master-cooks | Classic Sausage Balls With Cranberry Mustard Recipe

Classic Sausage Balls with Cranberry Mustard is a delightful appetizer that combines savory and slightly sweet flavors, perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy family snack. The recipe begins with fresh pork sausage, which is mixed with sharp cheddar cheese and biscuit mix, creating a rich and flavorful dough. As the sausage balls bake, they develop a golden-brown crust with a tender, juicy interior, offering a satisfying texture in each bite. To complement the savory sausage balls, a cranberry mustard dip is prepared. This tangy and slightly sweet sauce is made by blending whole cranberry sauce with spicy Dijon mustard, adding a touch of acidity and fruitiness that balances the richness of the sausage balls. The dip enhances the flavors, providing a refreshing contrast that keeps guests reaching for more. These sausage balls are versatile, easy to prepare ahead of time, and can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a convenient choice for entertaining. Whether enjoyed as a festive holiday treat or a comforting snack, Classic Sausage Balls with Cranberry Mustard offer a harmonious blend of flavors that delight the palate and evoke a sense of celebration.

Gather the classic sausage balls with cranberry mustard ingredients

For the foundation of these balls, opt for a hearty breakfast sausage or another flavorful, high-quality ground sausage. The "baking mix" consists of all-purpose flour, baking powder, kosher salt, garlic and onion powders, smoked paprika, and freshly ground white pepper, which will be combined with the sausage and some grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese. Melted butter serves to bind the mixture, while fresh chives, Dijon mustard, and creamed horseradish sauce enhance the flavor. The dipping sauce is prepared using cranberry sauce (either homemade or store-bought), whole grain mustard for added texture, and a splash of apple cider vinegar.

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Set the oven temperature to 400°F.

Step 2: Prepare 2 baking sheets

Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.

Step 3: Whisk together the dry ingredients

In a spacious bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and white pepper, and whisk them together.

Step 4: Add the cheese

Stir in the grated cheddar until fully covered.

Step 5: Mix in the sausage, butter, and remaining seasonings

Incorporate the sausage, butter, chives, mustard, and horseradish sauce, stirring thoroughly until everything is well blended.

Step 6: Form the sausage balls

Utilize a scoop or spoon to create 1-inch round balls.

Step 7: Roll the balls smooth

Shape the balls gently with your hands and arrange them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Bake the sausage balls

Bake the balls one tray at a time until they are golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 20 minutes.

Step 9: Make the cranberry mustard sauce

As the sausage balls bake, combine the cranberry sauce, whole-grain mustard, vinegar, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt. Pour the mixture into a serving dish.

Step 10: Serve the sausage balls with cranberry mustard sauce

Enjoy the sausage balls warm alongside the cranberry mustard dipping sauce.

How can I prepare the sausage balls in advance?

If you're planning to serve these classic sausage balls at a party or gathering, you'll be pleased to know that they can be prepared ahead of time in a few different ways. First, you can combine the meat and biscuit mixture, scoop and shape the balls, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover the sheet pan with plastic wrap or foil and freeze until you're ready to bake, allowing them to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes beforehand.

Alternatively, you can bake the sausage balls in advance, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. When it's time to serve, simply thaw the balls at room temperature, then reheat and crisp them in an air fryer or an oven preheated to 375°F. You can also prepare the cranberry mustard dipping sauce ahead of time. Just mix all the ingredients together and store the sauce in a covered glass bowl in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I switch up any of the ingredients or flavors in this recipe?

Kinnaird suggests numerous ways to enhance the flavors of your traditional sausage balls. Begin with the sausage by selecting a variety that comes pre-seasoned. Consider using a spicy sausage, turkey sausage, or one infused with maple or sage. You can also incorporate a range of fresh or dried herbs; adding some chopped fresh sage or thyme to the meat mixture will impart a more vibrant, herbal taste.

Instead of using extra-sharp cheddar, try substituting some pepper Jack or Gruyère for part or all of the cheddar. Incorporating a touch of pickle relish, chopped capers, or olives can introduce a delightful tanginess to the meat. You might also experiment with a hint of curry powder or allspice in place of smoked paprika. For an extra kick, consider adding a sprinkle of cayenne or chili powder. Overall, sausage balls are quite versatile, so don’t hesitate to play around with your favorite spices, cheeses, and condiments.

Classic Sausage Balls With Cranberry Mustard Recipe