Description
These savory Sausage Balls are a perfect crowd-pleaser appetizer featuring juicy sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of sweet and spicy flavors from the sweet chili sauce and apricot jam. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they bake quickly for a delightful snack or party finger food.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage Balls
- 1 pound sausage (room temperature, Jimmy Dean works well)
- 10 ounces freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese (room temperature)
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce (or hot pepper jelly, room temperature)
- ½ cup apricot jam or preserves
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from ½ lemon)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sausage Ball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature sausage, freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, and Bisquick baking mix. Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the Sausage Balls: Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, spaced slightly apart.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the sausage balls in the center rack for about 12 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Make the Sauce: While the sausage balls bake, in a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, ½ cup apricot jam, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice until smooth and well combined.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the sausage balls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve warm with the prepared sweet and tangy sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Allow the sausage and cheese to come to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate cleanup.
- These sausage balls can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
- Adjust the sweet chili sauce amount in the dipping sauce according to your preferred spice level.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best texture.
