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These lightened up Bisquick Chicken Sausage Balls are perfect for an appetizer, snack, game day finger food, or even breakfast. They have a delightful mix of fluffy biscuit texture and savory sausage flavor with cheesy goodness bubbling out. Easy to make and lower in calories, they are great for feeding a crowd or satisfying hunger any time of day.
My family fell in love with these the first time I made them for a football party. The bonus is having leftovers that taste great warmed up for breakfast the next day.
Ingredients
- Lean ground chicken or turkey: One pound about 92 to 93 percent lean for moisture and flavor
- Paprika: Adds a mild smoky sweetness and vibrant color
- Salt: To enhance all the flavors
- Black pepper: Provides balanced warmth without overpowering
- Garlic powder: Delivers subtle savory depth
- Crushed red pepper: Adds just a touch of heat to lift the dish
- Fennel seeds: Bring a mild anise like aroma typical in sausage
- Bisquick Heart Smart Baking Mix: Two and a half cups or original for a tender biscuit base
- Skim milk: Three eighths cup about one third cup plus one tablespoon to moisten the dough without heaviness
- Dried parsley: One tablespoon for a fresh herb note
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Eight ounces made with 2 percent milk for melty sharpness
Instructions
- Sauté the Sausage Seasoning:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, and fennel seeds. Use a fork or clean hands to mix thoroughly until well blended. This step builds your homemade sausage flavor in the lean meat.
- Combine Dough Ingredients:
- Add the Bisquick baking mix, skim milk, dried parsley, and shredded cheddar cheese to the seasoned chicken. Stir with a spoon or an electric mixer until the mixture holds together well. It will be slightly sticky but firm enough to shape.
- Form the Balls:
- Divide the mixture into 32 equal portions or measure two tablespoons each for consistency. Spray your hands lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then roll each portion into a ball. This helps with easy shaping and even cooking.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and place the sausage balls about one inch apart. Bake for 20 to 24 minutes until the balls are cooked through and golden. The cheese should be bubbling lightly on top.
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My favorite ingredient has to be the fennel seeds. They provide that authentic sausage flavor and aroma without the pork, making these lightened sausage balls surprisingly authentic and tasty. I remember bringing a batch of these to a family game day and watching everyone devour them before the big play even started.
Storage Tips
Store cooked sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, use an air fryer at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 6 minutes to bring back the crispy exterior and melty cheese interior. You can freeze raw or cooked sausage balls in freezer bags for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey can be used instead of ground chicken if that is preferred or more readily available. Original Bisquick baking mix works just fine in place of the Heart Smart variety. Swap sharp cheddar for your favorite shredded cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack to change the flavor profile while keeping the melty texture.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these sausage balls straight from the oven on their own as a foolproof appetizer. Serve with dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for added flavor fun. They are also great crumbled over scrambled eggs or mixed into a breakfast casserole for a protein kick.
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These lighter Bisquick Chicken Sausage Balls are a crowd pleaser and work well for parties or a protein packed breakfast. They reheat beautifully and are easy to make ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works well and offers a similar texture and taste. Opt for 92-93% lean for the best results.
- → What cheese varieties can I use?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can substitute with other shredded cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- → Can the sausage balls be made ahead and frozen?
Absolutely. Prepare and freeze before or after baking. Reheat in an oven or air fryer until warmed through.
- → How do I keep the mixture from sticking to my hands?
Spray your hands lightly with cooking spray before shaping the mixture to prevent sticking and make rolling easier.
- → What dipping sauces go well with these?
Ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce all pair deliciously with the savory flavor of these sausage balls.