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Breakfast Sausage Balls with Cranberries: Add 1/4 cup dried cranberries to the mixture for a sweet and savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per sausage ball - approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. However, a single sausage ball will likely contain roughly:
- Calories: 80-100
- Fat: 6-8g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
These Sausage Balls with Stuffing are a quick and easy recipe that's perfect for any occasion. They're a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious blend of savory and comforting flavors. Enjoy creating this simple yet satisfying dish!