Bisquick Chicken Sausage Balls

These lightened up Bisquick Chicken Sausage Balls are perfect for a crowd or a tasty snack anytime. They have the best balance of cheesy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors all wrapped up in a fluffy biscuitlike bite. Ready in under an hour, these sausage balls make a great appetizer, a game day finger food, or even a quick breakfast on the go. I first made these for a family gathering, and they disappeared so fast I started making extra batches just to have leftovers. Now they are a staple at our parties and weekend breakfasts alike.

I love how easy it is to mix everything together in one bowl. The seasonings are just right and the cheese adds a wonderful melty texture. These sausage balls have become my go-to snack when friends drop by unexpectedly.

Ingredients

• One pound lean ground chicken or ground turkey: around 92 93 percent lean for moist flavorful sausage balls
• One tablespoon paprika: to add warmth and the perfect smoky undertone
• One teaspoon salt: to bring out all the flavors in the dish
• One teaspoon black pepper: for subtle heat and depth
• One teaspoon garlic powder: for that classic savory backbone
• One quarter teaspoon crushed red pepper: to add a mild kick without overpowering
• One quarter teaspoon fennel seeds: these are key for that authentic sausage flavor, lightly toasted if possible
• Two and a half cups Bisquick Heart Smart Baking Mix: or original Bisquick if preferred for the biscuit texture
• Three eighths cup skim milk: measured carefully as one third cup plus one tablespoon for proper moisture
• One tablespoon dried parsley: for freshness and color
• Eight ounces shredded 2 percent milk sharp cheddar cheese: sharpness balances richness and melts perfectly for gooey bites

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

(No actual sautéing here but mix the seasonings thoroughly) Combine the ground chicken, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, and fennel seeds in a large bowl. Use a fork or clean hands to blend everything evenly until the mixture is well seasoned and uniform.

Add the Dry Ingredients and Cheese:

Sprinkle in the Bisquick baking mix, pour the milk, add the dried parsley and shredded sharp cheddar into the seasoned meat. Stir the entire mixture with a spoon or electric mixer until just combined. The dough will be sticky but hold together well.

Shape the Sausage Balls:

Lightly spray your palms with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Divide the mixture into 32 equal parts. Each ball is approximately two tablespoons of mixture. Roll each portion gently into round balls and place them spaced apart on a parchment lined rimmed baking sheet.

Bake to Perfection:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the sausage balls on the prepared sheet for 20 to 24 minutes. Look for a golden brown crust and melting cheese peeking out. Make sure they are cooked through by checking the internal temperature or slicing one open.

I am always fascinated by how the fennel seeds transform the flavor here. That little touch makes these sausage balls taste like they came from a gourmet sausage recipe rather than a quick snack. One time I brought a batch to a family reunion, and everyone kept asking where I bought them since they were so flavorful and tender.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. These sausage balls also freeze well either before or after baking. When freezing raw, place them on a tray to freeze individually before storing in a freezer bag to prevent clumping. Reheat baked sausage balls in an air fryer or oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for five to six minutes for that perfect freshbaked texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have fennel seeds, you can lightly use Italian seasoning for a similar herbal note. Ground turkey can be swapped for the ground chicken with similar results. For dairy free options, try a plant based cheese and unsweetened almond milk instead of skim milk though texture may vary slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sausage balls hot with classic dipping sauces like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for that extra zing. They pair beautifully with a crisp salad for a light lunch or alongside scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast. They also shine on a party platter next to pickles and olives.

These sausage balls are easy to make and freezer friendly, making them ideal for parties and quick breakfasts. A small test bake ensures perfect seasoning every time.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can ground turkey be used instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute, especially if it's 92-93% lean to keep moisture and flavor balanced.

→ What kind of cheese is best for these sausage balls?

Sharp cheddar made with 2% milk provides great flavor and melting quality, but you can try other shredded cheeses too.

→ How can I prevent the mixture from sticking when rolling?

Spraying your hands lightly with cooking spray before shaping the balls helps reduce stickiness and makes rolling easier.

→ Can these sausage balls be frozen after baking?

Yes, they freeze well either before or after baking and can be reheated in an air fryer or oven for best texture.

→ What baking mix alternatives can be used?

Bisquick Heart Smart baking mix is recommended for lower fat, but original Bisquick or similar baking mixes can be used without altering results significantly.

→ Which dipping sauces pair well with these?

Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce complement the savory and cheesy flavors perfectly.