Grandma’s Classic Holiday Sausage

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Grandma’s Classic Holiday Sausage Balls

 

I can’t believe I finally found this recipe! My grandma used to make these irresistible sausage balls for holiday parties when I was little. I would sneak one after another whenever nobody was looking!

 

 

 

They’re cheesy, savory, tender, and completely addictive. One bite instantly brings back those cozy family gatherings and wonderful childhood memories. I’m so happy to have this recipe again—and thankfully, they taste every bit as delicious as I remembered!

 

 

 

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) breakfast sausage
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups (240 g) baking mix
  • ½ cup (120 g) softened cream cheese
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, optional

Optional Additions

 

 

 

  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
  • Pepper Jack cheese instead of some of the cheddar
  • 2–3 tbsp finely chopped green onions
  • ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon
  • A pinch of Italian seasoning for a different flavor

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Add the sausage, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper to a large bowl.
  3. Mix everything together until thoroughly combined. Using your hands makes it easier to incorporate all the ingredients.
  4. Shape the mixture into small, approximately 1-inch balls.
  5. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
  6. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and the sausage is completely cooked.
  7. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
  8. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm with ranch, honey mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for the Best Sausage Balls

  • Let the cream cheese soften before mixing.
  • Freshly shredded cheddar melts beautifully and gives the best texture.
  • Don’t make the balls too large; smaller pieces cook more evenly.
  • For extra-crispy bottoms, bake them on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet.
  • You can shape the sausage balls ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

Description

These classic sausage balls are golden and slightly crisp on the outside, with a soft, cheesy, savory center. They’re perfect for Christmas parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, potlucks, brunches, game days, or simply recreating a treasured family tradition.

Nutritional Information

Approximate per sausage ball, based on 24 servings:

  • Calories: 125
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: less than 1 g
  • Sodium: approximately 300 mg

Nutrition will vary depending on the brands and ingredients used.

A Little Taste of Nostalgia

Some recipes are special because they’re delicious. Others are special because they take you straight back to a particular time, place, and person. These sausage balls are both.

 

 

Make a batch for your next holiday gathering, share them with the people you love, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself sneaking one—or three—before the guests arrive.

Grandma’s recipes really do have a way of making the holidays taste like home.

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