Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce Recipe

The aroma wafting from the oven was intoxicating – a savory, cheesy scent mingled with a bright, citrusy tang that promised something truly special. It was the first time I made Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce, a recipe I stumbled upon while searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that wasn’t the usual dip and crackers. Honestly, I was a bit skeptical of the lemon sauce pairing with sausage balls, but curiosity (and my family’s insatiable appetite for anything bite-sized) got the better of me. Let me tell you, the moment those golden-brown orbs emerged from the oven, and I drizzled that vibrant lemon sauce over them, any doubt vanished. The first bite was an explosion of flavors: the savory, slightly spicy sausage, the creamy cheese, and the subtle sweetness of the biscuit mix, all perfectly balanced by the zesty, bright lemon sauce. My family devoured them. Plates were emptied, seconds were grabbed, and requests for the recipe were immediate. This isn’t just another appetizer; it’s a flavor revelation, a surprisingly sophisticated yet incredibly easy dish that has become a staple in our house for gatherings, holidays, and even just a fun weekend brunch. Trust me, you need to try these Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce – they’re a game changer.

Ingredients

Creating the perfect Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce starts with understanding the role each ingredient plays. This recipe, while seemingly simple, benefits from carefully chosen components that contribute to the overall taste and texture. Let’s delve into each ingredient, exploring why they are essential and what qualities to look for when selecting them.

For the Sausage Balls:

• 1 pound Breakfast Sausage: The heart of our sausage balls, breakfast sausage provides the savory, meaty base. When choosing your sausage, consider the flavor profile you prefer. Mild breakfast sausage is a safe bet for those who prefer a less spicy dish, allowing the lemon sauce to truly shine. However, for those who enjoy a bit of heat, a hot breakfast sausage can add a delightful kick that contrasts beautifully with the bright lemon. Look for sausage that is labelled “breakfast sausage” and not just “ground pork,” as breakfast sausage contains specific seasonings like sage, thyme, and black pepper that are crucial for the characteristic sausage ball flavor. High-quality sausage, with a good fat content, will result in moist and flavorful sausage balls. Avoid overly lean sausage, as it can lead to drier balls. If you are particularly health-conscious, you can use turkey or chicken breakfast sausage, but be aware that the flavor profile will be slightly different, and you might need to adjust seasonings to achieve a similar depth of flavor.
• 2 cups Bisquick or Baking Mix: Bisquick or a similar baking mix is the magic ingredient that binds everything together and creates the perfect texture. These mixes are formulated with flour, leavening agents, and shortening, which contribute to a tender, slightly crumbly, yet cohesive texture in the sausage balls. Using Bisquick ensures consistency and eliminates the need to measure out multiple dry ingredients separately. If you don’t have Bisquick on hand, you can make your own baking mix substitute, but it’s generally easier to use a pre-made mix for guaranteed results, especially when aiming for a specific texture. Ensure your baking mix is fresh, as older mixes might lose their leavening power, resulting in denser sausage balls. Gluten-free baking mixes are available if you need to cater to dietary restrictions, but again, be mindful that the texture and flavor might slightly differ.
• 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheese is not just for flavor; it also adds moisture and binds the sausage balls. Cheddar cheese, particularly sharp cheddar, provides a robust, savory flavor that complements the sausage perfectly. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and often has a better flavor as it hasn’t been treated with anti-caking agents. For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of cheeses, such as cheddar and Monterey Jack, or even adding a touch of Parmesan for a salty, nutty note. The type of cheddar also matters; mild cheddar will be less pronounced, while extra sharp cheddar will provide a more intense cheesy flavor. Experiment with different cheddar varieties to find your preferred level of cheesy tang.
• ½ cup Milk (or Buttermilk for richer flavor): Liquid is essential for bringing the dough together and ensuring the sausage balls are moist. Milk is the standard choice and works perfectly well. However, for an extra layer of richness and a slightly tangy flavor, buttermilk can be used as a substitute. Buttermilk also contributes to a more tender texture. Whole milk will result in a richer, more flavorful sausage ball compared to skim milk, but any type of milk will work. If you are dairy-free, unsweetened almond milk or oat milk can be used as alternatives, although they might slightly alter the texture.

