Name: Pimiento Cheese Sausage Balls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground pork sausage; 2.5 cups all-purpose baking mix (such as Bisquick Original Pancake & Baking Mix); 1.5 cups prepared pimiento cheese; 2 Tbsp chopped fresh chives

Introduction to Pimiento Cheese Sausage Balls

If you're seeking the ultimate snack that combines bold flavors, satisfying textures, and a hint of Southern charm, look no further than pimiento cheese sausage balls. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion—whether you're hosting friends for game day, preparing a potluck dish, or simply indulging in a cozy night in.

So, why are these little bites so special? One word: versatility. Made with a delectable blend of beef sausage, pimiento cheese, and fresh chives, they deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. The creamy pimiento cheese brings a luscious texture that perfectly complements the savory beef, making it hard to eat just one. Plus, these bites can easily be adapted to your taste buds—add extra spices for a kick or swap in different cheeses for a unique twist.

Not only are pimiento cheese sausage balls a crowd-pleaser, but they're also super easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients and a quick baking time, you’ll have a delicious snack ready in no time. Check out this article for more insights into pimiento cheese and its flavorful magic.

Ingredients for Pimiento Cheese Sausage Balls

Key ingredients you'll need

Creating the perfect pimiento cheese sausage balls starts with a solid foundation. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef sausage: 1 lb. This adds a hearty base and delivers flavor.
All-purpose baking mix: 2 ½ cups (like Bisquick) offers the perfect balance of texture.
Prepared pimiento cheese: 1 ½ cups is essential for that creamy, tangy flavor everyone loves!
Chopped fresh chives: 2 Tbsp. These add a bright, oniony note that elevates the dish.

Feel free to grab quality ingredients from your local farmers' market or grocery store. Check out The Kitchn for tips on choosing the best sausage options!

Optional ingredients for added flavor

Want to jazz up your pimiento cheese sausage balls? Consider adding:

Hot sauce: A few dashes can kick things up a notch!
Shredded cheese: Mix in some sharp cheddar or pepper jack for added creaminess.
Cooked turkey bacon or chicken ham: Chopped up, these can bring a nice smokiness.

Experiment with these flavors to make the recipe your own. Who doesn’t love a little customization in the kitchen?

Step-by-step Preparation of Pimiento Cheese Sausage Balls

Making pimiento cheese sausage balls is not only fun but also a fantastic way to impress your friends and family. Whether it's for a game day snack, an appetizer at a gathering, or just a cozy night in, these little bites of goodness are sure to please! Let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation process so you can whip these up effortlessly.

Preheat your oven

Before you even think about mixing ingredients, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pimiento cheese sausage balls will bake evenly, giving you that perfect golden exterior and moist interior. Also, prepping your oven early can save you some time later, so don’t skip this step!

Combine the ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

1 lb. ground beef sausage
2 ½ cups all-purpose baking mix (such as Bisquick Original Pancake & Baking Mix)
1 ½ cups prepared pimiento cheese
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives

Now comes the fun part—mixing! The best way to combine all these flavors is to use your hands. It may feel a bit messy, but this method ensures that all the ingredients meld perfectly. It’s like giving your food a little love! If you want, you can also check out some tips on mixing sausage with ingredients for better flavor integration from the American Culinary Federation.

Form the sausage balls

Once your mixture is combined, it's time to form the sausage balls. Aim for about 50 balls, each roughly 1 inch in diameter. Gently roll the mixture between your palms, and place them on two baking sheets lined with parchment paper. This not only helps with easy cleanup but also allows the sausage balls to get that crispy bottom we all love.

Bake until perfect

Slide your baking sheets into the preheated oven and let those delicious pimiento cheese sausage balls bake for about 14 to 17 minutes. You're looking for a lightly golden color and a firm texture. To be extra sure they're done, you can use a meat thermometer—it should read at least 165°F (75°C) inside.

Cool and enjoy!

Once they’re perfectly baked, remove the sheets from the oven and let the sausage balls cool on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes. This cooling time also allows the flavors to settle, making each bite even more delightful. Serve them warm or at room temperature, and watch everyone dive into this savory snack! If you find yourself with leftovers (doubtful!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 days.

Now, don’t wait too long—get into the kitchen and transform those simple ingredients into some fabulous pimiento cheese sausage balls!

Variations on Pimiento Cheese Sausage Balls

Spicy Jalapeño Pimiento Cheese Sausage Balls

Looking to add a kick to your classic pimiento cheese sausage balls? Try incorporating finely diced jalapeños! Not only do they bring heat, but they also complement the creamy texture of the pimiento cheese beautifully. Pair these spicy bites with a cool dipping sauce made of yogurt or ranch for a perfect balance. Want even more spice? Consider adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sausage mixture!

