Pancake Sausage Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is all about convenience and great taste. It requires simple ingredients and just one bowl for mixing, making cleanup a breeze. The flavor is a crowd-pleasing mix of savory, cheesy goodness with a hint of sweetness if you choose to serve them with maple syrup. Plus, they’re portable, making them perfect for on-the-go breakfasts or snack-time treats.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound breakfast sausage, uncooked
1 ½ cups pancake mix
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
½ cup milk
1 large egg
½ teaspoon black pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Maple syrup, for serving (optional)

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, add the uncooked breakfast sausage and break it apart with your hands.

3. Add the pancake mix, shredded cheese, milk, egg, black pepper, and garlic powder to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

4. Scoop out small handfuls of the mixture and roll them into balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm, optionally drizzled with maple syrup.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 sausage balls. It takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, for a total time of around 35 minutes.

Variations

• Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

• Different cheese: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda for unique flavors.

• Sweet twist: Mix a tablespoon of maple syrup into the batter for a touch of sweetness.

• Vegetarian option: Use plant-based sausage alternatives.

• Mini version: Make smaller balls for bite-sized appetizers, adjusting baking time slightly.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for about 8–10 minutes or microwave individual balls for about 30 seconds until heated through. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Can I use cooked sausage for this recipe?

No, uncooked sausage is necessary to help bind the mixture together properly during baking.

What kind of pancake mix works best?

Any standard pancake mix will work, whether it’s buttermilk, complete, or traditional.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix and form the balls ahead and refrigerate them until ready to bake.

How do I know when they’re fully cooked?

They should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I use turkey sausage instead?

Absolutely, turkey sausage is a leaner alternative that works just as well.

How can I keep them warm for serving?

Place them in a warm oven (around 200°F) covered lightly with foil until ready to serve.

What cheeses work best?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack are great choices depending on your flavor preference.

Can I freeze the uncooked balls?

Yes, you can freeze them uncooked. Bake from frozen, adding about 5 extra minutes to the cook time.

What are good dipping sauces besides maple syrup?

Honey mustard, ranch, or even spicy aioli pair wonderfully with these sausage balls.

How big should the sausage balls be?

Aim for about golf ball size for even cooking and a perfect bite.

Conclusion

Pancake Sausage Balls are a simple yet irresistible recipe that brings together savory, cheesy, and sweet flavors in every bite. Quick to make and loved by all ages, they’re perfect for everything from busy mornings to brunch parties. Try them once, and you’ll find yourself making them again and again!