Bisquick Sausage Balls with 3 Ingredients are perfect for breakfast or brunch! They’re simple to make from just breakfast sausage, shredded cheese, and Bisquick mix. These savory treats are incredibly versatile and fit seamlessly into various dietary plans, including keto and gluten-free diets. They're perfect for the holidays and require minimal effort and only ONE bowl! Not only are Bisquick Sausage Balls with 3 ingredients easy and delicious, they’re perfect for making ahead of time or freezing to enjoy later.
Why Sausage Balls?
Sausage balls are a classic dish, beloved for their simplicity and satisfying flavor. These little bites are perfect as an appetizer, a quick breakfast, or a hearty snack. They are also a crowd favorite. The basic recipe typically includes sausage, cheese, and a binder like Bisquick. However, with a few tweaks, sausage balls can be adapted to fit various dietary needs, including keto and gluten-free lifestyles.
The Basic 3-Ingredient Bisquick Sausage Ball Recipe
The most straightforward version of sausage balls involves just three ingredients: breakfast sausage, shredded cheese, and Bisquick mix.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork, maple, spicy, or regular)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
- 1 ½ cups Bisquick mix
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the sausage, shredded cheese, and baking mix. Make sure to combine the mixture gently, without packing it too tightly.
- Scoop the mixture into 1 tablespoon sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to make sure they are fully cooked to 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place on a paper towel to drain grease.
Ingredient Considerations for Classic Sausage Balls
Sausage
I like to use an herb seasoned pork breakfast sausage, but you can use a maple, spicy, or regular pork sausage just as long as it’s ground. The most important ingredient in this recipe is the sausage. You want to start with 1 pound of the highest quality great tasting sausage you can find. We use Jimmy Dean All Natural Pork Sausage with great tasting results, another favorite when I can find it is Frans Fryers organic chicken sausage. You can use whatever uncooked sausage you like, chicken or pork. Just make sure you’re happy with the taste because that’s going to be the main flavor of your sausage balls.
Cheese
Use sharp cheddar cheese. I prefer to use sharp cheddar for that nice pop of flavor! Sharp cheddar compliments the flavor of the sausage nicely, but you can experiment with any kind of cheese. The combinations are endless. I also recommend shredding your own cheese from a large block instead of using pre-shredded cheese.
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Bisquick Substitutions
The Biscuit baking mix helps hold the sausage balls together and adds a bit of substance, so you can’t leave it out. But, you can substitute it! If you hate almond flour you can still use this recipe with 1 cup bisquick or 1 cup of any alternative baking mix. I’ve had readers and family/friends recommend using Stove Top Stuffing Mix or Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix in place of the Bisquick!
Keto Sausage Balls: A Low-Carb Alternative
For those following a ketogenic diet, traditional sausage balls are off-limits due to the high carbohydrate content of Bisquick. However, with a few simple substitutions, you can enjoy a keto-friendly version that's just as delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound uncooked breakfast sausage
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a large baking sheet or line with a silicone liner.
- Place all 3 ingredients in a bowl and mix together with hands. For the best results you really need to mix this together with your hands. So wash your hands and get mixing! Combine all of the ingredients until well incorporated. I find this easiest in my stand mixer.
- Shape mixture into one inch balls and place on pan. Tightly roll the sausage balls into golf ball size balls.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
5-Ingredient Keto Sausage Balls
These 5-ingredient Keto Sausage Balls are perfect for keto meal prep, an easy grab and go breakfast or even an appetizer!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb uncooked breakfast sausage
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350*
- Using your hands, mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Using a spoon, scoop out mixture and roll in to 1" balls.
- Place on a parchment paper or foiled cookie sheet about 1" apart.
- Bake at 350* for about 15 minutes or until done throughout.
Tips for Perfect Keto Sausage Balls
- Choose the Right Sausage: The sausage is the star of the show, so choose a high-quality brand with a flavor you love.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing can result in tough sausage balls. Mix the ingredients until just combined.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can affect the texture of the sausage balls. We never buy pre-shredded cheese, we always buy a block and shred our own with my trusty salad shooter, it tastes so much better!
- Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake the sausage balls until they are golden brown and cooked through. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Spice it up: If you want this recipe to have a bit of a kick to it, use spicy sausage and sprinkle in some cayenne pepper. You won’t regret it!
Variations and Add-Ins
One of the great things about sausage balls is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and add-ins to create your own signature recipe.
- Cheese Variations: Try different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, mozzarella, or Gruyere.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add Herbs: Mix in some chopped fresh herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or sage.
- Include Vegetables: Finely diced vegetables, such as onions, peppers, or zucchini, can add flavor and nutrients.
- Garlic Powder: One of my favorite variations is to add 1-2 teaspoons of garlic powder and shredded parmesan cheese in place of the cheddar but shhh….that would be 4 ingredients so don’t tell on me.
Serving and Storage
Sausage balls can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own or served with a dipping sauce.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
Dipping Sauces:
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard
- Barbecue sauce
- Keto-friendly aioli
Make Ahead and Storage Instructions:
- Make Ahead: Yes you can definitely make these Bisquick Sausage Balls ahead of time. You have two options:
- Prep the balls but don’t bake yet (recommended.) Place on a parchment lined cookie sheet and cover tightly, or place in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to three days. Bake as directed in the recipe.
- Bake, cool, and refrigerate. You can then reheat your sausage balls in the microwave, or in the Air Fryer at 350 degrees for a few minutes.
- Refrigerate: Yes, any leftover Bisquick Sausage Balls need to be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to 4 days. This recipe is so filling that you might only need a few for breakfast or snack. Make a bunch of them and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can snack on them all week. They will last about 4-5 days in the refrigerator. They will taste the best right after you make them.
- Freeze: Sausage Balls are freezer-friendly! Make as directed and cool completely before storing in a freezer safe container or freezer ziploc bag. Freezer for up to 6 months. Allow the balls to thaw completely before reheating. Another favorite thing about this recipe is how freezer friendly it is. You can freeze these before you cook them or after. If you opt to freeze these uncooked then you would flash freeze the uncooked sausage balls on a pan for 2-3 hours until solid then place in a ziplock bag. When your ready to cook just place the frozen sausage balls on the broiler pan or baking sheet and bake, adding about 5-7 minutes of cooking time. Or if you prefer, freeze after they’ve been cooked and just microwave them for a quick meal or snack.
Serving Suggestions
These easy 5 Ingredient Keto Sausage Balls are perfect for keto meal prep, an easy grab and go breakfast or even an appetizer!
- Breakfast: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and avocado for a complete keto breakfast. Starting your day with protein is the best way to kick your metabolism into gear! Did you know that studies show that eating a high-protein breakfast can help you lose weight? Yup!
- Appetizer: Arrange on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving at parties and gatherings.
- Snack: Pack a few sausage balls for a protein-packed snack on the go. These are the perfect size to grab in the mornings and eat when you are busy doing all that you do! These also make the perfect post-workout recovery snack. Fuel your body with protein so it can rebuild your muscles.
Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto