November Recipepalooza: Cheese & Sausage Balls
For as long as I can remember, cheese and sausage balls have been the first food on the table at my family gatherings. When people smell them coming out of the oven there is a stampede to the kitchen to see who can get their hands on them first. No matter what kind of crowd you’re serving, these will be quick to leave the plate!
CHEESE & SAUSAGE BALLS
1 lb hot Italian sausage
3 ½ cups baking mix (you can make this yourself or buy it premade)
8 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
Cayenne pepper to taste (I start with about 15 to 20 shakes, but after your first batch is cooked, taste and adjust for the next batch)
Note: Many other spices/herbs would be a great addition to these. Just use the ones you like most! For instance, I think that rosemary and garlic powder would be great additions!
Mix sausage and baking mix together. Soften cheese in microwave for 15 seconds or so. Add cheese and cayenne pepper to mixture, and blend well (I use my hands). Shape into ¾ inch balls and place them on a cookie sheet. Bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes or until golden brown. Makes 3 dozen. Freezes well after cooked and cooled. Reheat in the microwave if needed.
~ Laura of the Tillamook Team
Photo: Flickr/Jessicizer (Creative Commons)
December 22nd, 2011 at 11:09 am
I just had some of these…HOLY CHEESE BALLS BATMAN. THESE ARE AMAZING!!! Thank you for sharing the recipe Laura – new holiday tradition for sure!