When I first made cheddar bay sausage balls for a family Thanksgiving brunch, I didn’t expect them to vanish in minutes. They were supposed to be an appetizer, but the platter barely made it to the table before everyone grabbed one — then two — and started asking for the recipe. That’s when I realized this wasn’t just another sausage ball recipe. These were the legendary ones — soft, cheesy, garlicky, and perfectly golden with that unmistakable Red Lobster flavor we all love. Whether it’s Christmas morning, a football tailgate, or just a cozy brunch, these sausage ball bites always steal the show. In this article, you’ll learn how to make perfect cheddar bay sausage balls, how to store them, and how to customize them for any occasion.
The Story Behind Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
A Family Tradition Turned Crowd Sensation
Every holiday season, there’s one dish that everyone expects me to bring — these cheddar bay sausage balls. It all started years ago when I accidentally grabbed a box of Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix instead of plain Bisquick. The result? Pure magic. That garlicky herb seasoning transformed my classic sausage balls into something sensational — moist inside, crisp outside, and unbelievably flavorful. Now, it’s become our family’s go-to dish for every festive occasion, from Thanksgiving brunch to Christmas Eve gatherings.
Why Cheddar Bay Mix Changes Everything
The secret to the best sausage balls lies in the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix. Unlike traditional recipes that can turn dry or crumbly, this mix gives each bite a soft, biscuit-like texture with a buttery, garlicky depth that’s irresistible. When you add sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and your favorite sausage, the result is rich, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. It’s comfort food made elegant — perfect for a casual get-together or a festive dinner spread.
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Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- Total Time: 35 min
- Yield: 30 balls 1x
Description
These cheddar bay sausage balls combine Red Lobster biscuit mix, creamy cheese, and savory sausage for a soft, flavorful appetizer perfect for parties or brunch.
Ingredients
1 (11.36-ounce) box Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix
1 pound ground sausage (mild, hot, or sage)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients until just mixed.
3. Scoop and roll mixture into 1-inch balls.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Cool slightly and serve warm.
Notes
You can freeze the unbaked sausage balls for up to 3 months.
Serve with ranch, honey mustard, or sriracha mayo for dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 81
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 18mg
Crafting the Perfect Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
The Star Ingredients That Make It Unforgettable
Start with a box of Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix — it includes a garlic and herb seasoning packet that’s non-negotiable. Next, choose your sausage wisely. Mild pork sausage gives a classic flavor, while hot sausage turns these into irresistible Hot Sausage Balls — ideal for tailgating or game day. Add freshly shredded sharp cheddar for richness and cream cheese for moisture and tenderness. The cream cheese ensures your sausage balls stay soft and juicy — no dry, crumbly bites here.
Mixing Like a Pro for Perfect Texture
To get that signature bite, mix your ingredients with intention. You can do it by hand or in a stand mixer. Mixing by hand gives you more control, but a stand mixer with a paddle attachment makes it effortless. Combine the sausage, biscuit mix (including the seasoning packet), cheddar, and softened cream cheese just until blended. Don’t overwork it — overmixing can toughen your sausage balls. Once combined, use a small scoop to portion the dough evenly and roll each ball smooth. This ensures even baking and a beautiful golden finish.
Baking Your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls to Perfection
Getting That Golden, Crispy Edge
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the sausage balls from sticking and makes cleanup easy. Arrange them about an inch apart so air can circulate for even browning. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until they’re golden brown and the internal temperature hits 160°F. That’s the sweet spot — crisp outside, juicy inside, and full of garlicky aroma.
Serving Them Hot and Irresistible
After baking, let them rest for a few minutes on paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Serve them warm — that’s when the cheese is melty, and the texture is perfect. These sausage balls shine as a party appetizer, holiday side dish, or brunch bite. They pair beautifully with dips like ranch, spicy sriracha mayo, or even a cool honey mustard. For a festive touch, sprinkle a little fresh parsley or serve on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
Flavor Variations and Creative Twists
From Classic to Holiday-Ready
Want to give your cheddar bay sausage balls a seasonal spin? Add sage-flavored sausage for a Thanksgiving touch or mix in diced jalapeños for a spicy twist that’s perfect for tailgating. Around Christmas, I love making stuffed sausage balls by pressing a small cube of cheddar or pepper jack in the center before rolling. When baked, it melts into a gooey surprise that guests go crazy for.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
These sausage balls are fantastic for meal prepping. You can roll them ahead of time, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to serve, bake them straight from frozen — just add a few extra minutes. They’re perfect for spontaneous get-togethers or last-minute brunch ideas.
Serving, Pairing, and Storage Tips
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a Christmas brunch, a tailgate party, or Thanksgiving morning, cheddar bay sausage balls fit right in. They’re hearty enough for a main dish at breakfast but fancy enough to impress as cocktail-hour bites. For a southern-style brunch, serve them alongside scrambled eggs, grits, and fruit salad. For parties, they’re great on a grazing board with cheese cubes, grapes, and crackers.
Storing Leftovers the Smart Way
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 325°F for about 8 minutes or microwave in 15-second bursts until warmed through. Avoid reheating too long, as it can dry them out. If you want to keep that fresh-baked texture, brush lightly with melted butter before reheating — it brings back the warmth and shine.
FAQ
Can I use Bisquick instead of Cheddar Bay Mix?
Yes, but the flavor won’t be as rich. The Red Lobster mix gives that signature garlicky flavor that sets these apart.
Can I make cheddar bay sausage balls ahead of time?
Absolutely. Roll them, refrigerate overnight, and bake just before serving for the freshest taste.
What’s the best sausage to use?
Mild pork sausage is classic, but hot sausage adds kick. You can even try deer sausage for a smoky, gamey twist.
Can I freeze them after baking?
Yes, once cooled, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen.
What dips go best with them?
Try spicy aioli, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even marinara for an Italian twist.
Conclusion
Cheddar bay sausage balls aren’t just another appetizer — they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, comfort, and flavor to every bite. They’re easy to make, easy to freeze, and perfect for every occasion. Once you make them, you’ll understand why they’ve become a year-round favorite for so many families. So next time you’re planning a get-together, skip the store-bought snacks and bake up a batch of these homemade delights. Everyone will ask for the recipe — guaranteed.
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