For the Lemon Sauce:

• ½ cup Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise forms the creamy base of the lemon sauce. Full-fat mayonnaise is recommended for the best flavor and texture, providing richness and body to the sauce. Light mayonnaise can be used to reduce calories, but the sauce might be slightly less creamy. High-quality mayonnaise, made with good oils, will result in a more flavorful sauce. Avoid salad dressing (like Miracle Whip) as a substitute, as it has a sweeter and tangier profile that is not ideal for this lemon sauce.
• ¼ cup Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed preferred): Fresh lemon juice is the star of the sauce, providing the bright, citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness of the sausage balls. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred for its vibrant and authentic flavor compared to bottled lemon juice, which can sometimes have a slightly metallic or artificial taste. One medium lemon usually yields about ¼ cup of juice. If using bottled lemon juice, choose a high-quality brand without added preservatives or sweeteners.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor to the lemon sauce, complementing the lemon juice and mayonnaise perfectly. Dijon mustard has a more complex and less vinegary flavor compared to yellow mustard. The slight sharpness of Dijon mustard enhances the overall flavor profile of the sauce without being overpowering. If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard in a pinch, but the flavor will be slightly different and less nuanced.
• 1 tablespoon Honey (or Maple Syrup for vegan option): A touch of sweetness balances the acidity of the lemon juice and the tang of the Dijon mustard, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Honey adds a natural sweetness and a subtle floral note that complements the lemon beautifully. For a vegan option, maple syrup works equally well, adding a slightly different but equally delicious sweetness with a hint of caramel. Agave nectar or even a pinch of granulated sugar can also be used as substitutes, but honey and maple syrup are generally preferred for their flavor complexity.
• 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest (optional, but highly recommended): Lemon zest, the finely grated outer skin of the lemon, intensifies the lemon flavor and adds a fragrant citrus aroma to the sauce. It contains the lemon’s essential oils, which provide a more concentrated and vibrant lemon flavor compared to just lemon juice. Use a microplane or a fine grater to zest the lemon, being careful to only grate the yellow part and avoid the white pith underneath, which can be bitter. Lemon zest is optional but highly recommended to elevate the lemon sauce to its full potential.
• Salt and Pepper to taste: Seasoning is crucial for bringing all the flavors together and ensuring the sauce is perfectly balanced. Salt enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients, while pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity. Start with a pinch of salt and pepper, taste the sauce, and adjust seasoning as needed. Remember that the sausage balls are also seasoned, so taste both the sauce and the sausage balls together to achieve the perfect balance. Freshly ground black pepper is preferred for its bolder flavor.

By carefully selecting each of these ingredients and understanding their roles, you’ll be well on your way to creating Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce that are bursting with flavor and have the perfect texture.

Instructions

Crafting these delectable Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce is surprisingly straightforward, making them an ideal choice for both novice and experienced cooks. Follow these detailed step-by-step instructions to ensure success, and you’ll be enjoying these savory bites in no time.

Making the Sausage Balls:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the sausage balls in, promoting even cooking and preventing them from spreading too much. While the oven is preheating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat. This will prevent the sausage balls from sticking to the baking sheet and make cleanup much easier. Parchment paper is a great option as it is disposable, while a silicone mat is reusable and eco-friendly.
2. Combine Sausage and Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, crumble the pound of breakfast sausage. Ensure the sausage is evenly distributed throughout the bowl. Add the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl with the sausage. Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, mix the sausage and cheese together until they are thoroughly combined. The cheese should be evenly dispersed throughout the sausage mixture. This step is crucial for ensuring each sausage ball has a good balance of sausage and cheese.
3. Add Baking Mix and Milk: To the sausage and cheese mixture, add the 2 cups of Bisquick or baking mix. Pour in the ½ cup of milk (or buttermilk if using). Using your hands, a spatula, or a wooden spoon, mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the baking mix, resulting in tougher sausage balls. Mix until the dry ingredients are just incorporated and a dough begins to form. The dough should be moist but not overly sticky. If the dough seems too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it comes together. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon of baking mix at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
4. Form the Sausage Balls: Once the dough is mixed, it’s time to shape the sausage balls. Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them between your palms to form balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly. Place the formed sausage balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. This spacing allows for proper air circulation around each ball, promoting even browning.
5. Bake the Sausage Balls: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of the sausage balls. To ensure they are cooked through, you can insert a toothpick into the center of a sausage ball; it should come out clean. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
6. Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This allows them to firm up slightly and makes them easier to handle. While the sausage balls are cooling, you can prepare the lemon sauce, if you haven’t already.

Making the Lemon Sauce:

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of honey (or maple syrup), and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest (if using). Whisk until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add a pinch of salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
2. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the lemon sauce and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a tangier sauce, add a little more lemon juice. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a touch more honey or maple syrup. If you want more depth of flavor, add a pinch of salt and pepper. The beauty of this sauce is that it can be easily customized to your taste preferences.
3. Serve with Sausage Balls: Once the sausage balls have cooled slightly and the lemon sauce is prepared, it’s time to serve. You can drizzle the lemon sauce over the warm sausage balls just before serving, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Serving the sauce on the side allows guests to control how much sauce they want on their sausage balls.

