2cups (8 ounces)sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded/grated)(grate or shred your own for the best results)
2cupsBisquick baking mix(see notes below for how to make your own baking mix)
4ouncescream cheese, softened(can use reduced-fat cream cheese)
½cup (2 ounces)parmesan cheese, grated
optional
½cupgreen onion, green tops only, sliced
Instructions
Baked Sausage Balls
Preheat the oven to 375º F. Prepare the baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, a Silpat, or aluminum foil.
Add the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and parmesan cheese to a large bowl. Sprinkle the baking mix and green onion (if using) on top. Use clean hands, a potato masher, Mix n Chop, or stand mixer to mix the sausage ball mixture together. If using your hands, it is best to knead or fold the baking mix into the ground sausage.
Use a medium scoop or large tablespoon to make 24 sausage balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake at 375º Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs are lightly golden brown in color. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the center of the sausage balls registers 145º Fahrenheit in temperature.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like a marinara sauce or a zesty BBQ.
Air Fryer Sausage Balls
Preheat the air fryer to 350º F.
Add the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and parmesan cheese to a large bowl. Sprinkle the baking mix and green onion (if using) on top. Use clean hands, a potato masher, or a stand mixer to mix the sausage ball mixture together. If using your hands, it is best to knead or fold the baking mix into the ground sausage.
Air fry at 350º F for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket after 5 minutes. When done, the meatballs will be golden brown. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the center of the turkey sausage balls registers 165º Fahrenheit in temperature
Notes
Avoid the temptation to use pre-shredded cheese. We recommend that you buy a block and shred it yourself. Packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can cause your sausage balls to crack and dry out.
Keep a bag of frozen, unbaked (or baked) turkey sausage meatballs in the freezer! Add them to slow cooker and Instant Pot recipes, or use them as meatballs in pasta sauces, for a quick weeknight dinner.
**Before serving, be sure to check the internal temperature of the meatballs. They should be 165° Fahrenheit.
Make your own homemade baking mix with flour, baking powder, shortening, and salt.
Storing Instructions:
Space the turkey sausage balls at least 1" apart on a baking sheet.
Then, cover the baking sheet with foil, and store it flat in the fridge.
Refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
Make Ahead Instructions:
Make batches ahead of time and keep them in the freezer or fridge. This way, you'll always have a delicious, healthy meal on hand and ready to serve any time!
After forming them, you can refrigerate or freeze them depending on how soon you will use them.