Jalapeno Popper Sausage Balls are the ultimate party appetizer. Combining spicy sausage, jalapenos, cream cheese, and a Mexican cheese blend, these sausage balls are both easy to make and packed with flavor. The Bisquick mix adds a fluffy texture to the sausage balls, while the cream cheese ensures that each bite is creamy and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a game day snack or a holiday gathering. With a short prep time and simple ingredients, you’ll have these delicious sausage balls ready in just 30 minutes!
Jalapeno Popper Sausage Balls are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic sausage ball appetizer. With a combination of spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and jalapenos, these bite-sized snacks are perfect for any party or gathering.
Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious, crowd-pleasing sausage balls.
INGREDIENTS
- Hot Sausage: The base of this recipe, bringing a spicy kick that complements the richness of the cheese. You can also use mild sausage if you prefer a less spicy flavor.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds a smooth, creamy texture to the sausage balls, balancing the heat from the jalapenos.
- Diced Jalapeno Peppers: These provide the popper-inspired flavor. Use canned jalapenos for convenience and don’t drain them to ensure the moisture is retained in the mixture.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor to the sausage mixture.
- Bisquick: This versatile baking mix helps bind the sausage balls together, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
- Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend: A combination of cheeses that adds richness and flavor to every bite. Feel free to use cheddar or any other cheese blend you prefer.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC) to prepare for baking the sausage balls.
- Step 2:
- In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, combine the hot sausage, softened cream cheese, diced jalapeno peppers (undrained), garlic powder, Bisquick, and shredded Mexican cheese blend. Mix everything together until fully combined.
- Step 3:
- Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the sausage mixture into 1-inch balls. This should yield about 24 sausage balls.
- Step 4:
- Place the sausage balls on a parchment paper-lined rimmed baking sheet, making sure to space them evenly to allow for even cooking.
- Step 5:
- Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are browned and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) to ensure they are cooked safely.
- Step 6:
- Once cooked, remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Jalapeno Popper Sausage Balls are best served hot, right out of the oven. Pair them with a dipping sauce like ranch or sour cream to complement the spiciness of the sausage and jalapenos. They’re perfect for game day, potlucks, or any casual gathering.
- Storage: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quick snack.
- Freezing: These sausage balls freeze well. To freeze, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, and store for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
Helpful Notes
- Adjusting Spice Level: For a milder version, use mild sausage and reduce the amount of jalapenos. For extra heat, leave the seeds in the jalapenos or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
- Cheese Options: You can substitute the Mexican cheese blend with sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Mixing Tip: If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can mix the ingredients by hand. Just make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure everything blends smoothly.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Anna suggests serving the sausage balls with a side of guacamole for an extra layer of creamy flavor that balances the spice.
- Chef Jake recommends adding a splash of lime juice to the sausage mixture to brighten the flavors.
- Chef Lucy advises baking the sausage balls on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to allow the fat to drip off and ensure even browning.