Jalapeno Pepper Jack Sausage Balls Recipe
Introduction
Jalapeno Pepper Jack Sausage Balls are a spicy, cheesy snack that’s perfect for parties or game day. These bite-sized treats combine savory sausage with creamy cheese and a kick of jalapeno for a deliciously satisfying appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. mild sausage
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 2 1/2 c. Bisquick baking mix
- 2 c. grated Pepper Jack cheese
- 3 T. chopped pickled jalapeno OR 1 (4.5 oz.) can chopped green chilies
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, mix all ingredients until well combined.
- Step 2: Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in size. Using a small cookie scoop can help make this easier.
- Step 3: Place the sausage balls on a foil-lined baking pan that has been lightly sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
- Step 4: Bake at 400℉ until cooked through and lightly browned, about 20 minutes.
- Step 5: If making ahead, refrigerate or freeze the sausage balls. When ready to serve, thaw if needed and reheat in a 350℉ oven for about 5 minutes.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra kick, use pickled jalapenos instead of canned green chilies—they add more spice and a tangy flavor.
- Try mixing in some finely chopped onions or garlic for additional depth of flavor.
- Use sharp cheddar instead of Pepper Jack for a milder, classic cheese taste.
Storage
Store the cooked sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm in a 350℉ oven for about 5 minutes until heated through.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use spicy sausage instead of mild?
Yes, using spicy sausage will increase the heat level, making the sausage balls more flavorful and spicy.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can form the sausage balls and store them in the refrigerator or freezer before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
PrintJalapeno Pepper Jack Sausage Balls Recipe
Jalapeno Pepper Jack Sausage Balls are a flavorful and spicy appetizer combining mild sausage, creamy cheese, and a kick of jalapeno. Perfect for parties or game day, these bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 sausage balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb. mild sausage
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 2 1/2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 2 cups grated Pepper Jack cheese
- 3 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapeno OR 1 (4.5 oz.) can chopped green chilies
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mild sausage, softened cream cheese, Bisquick baking mix, grated Pepper Jack cheese, and chopped pickled jalapenos or green chilies. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined to create a uniform mixture.
- Form Balls: Shape the mixture into small, approximately 1-inch-sized balls. Using a small cookie scoop can simplify the forming process and ensure uniform size for even cooking.
- Bake: Arrange the sausage balls on a foil-lined baking pan that has been lightly sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Place in a preheated oven at 400°F and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
- Make Ahead and Reheat: The sausage balls can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. When ready to serve, thaw if frozen, then reheat in a 350°F oven for approximately 5 minutes to warm through.
- Serve and Enjoy: These sausage balls are perfect served warm. Using pickled jalapenos gives them a slightly spicier flavor compared to green chilies, which is preferred for those who like a bit more heat.
Notes
- Use a cookie scoop to make shaping the sausage balls easier and consistent in size.
- For a milder version, substitute pickled jalapenos with canned chopped green chilies.
- You can prepare sausage balls ahead and freeze them for convenient snacking later.
- Reheat thawed sausage balls in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes rather than microwaving to keep texture crisp.
- If using frozen sausage balls, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Keywords: Sausage Balls, Jalapeno, Pepper Jack, Appetizer, Party Food, Spicy Snacks, Baking
