Red Lobster's cheddar bay biscuits are legendary, but did you know their sausage balls are equally crave-worthy? While the restaurant doesn't publicly share its recipe, countless devoted fans have attempted to recreate this savory delight. This blog post offers a copycat recipe that elevates the classic sausage ball with the addition of cream cheese, resulting in a richer, more decadent flavor and texture. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible appetizer!
What Makes These Sausage Balls Special?
These aren't your average sausage balls. The addition of cream cheese adds a delightful creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together, resulting in a moist, flavorful ball that's both satisfying and easy to eat. We've also focused on achieving that perfect balance of savory sausage, sharp cheddar, and subtle herbs, mirroring the rumored flavor profile of the Red Lobster version.
Red Lobster Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese: The Recipe
Yields: Approximately 24 sausage balls Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your preference)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for added freshness)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, flour, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. If using, stir in the green onions.
- Shape the balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Bake: Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy! These are delicious on their own or with a dipping sauce like ranch dressing or honey mustard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions surrounding sausage ball recipes and their variations.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Italian sausage, chorizo, or even a vegetarian sausage crumble could be used instead of breakfast sausage. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will change depending on the sausage you choose.
How can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the sausage ball mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply shape the balls and bake them when you're ready to serve. You can also bake them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or microwave.
What kind of cheese can I substitute for cheddar?
Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses would also work well. Experiment to find your favorite combination!
Can I freeze these sausage balls?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked sausage balls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag for longer storage. Bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
Are these sausage balls gluten-free?
No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour. To make gluten-free sausage balls, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Tips for Success
- Don't overmix the dough. Overmixing can result in tough sausage balls.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure a smooth mixture.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
- For crispier sausage balls, bake them on a wire rack placed on top of the baking sheet.
This recipe provides a delicious and relatively easy way to recreate the magic of Red Lobster's rumored sausage balls, with the added richness of cream cheese. Enjoy experimenting with variations and finding your perfect combination of flavors! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!
