Recipe For Jimmy Dean Sausage Cheese Balls: Bite-Sized Savory Delights

These savory bites deliver restaurant-quality flavor in a convenient, bite-sized package. I developed this method after years of testing different cheese-to-sausage ratios to achieve the perfect texture and taste balance.

The secret lies in using Jimmy Dean sausage and sharp cheddar, combined with a simple biscuit mix that creates a tender exterior. The recipe comes together in 30 minutes with minimal effort, making it ideal for parties or quick snacks.

Each ball emerges golden brown with a crispy crust giving way to a rich, cheesy interior. The sausage provides just the right amount of spice, while the melted cheese creates that irresistible stretch with every bite.

Serve warm with toothpicks for easy handling, or pair with your favorite dipping sauce. This crowd-pleasing appetizer disappears faster than you can make it.

Ingredients for Recipe for Jimmy Dean Sausage Cheese Balls

A handful of pantry staples and two star ingredients deliver this crowd-pleasing dish.

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The sausage is non-negotiable here—Jimmy Dean has the right fat content and seasoning blend (the regular or hot both work, but avoid the sweet maple variety). For the cheese, block cheddar you shred yourself melts better than pre-shredded. Bisquick is the classic biscuit mix, but any generic brand works fine. Look for sharp cheddar with a vibrant orange color for maximum flavor impact.

No Bisquick? 2 cups flour + 1 tbsp baking powder + 0.5 tsp salt makes a fine substitute. Out of sharp cheddar? Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, or mild cheddar in a pinch (though the flavor won’t pop as much). The milk can be any kind—whole gives the richest texture. If the dough feels too sticky, add a sprinkle more flour (don’t go overboard though, or the balls will be dense).

Mix the dough just until combined—overworking makes them tough. Baked balls freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Reheat straight from frozen at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Leftovers keep in the fridge for 4-5 days, but they’re best fresh out of the oven.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Jimmy Dean Sausage Cheese Balls

Here’s the method I use every time to make these irresistible little bites.

Step 1: Prep the Sausage Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 lb Jimmy Dean Sausage, 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, 2 cups Biscuit Mix, 0.5 cup All-Purpose Flour, 1 tsp Baking Powder, 1 tsp Garlic Powder, 1 tsp Onion Powder, 0.5 tsp Salt, and 0.25 tsp Black Pepper. Use your hands to mix thoroughly—the warmth helps distribute the ingredients evenly.

This is where the magic starts. I’ve found that using my hands gives me better control over the texture than a spoon or spatula. You want everything well combined but not overworked. The mixture should feel cohesive but still slightly crumbly.

Step 2: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the 0.5 cup Milk, 1 whole Large Egg, and 0.25 cup Unsalted Butter (melted and slightly cooled). Pour this wet mixture into the sausage mixture and stir with a wooden spoon until just combined.

The dough will be sticky—that’s exactly what you want. Don’t be tempted to add extra flour to make it less sticky, as this will affect the final texture. The 0.25 cup Unsalted Butter adds richness, while the egg binds everything together.

Step 3: Form and Bake the Cheese Balls

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. I like to roll them between my palms to make them perfectly round.

Bake for 18-20 minutes until the sausage cheese balls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling slightly. You’ll know they’re done when the edges look crispy and the centers are set. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even browning.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Remove the sausage cheese balls from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. They’ll firm up slightly as they cool. While still warm, sprinkle with 1 tbsp Dried Parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

These are best served warm, straight from the oven. The Sharp Cheddar Cheese will be gooey and melty, while the sausage provides a savory kick. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as is—they’re that good.

Best Sauces and Condiments for This Recipe

Classic Ranch Dip

My go-to pairing is a creamy ranch dressing—it complements the savory sausage and sharp cheddar perfectly. I mix 1 cup sour cream with ½ cup mayonnaise and 1 tbsp ranch seasoning from Hidden Valley. The cool, herby notes balance the richness. 🌿

Spicy Sriracha Mayo

For those who love heat, combine ½ cup mayonnaise with 2 tbsp sriracha and 1 tsp lime juice. The tangy spice cuts through the fat, making each bite more dynamic. I always keep a jar of this in my fridge.

Sweet and Tangy BBQ

Warm 1 cup BBQ sauce—I prefer Sweet Baby Ray’s—and thin it slightly with 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar. The smoky-sweet flavor contrasts beautifully with the cheesy interior. Brush it on or serve on the side.

Honey Mustard Twist

Whisk together ¼ cup Dijon mustard, ¼ cup honey, and 1 tbsp yellow mustard. This creates a sweet-and-sharp dip that highlights the sausage’s seasoning. It’s a crowd favorite at my gatherings.

Marinara for Dipping

A warm marinara sauce adds Italian flair. Simmer 1 cup Rao’s marinara with 1 tsp garlic powder and ½ tsp red pepper flakes. The acidity brightens up the rich, cheesy bites.

Creamy Jalapeño Sauce

Blend ½ cup Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp pickled jalapeños, and 1 tsp jalapeño juice for a cool, spicy kick. This sauce adds a refreshing zing that pairs wonderfully with the warm, crispy balls. 🔥

Frequently Asked Questions