Hearty Cheese & Sausage Bites
Looking for a snack that’s both satisfying and simple to make? These Hearty Cheese & Sausage Bites are just what you need. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, they combine savory sausage with gooey cheddar in a bite-sized package.
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Ingredients for Hearty Cheese & Sausage Bites
The star of the show is clearly the ground sausage — it adds a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist. We’re using shredded sharp cheddar cheese for its tangy, bold taste that pairs perfectly with sausage. The all-purpose flour acts as the binding agent, giving structure to our bites. Just a pinch of baking powder helps them puff up slightly, while salt and black pepper enhance the overall flavor. A splash of milk brings everything together, creating a dough that’s easy to work with.
Hearty Cheese & Sausage Bites Tips & Tricks
- Chill the dough for 10 minutes if it’s too sticky to handle comfortably.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for hot sausage instead of mild.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform-sized bites.
Serving Ideas for Hearty Cheese & Sausage Bites
These bites are fantastic on their own but even better when paired with a tangy mustard or spicy aioli for dipping. Serve alongside a light green salad to balance the richness, or add them to a charcuterie board for a hearty addition.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake them fresh when you're ready to serve.
- What if I don’t have cheddar cheese?
- Feel free to substitute with any cheese that melts well. Monterey Jack or mozzarella would work nicely.
- Can I freeze the sausage bites?
- Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Just reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Hearty Cheese & Sausage Bites Recipe Walkthrough
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F. This ensures it’s nice and hot when we’re ready to bake, giving our bites a lovely golden finish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Don’t be shy — use your hands to mix everything together until it’s well combined. It might feel a little sticky, but that’s what you want.
Next, gradually add the milk to the mixture. Pour it in slowly and keep mixing until a dough forms. You’re looking for a consistency that’s firm enough to hold its shape but not too dry.
Once your dough is ready, start rolling it into 1-inch balls. Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving each a bit of space to breathe.
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and let them bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and have a slightly crisp exterior.
Finally, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They’re best enjoyed warm, so don’t wait too long before diving in.
Why This Hearty Cheese & Sausage Bites Works
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Perfectly portable for parties or picnics.
- A crowd-pleaser packed with flavor.
- Warm, cheesy, and satisfying — the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground sausage
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
- 2. In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- 3. Gradually add milk to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- 4. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- 6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.