Cheesy slow cooker sausage balls are a delightful and savory appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering where delicious finger foods are appreciated. Made with a flavorful combination of sausage, cheese, and spices, these sausage balls are cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, resulting in tender, juicy bites that are bursting with cheesy goodness. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking for a tasty snack to enjoy with friends and family, these cheesy sausage balls are sure to be a hit.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 2-3 hours
- Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes – 3 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (about 450g) ground sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) biscuit baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or oil, for greasing the slow cooker
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Lightly grease the insert of your slow cooker with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, biscuit baking mix, and milk.
- Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients until well combined. The mixture should be moist and hold together easily.
3. Form Sausage Balls:
- Shape the sausage mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them evenly in the greased slow cooker.
4. Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the sausage balls on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
- To ensure even cooking, you may want to gently rotate the sausage balls halfway through the cooking time.
5. Serve:
- Once the sausage balls are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter using a slotted spoon.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve the cheesy sausage balls hot as a delicious appetizer or snack, with your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
Cooking Tips:
- For added flavor, you can use seasoned ground sausage or add spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, you can transfer the cooked sausage balls to a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
- Leftover sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, these cheesy sausage balls come together quickly and easily.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Packed with savory sausage and gooey melted cheese, these sausage balls are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
- Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a breakfast or brunch spread. They’re perfect for any occasion!
Conclusion:
Cheesy slow cooker sausage balls are a delicious and convenient appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering or occasion. With their savory flavor, cheesy goodness, and tender texture, these sausage balls are sure to disappear quickly from the serving platter. Whip up a batch today in your slow cooker and enjoy the irresistible taste of these crowd-pleasing snacks with family and friends!