Red Lobster's famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits are legendary, but have you ever craved something a little… different? Something equally cheesy, equally comforting, but with a delightful sausage kick? Then you need to try these Red Lobster copycat sausage balls with cream cheese! This recipe takes the best elements of that beloved restaurant experience and transforms them into bite-sized balls of cheesy, savory goodness perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a fun twist on a side dish. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible treat.
What Makes These Sausage Balls Special?
These aren't your average sausage balls. We've taken inspiration from Red Lobster's signature flavors and elevated the classic recipe. The addition of cream cheese adds an extra layer of richness and moisture, preventing the balls from becoming dry. We’ve also focused on achieving that perfect balance of savory sausage and sharp cheddar, creating a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice!)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash – optional, but recommended for a golden-brown finish)
Instructions for Mouthwatering Sausage Balls:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
- Cream Cheese Magic: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Incorporate Sausage: Add the cooked sausage to the cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix!
- Shape the Balls: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. (You can make them larger or smaller depending on your preference.)
- Egg Wash (Optional): Brush the sausage balls with the beaten egg for a glossy finish.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve & Enjoy!: Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious warm or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! Experiment with Italian sausage, chorizo, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will change.
How can I store leftover sausage balls?
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
What are some serving suggestions?
These sausage balls are fantastic on their own, but they also pair perfectly with various dips like marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard.
Are these sausage balls gluten-free?
No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour. To make them gluten-free, substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check the specific blend you use as some may require additional binding agents.
Can I add other ingredients?
Feel free to get creative! Consider adding chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick, finely chopped chives or green onions for extra flavor, or even some crumbled bacon for added richness.
This Red Lobster-inspired recipe guarantees a crowd-pleasing appetizer that's easy to make and even easier to devour. So ditch the takeout and dive into the deliciousness of homemade sausage balls! Enjoy!
