Red Lobster Sausage Balls are an irresistible appetizer that combines the savory flavors of sausage and cheese with a delightful kick of spices. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a casual family dinner, a game day celebration, or a festive holiday party. Their crispy exterior and cheesy, flavorful interior make them an instant crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these sausage balls are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe for Red Lobster Sausage Balls is not only bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of sausage, cheese, and seasonings creates a savory taste that is hard to resist. They are versatile enough to fit into various diets and lifestyles, making them suitable for gatherings with friends, family, or just a cozy night in. Plus, they come together quickly, allowing you to whip up a delicious snack without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these sausage balls are straightforward and rewarding, making them a must-try!
Tips and Tricks
- Use Cold Ingredients: When preparing the sausage balls, make sure to use cold sausage and cheese. This helps keep the balls from becoming too greasy and helps maintain their shape during cooking.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- Chill the Mixture: For better handling, chill the sausage mixture in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before shaping into balls. This makes it easier to form them and helps them hold their shape during baking.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense sausage balls, so be gentle!
Make Ahead Tips
To save time, you can prepare the sausage mixture a day in advance. Simply combine all the ingredients, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just form the balls and pop them in the oven. If you’re looking for even more convenience, you can shape the balls and freeze them before baking. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Recipe Variations
- Add Vegetables: For a healthier twist, consider adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Version: For those who love heat, add diced jalapeños or a few shakes of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an aromatic touch that complements the savory flavors.
How to Serve
Serve your Red Lobster Sausage Balls warm from the oven on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Pair them with a side of creamy ranch or zesty marinara sauce for dipping. These sausage balls make a great addition to a charcuterie board, alongside crackers, cheese, and fresh vegetables.
Pairing Suggestions
For a drink pairing, consider a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer that won’t overpower the flavors of the sausage balls. If you prefer cocktails, a light, citrusy drink like a mojito or a gin and tonic would complement the dish beautifully. As for sides, think about serving them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables, and for dessert, a light fruit sorbet would be a refreshing finish.
How to Store
Leftover Red Lobster Sausage Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for quick reheating, but they may lose some of their crispiness.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking thermometer (optional, but helpful)
If you don’t have a baking sheet, a cast-iron skillet or any oven-safe dish can work in a pinch.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cheese and sausage alternatives. If you need a nut-free option, ensure your sausage and cheese are free from nut-based ingredients. Always read labels to avoid hidden allergens.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or dill for a light, refreshing flavor. In the fall, you might incorporate pumpkin spice or finely grated pumpkin to give the sausage balls a seasonal twist. During winter, serve them with a side of cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage? Yes, turkey sausage works well and provides a leaner option.
- How long should I bake these sausage balls? Typically, they require about 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
- Can I make these sausage balls in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance or freeze them for later use; just adjust the cooking time if baking from frozen.
How To Make red lobster sausage balls
Red Lobster Sausage Balls
Red Lobster Sausage Balls are an irresistible appetizer that combines the savory flavors of sausage and cheese with a delightful kick of spices.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes for easier handling.
- Once chilled, scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Nutrition Information
Yield
24Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 98Total Fat 7gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 3gCholesterol 16mgSodium 252mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 4g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Red Lobster Sausage Balls is an enjoyable and rewarding experience that results in a delicious appetizer sure to impress your guests. With their irresistible flavor and satisfying texture, these little bites are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, these sausage balls are a fantastic choice. Don’t forget to try out the variations and tips to make them your own. Enjoy the cooking process and the delightful flavors that will surely bring smiles all around!
