Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with these incredible Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls. Imagine savory sausage, blended with creamy, tangy pimento cheese and a touch of Bisquick, baked to golden perfection. These bite-sized delights are more than just an appetizer; they are a celebration of Southern flavor and an irresistible treat that will have everyone reaching for more. Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday feast, a casual tailgate party, a cozy brunch, or simply looking for a satisfying snack, these sausage balls with pimento cheese are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a delightful twist on the classic recipe.
These savory pimento cheese appetizers are a brilliant choice for your busiest days or when entertaining guests. Their simplicity lies in the ability to prepare them ahead of time, shape them, and then freeze them, making your party prep effortlessly smooth. You can easily customize them to your liking: swap in a spicy sausage for an extra kick, or finely chop some green onions into the mixture for a fresh, pungent bite. These versatile morsels pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces, from smoky BBQ to creamy ranch, ensuring they are always a hit. They’re particularly cherished for festive holiday mornings, laid-back get-togethers, or simply as an afternoon pick-me-up. The rich, cheesy flavor combined with the hearty sausage creates a snack that truly embodies the warmth and hospitality of Southern cooking.
Why These Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls Are a Must-Try
- A Symphony of Bold, Cheesy Flavors: The magic truly happens with the combination of savory sausage and the rich, creamy goodness of pimento cheese. This Southern staple delivers a distinctive tangy kick that elevates these bites beyond ordinary. It’s a delectable fusion that creates a flavor profile so captivating, you’ll find it impossible to eat just one. We’ve taken our beloved classic sausage balls, traditionally made with Bisquick and shredded cheese, and given them an exciting twist by incorporating the unique taste of pimento cheese for an explosion of flavor.
- Effortless Preparation with Only 3 Ingredients: Time is precious, and this recipe respects that. With just three core ingredients – pimento cheese, baking mix, and ground sausage – you can whip up a batch of these incredible sausage balls in under 30 minutes. This makes them an ideal solution for unexpected guests, impromptu gatherings, or simply when you need a quick, satisfying snack without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Perfect for Make-Ahead & Freezing Convenience: Planning ahead is a breeze with this recipe. The mixture can be prepped in advance, shaped, and then frozen unbaked. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop them into the oven straight from the freezer. This make-ahead capability makes them an absolute lifesaver for holiday entertaining, busy weekdays, or effective weekend meal prepping. In fact, many home cooks swear by making a double batch – one to savor immediately and another to freeze, ensuring you always have a delicious, homemade appetizer ready at a moment’s notice.
The Southern Charm of Pimento Cheese and Sausage Balls
The culinary landscape of the American South is rich with comfort food traditions, and few dishes capture this essence quite like pimento cheese and sausage balls. Pimento cheese, often dubbed “the pâté of the South” or “Southern caviar,” is a delightful spread made from cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimento peppers. It’s a staple at picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings, celebrated for its creamy texture and tangy, slightly sweet flavor. When combined with the hearty, spiced goodness of sausage, it transforms into an irresistible appetizer that speaks volumes about Southern hospitality.
Sausage balls themselves are a classic American snack, typically made with sausage, cheese, and a biscuit mix like Bisquick. They gained widespread popularity due to their ease of preparation and universal appeal. This particular recipe takes that beloved classic and infuses it with the distinctive character of pimento cheese, creating a deeper, more complex flavor that is both familiar and exciting. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, thoughtfully combined, can create something truly extraordinary. Whether you have roots in the South or are simply exploring its vibrant food culture, these pimento cheese sausage balls offer a delicious journey into a cherished culinary tradition.
Key Ingredients and Clever Substitutions
- Ground Pork Sausage: This is the flavorful foundation of your sausage balls! For a classic taste, Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage is a popular choice. If you prefer a bolder flavor, hot Italian sausage or even a mild Italian sausage can be wonderful. You can also experiment with different spice levels to suit your palate.
- Pimento Cheese: The star ingredient that delivers a rich, cheesy, and tender bite. Pimento cheese is traditionally a blend of cheddar cheese, pimento peppers, and mayonnaise. It contributes both flavor and moisture. Many fantastic brands are available, with Palmetto cheese being a personal favorite for its consistent quality. However, any good quality pimento spread will work beautifully in this recipe. Don’t have any on hand? Making your own pimento cheese from scratch is surprisingly easy and ensures you can always whip up these delightful sausage balls!
- Bisquick Baking Mix: This convenient flour-based baking mix acts as the essential binder, holding your sausage balls together and giving them their tender texture. It’s a shortcut ingredient that makes this recipe incredibly quick and simple.
- Optional Additions: Consider adding finely sliced green onions for a subtle sharpness and fresh flavor, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
🎯 Pro Tip: If you opt for a leaner ground sausage, such as chicken or turkey, adding 2 tablespoons of milk or melted butter to the mixture will help maintain moisture and prevent the sausage balls from becoming dry.
