If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines comfort food flavors, look no further than Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls! These savory bites are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for holiday parties and casual gatherings alike.

Did you know that stuffing balls have become a beloved way to reinvent classic Thanksgiving flavors into portable, shareable appetizers? With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of golden, crispy bites that will have your guests coming back for more.

Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation, and some tips to make these stuffing balls truly shine!

Ingredients for Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls

To create the perfect appetizer, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients

1 pound Jimmy Dean sausage bulk variety works best for easy mixing
1 box StoveTop stuffing chicken or turkey flavor, prepared according to package directions
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp cheddar adds more depth of flavor
1 cup water for preparing the stuffing mix

Optional Ingredients

Cooked bacon bits for added smokiness and crunch
Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for garnish
Dipping sauce ranch, marinara, or cheese sauce for serving

How to Prepare the Sausage Mixture

Here’s how to build the base for your stuffing balls:

Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble the Jimmy Dean sausage and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully cooked and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Prepare the Stuffing: Follow the package directions to prepare the StoveTop stuffing, using 1 cup of water. This typically involves adding the stuffing mix to hot water and letting it sit for 5 minutes until tender.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, prepared stuffing, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture holds together.

Shaping and Baking the Balls

Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape and bake these delicious bites:

Shape the Mixture: Using a 1-ounce ice cream scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on a greased baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the stuffing balls for 20-25 minutes, until they are golden brown and heated through.
Cool Slightly: Allow the balls to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter.

Variations and Customizations

One of the great things about Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls is their versatility!

Protein Swaps: Use ground turkey, ground chicken, or a combination of sausage and ground beef for different flavor profiles.
Cheese Options: Try a blend of cheddar and monterey jack, or experiment with gouda or gruyere for a more sophisticated taste.
Vegetable Additions: Finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions can be sauteed with the sausage for added texture and flavor.
Stuffing Varieties: Swap traditional chicken stuffing for cornbread, herb, or sage flavored versions depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with classic holiday sides and casual dips. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or vegetable platter for a lighter complement to their rich, savory flavor.

For beverages, pair these bites with a crisp white wine like sauvignon blanc, a light beer, or simply iced tea for a non-alcoholic option.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to shape and bake. Baked stuffing balls can be frozen on a baking sheet and then transferred to freezer bags for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply bake frozen balls at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you’ve created a batch of golden, cheesy sausage stuffing balls that are sure to become a party favorite.

These bites are perfect for holiday gatherings, game day appetizers, or even as a quick snack for busy weeknights.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your cheese choices, protein options, or dipping sauces. There’s no limit to how you can customize this recipe to match your taste preferences.

Try it today and experience the deliciousness for yourself!

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it, or bake the balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for 15-20 minutes.

What’s the best way to keep them warm for serving?

Keep baked stuffing balls warm in a slow cooker on the low setting, or place them on a warming tray during your gathering.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely. Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even plant-based sausage will work well. Just ensure it’s cooked through and any excess moisture is drained before mixing with the other ingredients.

Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls

These Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls combine seasoned ground sausage, savory stuffing, and melted cheddar cheese into golden, bite-sized appetizers that are perfect for any gathering. They are an easy make-ahead option ideal for holiday parties, game day events, or quick entertaining.

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Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 30

Total Time: 45

Servings: servings

Author: Olivia Bennett

Ingredients

1 pound Jimmy Dean sausage bulk variety works best for easy mixing
1 box StoveTop stuffing chicken or turkey flavor, prepared according to package directions
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp cheddar adds more depth of flavor
1 cup water for preparing the stuffing mix
Optional toppings cooked bacon bits, fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble the Jimmy Dean sausage and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully cooked and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Prepare the Stuffing: Follow the package directions to prepare the StoveTop stuffing, using 1 cup of water. This typically involves adding the stuffing mix to hot water and letting it sit for 5 minutes until tender.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, prepared stuffing, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture holds together.
Shape the Mixture: Using a 1-ounce ice cream scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on a greased baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the stuffing balls for 20-25 minutes, until they are golden brown and heated through.
Cool Slightly: Allow the balls to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter.