Breakfast is widely regarded as the most important meal of the day, and for good reason. It kickstarts your metabolism, fuels your body, and sets the tone for a productive and positive day. Among the plethora of breakfast options, one dish stands out for its simplicity, versatility, and universal appeal: sausage breakfast balls. These delectable bites combine the savory taste of breakfast sausage, the comforting texture of hash browns, and the rich cheesiness of mild cheddar, all wrapped up in a convenient bite-sized package. Perfect for busy mornings or weekend gatherings, these sausage breakfast balls are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
1 lb ground breakfast sausage, uncooked
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups biscuit mix (such as Bisquick)
1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
4 cups shredded, frozen hash browns
Preparation
Preheat Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Mix Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, biscuit mix, cheddar cheese, hash browns, and ground breakfast sausage. Use your hands or a sturdy spatula to mix everything together until well combined.
Form the Balls:
Once the mixture is well-blended, use your hands to shape it into balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.
Bake:
Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Serve:
Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These are delicious on their own or paired with a dipping sauce like spicy mustard, hollandaise, or even a tangy ketchup.
Variations and Substitutions
Blend of Meats:
Chicken Sausage: For a lighter option, substitute the pork sausage with ground chicken sausage. It offers a leaner protein while maintaining that savory flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based sausage alternative for a vegetarian-friendly dish. Many plant-based sausages mimic the taste and texture of traditional sausage.
Cheese Choices:
Different Cheeses: Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick, mozzarella for a milder taste, or gouda for a smoky flavor.
Dairy-Free Cheese: For those who are lactose intolerant, use a dairy-free shredded cheddar alternative available at most grocery stores.
Biscuit Mix Alternatives:
Homemade Mix: Create your own biscuit mix using flour, baking powder, and salt, allowing you to control the ingredients. Gluten-free biscuit mix is also a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Hashbrown Substitutions:
Spice It Up: Add hot sauce or chili flakes to the sausage mixture for a spicy version of these breakfast balls.
Egg Pairing:
Serve these sausage balls alongside scrambled eggs for a complete breakfast.
Conclusion
Sausage breakfast balls are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that can elevate any morning meal. They are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Whether you’re preparing them for a family breakfast, a brunch gathering, or simply as a quick snack, these sausage balls are sure to please. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy these delicious bites that will make your mornings brighter and tastier!