Homemade DIY Bisquick Substitute
Ran out of Bisquick? No problem! You can easily prepare your own baking mix at home with common pantry staples. Many are surprised to learn that an original pancake baking mix like Bisquick is simply a combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and a fat source like vegetable shortening. It’s incredibly straightforward to make and ensures you’re never without this crucial ingredient.
For precise measurements and a detailed guide on how to create your own, refer to a reliable homemade Bisquick recipe. Having this on hand means you can enjoy these pimento cheese sausage balls, and many other Bisquick-based recipes, whenever the craving strikes!
Creative Recipe Variations
- Turkey or Chicken Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls: For a lighter option, substitute the ground pork sausage with leaner ground turkey or chicken. Remember to incorporate two tablespoons of melted butter or whole milk to ensure the mixture remains moist and the finished meatballs are tender. This variation still offers fantastic flavor while being a bit lighter.
- Gluten-Free Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls: Adapting this recipe for a gluten-free diet is simple. Just swap out traditional Bisquick for a gluten-free Bisquick alternative or any other preferred gluten-free baking mix. Enjoy all the flavor without the gluten!
- Experiment with Pimento Cheese Flavors: Don’t limit yourself to just the classic pimento cheese. Many brands, including Palmetto, offer exciting variations. Try their spicier spreads infused with jalapeños for a fiery kick, or opt for a savory pimento cheese with bacon for an added layer of smoky depth. You can also customize by using your own homemade pimento cheese recipe with different cheeses or seasonings.
- Amplify the Spice: For those who love heat, a dash of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika can add a wonderful spicy dimension. Alternatively, if you prefer a sharper cheese profile, substitute part of the pimento cheese with a strong sharp cheddar.
Essential Equipment for Perfect Sausage Balls
You don’t need fancy gadgets to make these delicious pimento cheese sausage balls. A few basic kitchen tools will suffice:
- Baking Sheet: Essential for baking the sausage balls evenly.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat (Silpat): To line your baking sheet, preventing sticking and making cleanup a breeze.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Cookie Scoop (optional, but recommended): A medium-sized cookie scoop ensures uniform sausage ball sizes, which leads to even baking. A large tablespoon works perfectly as well.
How to Make Addictive Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls
Follow these simple steps to create perfectly baked, flavorful pimento cheese sausage balls:
- Preheat your oven to 375º Fahrenheit (190º Celsius). Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, a Silpat silicone liner, or aluminum foil. This step is crucial for non-stick baking and easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, your chosen pimento cheese mixture, the Bisquick baking mix, and any optional additions like chopped green onion.
- Using clean hands, a sturdy potato masher, or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, thoroughly mix the sausage ball ingredients until well combined. If using your hands, gently knead or fold the Bisquick and pimento cheese into the ground sausage until a uniform mixture is achieved. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dry sausage balls.
- Using a medium-sized cookie scoop or a large tablespoon, portion out the mixture and roll it into approximately 24 individual balls. Each ball should be roughly the size of a golf ball for consistent cooking. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each one to allow for even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 375º Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes. The sausage balls are done when they appear lightly golden brown on the outside and cooked through.
- For perfect internal doneness, use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the center of the sausage balls registers a safe internal temperature of 145º Fahrenheit (63º Celsius). This guarantees they are thoroughly cooked and ready to enjoy.
Serving Suggestions and Dipping Delights
These warm, cheesy pimento cheese sausage balls are incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. While they are fantastic on their own, pairing them with a delicious dipping sauce takes them to the next level!
Consider serving them with:
- Sweet & Tangy Sauces: A zesty BBQ sauce, a sweet and spicy mango chili sauce, or a classic honey mustard.
- Savory & Creamy Dips: Ranch dressing, a quick marinara sauce, or even a robust remoulade.
- For an Extra Cheesy Experience: Serve alongside a warm beer cheese dip or a rich queso.
Beyond dipping, these delightful bites are ideal as a game-day tailgate snack, a sophisticated party appetizer, a grab-and-go breakfast item, or even as a flavorful addition to your weeknight dinner spread. Their comforting nature makes them suitable for everything from casual family meals to more festive holiday gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
These flavorful snacks are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. For a sweeter profile, try honey mustard, classic barbecue sauce, or even ketchup. If you prefer savory options, ranch dressing, a zesty remoulade, or even a rich pretzel with beer cheese dip can enhance their cheesy goodness further. They also complement a light salad or fruit platter beautifully.
Dry sausage balls can typically be attributed to a few common issues. One frequent cause is using too much baking mix; always stir your flour mixture before measuring to ensure accuracy. Another factor can be overworking the ground meat, baking mix, and cheese mixture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, then quickly form the balls. Additionally, if using a very lean sausage (like turkey or chicken), remember to add a couple of tablespoons of milk or melted butter to boost moisture. Following these tips should help you achieve perfectly moist and tender sausage balls every time.