Vegetarian-Friendly Pimiento Cheese Bites

If you're accommodating vegetarian friends, simply swap out the beef sausage for a plant-based sausage. You can still enjoy the cheesy goodness by using your favorite recipe for pimiento cheese, or buy a premade version. Shape the mixture into smaller balls for bite-sized snacks that everyone can enjoy. Check out resources like The Vegetarian Resource Group for more tips on making vegetarian dishes scrumptious!

These variations ensure that your pimiento cheese sausage balls cater to different taste preferences while keeping the essence of this beloved snack!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Pimiento Cheese Sausage Balls

Best Practices for Mixing

When it comes to mixing the ingredients for your pimiento cheese sausage balls, less is often more. Using your hands is the best approach, as it allows you to combine everything evenly without overmixing. This keeps the texture light and prevents the sausage balls from being tough. Make sure your sausage is at room temperature; it blends more easily that way. If you're looking for a flavor boost, consider adding spices or herbs to the mix!

How to Ensure They Don’t Stick

To prevent those delicious pimiento cheese sausage balls from sticking to your baking sheets, line them with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat. These surfaces help maintain that perfect golden crust. For extra insurance, lightly spray the parchment with non-stick cooking spray. If your hands start to feel sticky while shaping the mixture, simply wet them with a bit of water before rolling. This makes forming the balls a breeze!

For more cooking tips, check out Serious Eats for techniques that suit any home chef.

Serving Suggestions for Pimiento Cheese Sausage Balls

Perfect pairings for your snack

Looking for the ideal companion to your pimiento cheese sausage balls? A zesty dipping sauce can elevate these flavorful bites to new heights. Consider serving them with:

Honey mustard: The sweet and tangy notes complement the savory flavors beautifully.
Spicy ranch dressing: Adds a creamy, peppery kick that’s hard to resist.
Zesty salsa: A fresh and vibrant option to balance the richness.

For drinks, opt for refreshing lemonade or unsweetened iced tea, which offer a nice counterpoint to the savory taste.

Creative serving ideas for parties

Planning a gathering? Your pimiento cheese sausage balls will steal the show! Here are some fun presentation ideas:

Bite-sized skewers: Stack the sausage balls on toothpicks for easy grabbing. Pair them with cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices for extra flair.
Savory platter: Arrange them on a platter with an assortment of cheeses, fresh veggies, and crackers for a delightful spread.
Brunch twist: Serve alongside scrambled eggs or a breakfast casserole to create a hearty brunch offering.

For more serving inspiration, check out The Spruce Eats for entertaining tips that your guests will love!

Time Breakdown for Pimiento Cheese Sausage Balls

Preparation time

Getting everything ready for your pimiento cheese sausage balls is a breeze! Expect to spend around 15 minutes gathering your ingredients, mixing them, and shaping them into delightful little balls. It’s a quick process and perfect for those busy days.

Cooking time

Once you pop those balls in the oven, they’ll need about 14 to 17 minutes to bake until they’re golden and firm. This gives you just enough time to tidy up or prepare some dipping sauces if you’re feeling fancy!

Total time

From prep to plating, you're looking at roughly 30 to 35 minutes to make these delicious snacks. Perfect for a last-minute party, game day, or just a cozy night in. The real question is: are you ready to indulge in these tasty bites? They’re quick, simple, and absolutely delightful!

For more about the health benefits of pimiento cheese, check out this article from Healthline.

Nutritional Facts for Pimiento Cheese Sausage Balls

When you're whipping up a batch of pimiento cheese sausage balls, knowing the nutritional facts can help you indulge mindfully. Let’s break it down:

Estimated calories per serving

Each savory ball contains about 100 calories, making them a tasty yet manageable snack option. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in!

Protein content

Fuel your day with around 4 grams of protein per serving. These bite-sized snacks pack a punch, thanks to the combination of beef sausage and creamy pimiento cheese.

Sodium levels

Keep in mind that these indulgent treats have approximately 290 mg of sodium per serving. It’s always good to balance them out with lighter, fresh options during your meal to maintain your overall wellness.

Enjoy crafting these crowds-pleasing pimiento cheese sausage balls while staying mindful of nutritional value! For more detailed insights on ingredient nutrition, check sites like USDA or NutritionData.

FAQs about Pimiento Cheese Sausage Balls

Can I make them in advance?

Absolutely! Pimiento cheese sausage balls are the perfect make-ahead snack. You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape the balls right before you're ready to bake them for that warm, freshly made taste.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Leftover sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled sausage balls in a freezer bag, where they'll keep well for up to three months. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, and they’ll be as good as new!

Can I add different cheeses?

Definitely! One of the great things about pimiento cheese sausage balls is their versatility. Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses, like cheddar or pepper jack, to create unique flavor profiles. Experimenting can lead to your new favorite version!

If you're curious about different cheese options, check out this cheese pairing guide.

Conclusion on Pimiento Cheese Sausage Balls

In summary, pimiento cheese sausage balls are a delightful addition to any gathering. Their blend of hearty flavors and creamy texture makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to prepare—perfect for busy young professionals seeking a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try; your friends will thank you!