Following these detailed instructions will guide you through each step of making Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce, ensuring a delicious and successful outcome every time. Enjoy the process and the incredible flavors you are about to create!

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your food is important, especially when considering dietary needs or simply being mindful of what you consume. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce. Please note that these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, sausage fat content, and serving sizes.

Servings: Approximately 24 sausage balls (recipe yields about 2 dozen 1-1.5 inch balls)

Serving Size: 2-3 sausage balls

Approximate Nutrition per Serving (2-3 sausage balls, excluding lemon sauce):

• Calories: 150-200
• Fat: 10-14g
  • Saturated Fat: 5-8g
• Cholesterol: 40-60mg
• Sodium: 300-400mg
• Carbohydrates: 8-12g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Sugar: 1-2g
• Protein: 6-8g

Approximate Nutrition per Serving (1 tablespoon Lemon Sauce):

• Calories: 50-70
• Fat: 5-7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1-2g
• Cholesterol: 5-10mg
• Sodium: 50-70mg
• Carbohydrates: 2-4g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Sugar: 2-3g
• Protein: <1g

Total Approximate Nutrition per Serving (2-3 sausage balls with 1 tablespoon lemon sauce):

• Calories: 200-270
• Fat: 15-21g
  • Saturated Fat: 6-10g
• Cholesterol: 45-70mg
• Sodium: 350-470mg
• Carbohydrates: 10-16g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Sugar: 3-5g
• Protein: 6-8g

Important Notes:

• These values are estimates and can vary. For more precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the exact brands and quantities of ingredients used.
• Using leaner sausage or light mayonnaise can reduce the fat and calorie content.
• Serving size significantly impacts nutritional values. Adjust serving size according to your dietary needs.
• This recipe is relatively high in fat and sodium due to the sausage and cheese. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

While Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce are a delicious treat, being aware of their nutritional content allows you to make informed choices and enjoy them responsibly within your overall dietary plan.

Preparation Time

One of the great advantages of Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce is their relatively quick preparation time. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, this recipe doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the time you can expect to spend preparing this delightful dish:

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes

• Ingredient Gathering and Measuring: 5-7 minutes. This includes pulling out all the necessary ingredients from your pantry and refrigerator, and measuring them out. Having everything pre-measured and ready to go streamlines the process.
• Mixing Sausage Ball Ingredients: 5-7 minutes. Crumbling the sausage, shredding cheese (if not pre-shredded), and combining all the sausage ball ingredients in a bowl takes about this time. Mixing until just combined is key to avoid overworking the dough.
• Forming Sausage Balls: 5-6 minutes. Scooping and rolling the sausage balls into shape takes a few minutes, especially if you are aiming for uniform sizes. Using a cookie scoop can speed up this process.
• Lemon Sauce Preparation: (Can be done simultaneously or after sausage balls are in the oven) 5 minutes. Whisking together the lemon sauce ingredients is quick and easy. This can be done while the sausage balls are baking to maximize efficiency.

Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

• Baking in the Oven: 20-25 minutes. This is the time the sausage balls spend baking in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown and cooked through. Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on them and adjust baking time as needed.

Total Time: 35-45 minutes

From start to finish, you can expect to have Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce ready to serve in under 45 minutes. This includes both the preparation and cooking time. The hands-on time is even less, as much of the time is spent waiting for the oven to do its work.

Make-Ahead Tip:

To further reduce preparation time on the day of serving, you can prepare the sausage ball mixture ahead of time. Mix all the sausage ball ingredients, form the balls, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge. The lemon sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

The quick preparation time, coupled with the delicious flavor, makes Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce a perfect choice for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or whenever you need a flavorful and satisfying appetizer or snack without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways, making them suitable for different occasions and meal types. Here are some ideas on how to best serve and present these delightful bites:

