Crack Sausage Balls
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Crack Sausage Balls are the perfect party snack you’ve been looking for. These tasty bites are packed with flavor from sausage, bacon, cheese, and ranch seasoning. You can make 40 servings in just 30 minutes, making them ideal for your next gathering. They’re easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with your guests.
These sausage balls are not your average appetizer. The cream cheese adds a rich, creamy texture, while the bacon and green onions give them a savory kick. You can serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra burst of flavor. Whether it’s game day or a holiday party, these Crack Sausage Balls will have everyone coming back for more.
Exact Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty crack sausage balls:
- 1 pound pork sausage
- 1 pound cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 1/2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 3 green onions, finely chopped (white and green parts)
Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before you start. This will help it mix better with the other ingredients.
You can use any type of pork sausage you like. Spicy or mild both work great!
For the bacon, cook it ahead of time and crumble it into small pieces. You can do this step the day before to save time.
Choose a sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Grate it yourself if you can – it melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
Don’t forget to chop your green onions finely. They add a nice pop of color and flavor to the sausage balls.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
In a large bowl, mix sausage, bacon, cheddar, cream cheese, ranch mix, Bisquick, and green onions. Use a stand mixer with a dough hook or your hands to blend well.
Scoop the mixture and roll it into 1-inch balls. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
Bake for 15-18 minutes. The sausage balls should be golden brown and fully cooked.
Let them cool a bit before you serve. Try them with tasty dips like:
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy aioli
- Honey mustard
- Creamy sriracha sauce
These crack sausage balls are perfect for parties. Your guests will love the mix of flavors from the cheese, bacon, and onions.
Possible Substitutes List
You can easily swap out ingredients in this crack sausage balls recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Try using turkey sausage instead of pork for a leaner option. No Bisquick? Use all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder and salt.
For the cheese, experiment with different varieties like pepper jack or gouda. Vegan? Use plant-based cheese and meat substitutes. Skip the bacon or replace it with chopped ham or turkey bacon.
Here’s a quick list of substitutions:
• Sausage: Turkey, chicken, or plant-based
• Bacon: Turkey bacon, ham, or omit
• Cheddar: Any firm cheese you like
• Cream cheese: Neufchâtel or dairy-free alternative
• Ranch mix: Italian seasoning blend
• Bisquick: Flour + baking powder + salt
• Green onions: Chives or finely diced regular onions
Remember, changing ingredients may affect cooking time and texture. Keep an eye on your sausage balls as they bake and adjust as needed.
How To Make It Diabetes-Friendly
To make these sausage balls more diabetes-friendly, you can try a few simple swaps. Use lean turkey sausage instead of pork to cut down on fat and calories. Replace the Bisquick with almond flour for a lower-carb option.
Cut back on the cheese by using just 1 cup of reduced-fat cheddar. Swap the cream cheese for Greek yogurt to boost protein and reduce fat. Skip the bacon to further lower the fat content.
For the ranch seasoning, make your own mix with dried herbs and spices to control the sodium. Use only 1-2 green onions to reduce the carb count slightly.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Original | Diabetes-Friendly |
|---|---|
| Pork sausage | Lean turkey sausage |
| Bisquick | Almond flour |
| 2 cups cheese | 1 cup reduced-fat cheese |
| Cream cheese | Greek yogurt |
| Bacon | Omitted |
Shape the balls smaller, about 1/2 inch, to control portion sizes. Bake as directed, but check for doneness a few minutes early. Serve with a low-sugar dipping sauce like mustard or a yogurt-based dip.
Remember to check with your doctor or dietitian about how these treats can fit into your meal plan. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Make your crack sausage balls extra tasty with these tips:
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing
- Grate your own cheddar for better melting
- Chill the mixture for 30 minutes before rolling for easier shaping
To save time, prep ahead:
- Mix ingredients and shape into balls
- Freeze on a baking sheet until solid
- Transfer to freezer bags
- Store for up to 3 months
When ready to cook frozen balls:
- Add 3-5 minutes to baking time
- No need to thaw first
Keep leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warm.
For parties, keep sausage balls warm in a slow cooker on low. Add a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.
Try these yummy variations:
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese
- Use spicy sausage for extra kick
- Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes
