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Pancake sausage balls are my go to recipe when I need a savory breakfast option that will please a crowd. These bite sized morsels combine fluffy pancake flavor with cheesy sausage goodness in every bite. They are quick to make and always disappear fast whether served at brunch or as an easy appetizer.
The first time I made these, I was hosting a big family holiday brunch and wanted something different from usual egg casseroles. My little cousins went back for seconds and leftovers never lasted an hour.
Ingredients
- Pancake mix: brings a light and fluffy bite plus a touch of sweetness Use a good quality all purpose style pancake mix for best flavor
- Sharp cheddar cheese: provides richness and melt opt for fresh shredded to avoid clumping
- Breakfast sausage: is the savory star go for good quality uncooked sausage meat bulk, not links
- Milk: brings the mixture together and keeps the balls moist whole milk is best but any works
- Fresh parsley or chives: brighten everything up and add a fresh punch of flavor
- Maple syrup or jelly: are for dipping or drizzling choose pure maple syrup or your favorite breakfast jam
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit Let your oven heat up fully while you prepare the mixture A hot oven makes sure the sausage balls cook evenly and get a golden crust
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the pancake mix freshly shredded cheese uncooked sausage, and milk to a large bowl Use a stand mixer with paddle on low speed about one minute until everything is just combined or mix well by hand until it holds together and looks uniform Kneading by hand can help if the mixture seems dry
- Shape the Balls:
- Scoop out golf ball sized portions about one and a half inches across Roll them gently between your palms so they are even and round Then arrange on a parchment lined or greased baking sheet with about one inch space in between for even cooking
- Bake:
- Slide the sheet into your oven Bake for about twenty to twenty three minutes Check a ball by cutting in or using a thermometer to be sure there is no pink sausage and cheese is bubbling
- Garnish and Serve:
- Allow the sausage balls to cool a couple of minutes on the tray Arrange on a platter and sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives for color Serve warm with maple syrup or jelly for dipping
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Sharp cheddar is my favorite for its kick and creamy melt When we make these for holidays my sister and I get competitive over whose batch is cheesier and they always make everyone laugh at brunch
Storage Tips
Keep leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days They reheat in the oven or air fryer to stay crisp You can also freeze them in a single layer then transfer to a freezer bag They taste fresh after a quick bake from frozen
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in spicy breakfast sausage for more kick or try chicken sausage for a lighter version You can use pepper jack or Monterey Jack instead of cheddar for new flavor profiles Almond milk works in a pinch if dairy is a concern
Serving Suggestions
Pile high on a platter with toothpicks and a bowl of maple syrup or jelly for dipping They work well as a breakfast for dinner option with scrambled eggs and fruit Kids like them tucked into lunchboxes too
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History of the Dish
Sausage balls have deep roots in Southern cooking The addition of pancake mix gives them a fluffier texture and sweet touch compared to the biscuit base of classic recipes My family always made theirs extra cheesy because that is what drew us to the kitchen first thing in the morning
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture, but pre-shredded cheese can be used in a pinch.
- → What type of sausage works best?
Use uncooked breakfast sausage for the most authentic taste. Hot or mild varieties both work well.
- → How do I prevent the balls from drying out?
Do not overbake, and ensure the mixture is moist but firm before shaping. Let ingredients come to room temperature for better blending.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Shape and chill balls ahead of time, then bake just before serving for the best texture. Leftovers can be gently reheated.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Classic choices include maple syrup and grape or strawberry jelly, but spicy jams or mustards are delicious too.