• As an Appetizer:
  • Party Platter: Arrange the warm sausage balls on a platter, drizzled with lemon sauce, and garnished with fresh parsley or lemon zest. Serve with toothpicks or small skewers for easy grabbing.
  • Mini Skewers: Thread sausage balls onto small skewers, alternating with cherry tomatoes or small cubes of cheese for a visually appealing and easy-to-eat appetizer. Serve lemon sauce on the side for dipping.
  • Individual Cups: For a more elegant presentation, place a few sausage balls in small appetizer cups or ramekins and drizzle generously with lemon sauce.
• For Brunch or Breakfast:
  • Brunch Buffet: Include sausage balls as part of a brunch buffet alongside other breakfast favorites like scrambled eggs, bacon, fruit salad, and pastries. The savory sausage balls offer a delightful contrast to sweeter brunch items.
  • Breakfast Side: Serve a couple of sausage balls as a savory side dish with eggs, pancakes, or waffles for a hearty and flavorful breakfast.
  • Sausage Ball Benedict: Get creative and use sausage balls as the base for a unique Eggs Benedict. Top with a poached egg and hollandaise sauce (or even more lemon sauce for a citrusy twist).
• As a Snack:
  • Afternoon Treat: Enjoy a few sausage balls as a satisfying afternoon snack to tide you over until dinner. They are more substantial than many snacks and provide protein and energy.
  • Game Day Snack: Sausage balls are perfect for game day gatherings. Serve them warm with lemon sauce alongside other game day favorites like wings, nachos, and chips and dip.
• Serving Temperature:
  • Warm is Best: Sausage balls are best served warm, ideally shortly after baking. The warmth enhances their flavor and texture.
  • Room Temperature Option: They can also be enjoyed at room temperature, although they are slightly less flavorful than when warm.
  • Reheating: If making ahead, reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating, which can dry them out.
• Sauce Presentation:
  • Drizzled Over: Drizzle the lemon sauce generously over the sausage balls just before serving for a beautiful presentation and to ensure each bite is saucy.
  • Served on the Side: Offer the lemon sauce in a small bowl or ramekin on the side for dipping. This allows guests to control the amount of sauce they prefer.
  • Individual Sauce Cups: For larger gatherings, provide individual small cups of lemon sauce for each guest to easily dip their sausage balls.

No matter how you choose to serve them, Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce are sure to be a hit. Their savory, cheesy flavor and bright citrusy sauce make them a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce are absolutely perfect every time, consider these helpful tips and tricks:

1. Don’t Overmix the Dough: When mixing the sausage ball ingredients, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the baking mix, which can result in tough, dense sausage balls. A lightly mixed dough will yield tender and crumbly sausage balls.
2. Use a Cookie Scoop for Uniformity: For consistently sized sausage balls that cook evenly, use a cookie scoop (about 1-1.5 inch size) to portion out the dough. This ensures each ball is the same size, leading to even baking and a more professional presentation.
3. Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the sausage ball mixture before baking and the lemon sauce before serving and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage balls for extra flavor. For the lemon sauce, adjust lemon juice, honey, or Dijon mustard to achieve your preferred balance of flavors.
4. Make-Ahead for Convenience: Sausage balls can be made ahead of time. Prepare the sausage ball mixture, form the balls, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake the sausage balls ahead of time and reheat them gently before serving. The lemon sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
5. Experiment with Cheese and Sausage Varieties: While cheddar and breakfast sausage are classic choices, feel free to experiment with different cheeses and sausage types to customize the flavor. Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick, Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or a blend of cheeses. You can also try different types of sausage, such as Italian sausage (remove casings and use ground meat) for a different flavor profile. Spicy Italian sausage can be particularly delicious with the lemon sauce.

These additional tips will help you elevate your Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce from delicious to exceptional, ensuring a consistently perfect and flavorful result every time you make them.

FAQ Section

Got questions about Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make this recipe with confidence:

Q1: Can I freeze Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce?

A: Yes, sausage balls freeze very well! Bake them as directed, let them cool completely, and then freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. The lemon sauce is best made fresh, but you can freeze it separately in an airtight container, though the texture may slightly change upon thawing.

Q2: Can I make Sausage Balls with gluten-free baking mix?

A: Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free baking mix for Bisquick in this recipe. Ensure you use a reputable gluten-free baking mix blend designed for biscuits or general baking. The texture might be slightly different, but they will still be delicious. Always check the ingredients of your baking mix to ensure it meets your dietary needs.

Q3: Can I make Sausage Balls without cheese?

A: While cheese adds flavor and moisture to sausage balls, you can make them without cheese if needed. However, they might be slightly drier and less flavorful. To compensate, you could add a tablespoon of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture to help with moisture and richness.

Q4: Can I use a different type of mustard in the lemon sauce?

A: Dijon mustard is recommended for its balanced flavor, but you can experiment with other types of mustard. Yellow mustard will provide a tangier and less complex flavor. Stone-ground mustard can add a rustic texture and bolder flavor. Honey mustard can enhance the sweetness of the sauce. Adjust the amount of mustard to taste based on the type you use.

Q5: How long do Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce last in the refrigerator?

A: Cooked sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them gently in the oven, microwave, or air fryer until warmed through before serving. The lemon sauce should also be stored in the refrigerator and is best used within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

We hope these FAQs have answered your questions and provided you with the confidence to create your own batch of delicious Sausage Balls with Lemon Sauce. Enjoy cooking and even more, enjoy eating!

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