The magic behind these sausage balls holding their shape lies in the perfect combination of three key ingredients: the binding power of the baking mix, the natural fat and texture of the ground sausage, and the creamy, emulsified pimento cheese mixture. Together, these components create a cohesive mixture that bakes into perfectly formed, delicious balls. While freshly grated cheese is often recommended in other recipes, the prepared pimento cheese mixture works exceptionally well here due to its consistent texture and moisture content.
Freezing these sausage balls before baking is the ideal method for optimal results. First, form the meatballs as directed in the recipe. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze them for about an hour, or until they are firm. Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour before following the baking instructions.
The best way to ensure your sausage balls are perfectly cooked is to use an instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the center of a sausage ball; it should register an internal temperature of at least 145º Fahrenheit (63º Celsius). Visually, they will also be lightly golden brown on the outside.
Cooked pimento cheese sausage balls will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Always allow them to cool completely to room temperature before transferring them to the container and placing them in the fridge to maintain freshness and prevent condensation.
Yes, you can freeze these sausage balls after they’ve been baked, though freezing them unbaked is generally preferred for texture. To freeze already baked balls, first allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring they are well sealed. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can warm them gently in the oven or microwave.
For unbaked frozen sausage balls, avoid thawing them in the microwave, as this can cause them to separate or become mushy. Instead, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone liner and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour until defrosted. Then, bake according to the recipe instructions. For already baked and frozen pimento cheese sausage balls, you can reheat them directly from frozen. Cover them loosely with foil and bake at 375ºF (190ºC) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
More Easy Appetizers To Love…
- Spicy Deviled Eggs
- Creamy Knorr Spinach Dip
- Mini Cheddar Biscuits
If you tried this pimento cheese sausage balls recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!
Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe Card
Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls
Author: Renae Gerhardstein
Summary: Make this pimento cheese sausage balls recipe in under 30 minutes with just 3 ingredients! A flavorful, make-ahead appetizer perfect for parties or snacking.
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack, Dinner, Holiday
Cuisine: American (Southern)
Servings: 24 sausage balls
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 101 kcal per serving
Equipment
- Parchment lined baking sheet
- Cookie scoop (optional, or large tablespoon)
- Large Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (I prefer Jimmy Dean hot breakfast sausage or hot Italian sausage)
- 1 container (12 ounces) pimento cheese (I prefer the Palmetto cheese brand)
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix (see notes below for how to make homemade baking mix)
Optional:
- ½ cup green onion, green part, chopped
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375º Fahrenheit (190ºC). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, pimento cheese mixture, Bisquick baking mix, and any optional green onion or red pepper flakes.
- Use clean hands, a potato masher, or a stand mixer to mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined. If using your hands, gently knead or fold the Bisquick and pimento cheese into the ground sausage until a uniform consistency is achieved. Avoid overmixing.
- Using a medium scoop or a large tablespoon, form the mixture into approximately 24 pimento sausage balls, each about the size of a golf ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s a small space between each one.
- Bake at 375º Fahrenheit (190ºC) for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are lightly golden brown and cooked through. To confirm doneness, use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the center of the sausage balls registers 145º Fahrenheit (63º Celsius).
- Serve these delicious sausage balls warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, zesty BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.
Notes
- If using a lower-fat sausage, like ground chicken or turkey, add 2 tablespoons of milk or melted butter to the mixture to keep the meatballs moist and tender.
- You can easily make your own homemade baking mix from scratch using flour, baking powder, shortening, and salt.
Recipe Variations:
- For Turkey or Chicken Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls, substitute ground pork with lean ground turkey or chicken. Remember to add two tablespoons of melted butter or whole milk to the mixture to prevent dryness.
- To make Gluten-Free Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls, simply use a Gluten-Free Bisquick or your preferred GF-friendly baking mix.
- Experiment with different varieties of pimento cheese. Many brands, including Palmetto, offer spicy versions with jalapeños or savory blends with bacon. You can also customize your own homemade pimento cheese for unique flavors.
- Boost the spice level by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. For a sharper cheese flavor, consider incorporating some grated sharp cheddar cheese.
Storing Instructions:
- Cooked homemade sausage balls will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure they are cooled completely before refrigeration.
- To freeze unbaked sausage balls: Form the balls, then flash freeze them on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or Ziplock bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for an hour before baking.
- Cooked sausage balls can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven, covered with foil, at 375ºF (190ºC) until warmed through.
Nutrition (per 1 meatball serving)
Serving: 1 meatball | Calories: 101 kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 249mg | Potassium: 69mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 36IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 1mg