Maple sausage balls are a fun and tasty treat! Made with juicy sausage, fluffy biscuit mix, and a sweet hint of maple, they are great for breakfast or a snack.
The best part? They disappear fast! I love making a big batch and enjoying them warm right out of the oven. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to myself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: Use your favorite breakfast sausage, whether it’s mild or spicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage works well. It has a lighter flavor but still brings that deliciousness!
Biscuit Baking Mix: I use Bisquick, but you can make your own by mixing flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. If you prefer a gluten-free version, look for a gluten-free baking mix that suits your taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice kick, but feel free to swap it for other types of cheese, like pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Crumbled feta can work, too, for a unique twist!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is best for flavor, but you can substitute with honey or agave syrup if you’re out of maple. Be aware that these options will change the taste slightly, making it more floral.
Milk: Any milk works here, including almond or oat milk for dairy-free. The main goal is to add moisture, so don’t stress too much about it.
How Do I Make Sure My Sausage Balls Are Moist and Flavorful?
Getting the right texture in sausage balls is essential. Make sure to mix the ingredients well, combining the sausage with the biscuit mix and cheese adequately. This helps the flavors meld.
- Don’t overload on the mixing to avoid tough sausage balls.
- If they feel too dry, a little extra milk or maple syrup can help.
- You want a sticky but manageable dough, which keeps them soft after baking.
Also, shaping them into equal-sized balls ensures they cook evenly, so don’t skip this step!
How to Make Maple Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sausage Balls:
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup milk
- Optional: 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 tsp dried sage or parsley for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll spend around 35 minutes to have these delicious sausage balls ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your sausage balls will bake evenly and become nice and golden brown. While that’s heating, you can prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
2. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, biscuit baking mix, and shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure everything is well-mixed to create a delicious base for your sausage balls. You want to see bits of sausage and cheese throughout!
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and milk until smooth. This sweet mixture will add a delicious flavor and moisture to your sausage balls.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the maple syrup mixture into the bowl with the sausage mixture. Mix everything together thoroughly until a sticky dough forms. Don’t worry if it feels a little tacky; that’s a good sign!
5. Shape the Balls:
Using your hands or a small scoop, take portions of the dough and shape them into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 1 inch apart. This allows them to cook evenly and expand a little bit.
6. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked throughout. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen is filled with a delightful aroma!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, take the sausage balls out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. They’re best enjoyed warm, so dive in while they’re fresh and get ready for some tasty bites!
These maple sausage balls are packed with savory goodness and a sweet kick, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a fun appetizer. Enjoy! 😊
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly milder, so consider adding more spices or herbs to boost the taste.
What If I Don’t Have Biscuit Baking Mix?
No problem! You can easily make a substitute by mixing 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt. This homemade mix works just as well and maintains the fluffy texture!
Can I Freeze These Sausage Balls?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the cooked sausage balls to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes!
How Do I Make Them Spicier?
If you like some heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Additionally, using spicy sausage will naturally enhance the overall flavor. Experiment to find your perfect spice level!