Whataburger Sausage Balls Recipe
I remember the first time I tried Whataburger sausage balls. It was a chilly Saturday morning, and brunch was on my mind. My friend whipped up a batch for us; the smell wafted through the house, promising warmth and flavor.
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Servings: 24 Servings
Calories: 320kcal
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked breakfast sausage
- 3 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup whole milk or 2% milk
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder for a savory depth of flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a spicy kick
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. It’s crucial to ensure that your oven is ready to go before you mix your ingredients. This helps achieve that sought-after golden brown on the outside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage
- In a large bowl, add the uncooked breakfast sausage. Use your hands (yes, it’s messy but effective!) to break it apart and start mixing in the other ingredients.
Step 3: Mix in the Cheeses
- Add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan into the sausage mixture. Fold them in well. This is key because you want cheese in every bite!
Step 4: Combine the Bisquick Mix
- Now, sprinkle in the Bisquick mix. Again, use your hands to thoroughly combine everything. The consistency should start to feel pliable. It should retain a bit of moisture but not be overly sticky.
Step 5: Add Liquid Ingredients
- Pour in the milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if you are using it). Mix gently until combined. This will give the sausage balls that extra flavor.
Step 6: Shape the Balls
- Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into golf ball-sized balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between them for even cooking.
Step 7: Bake
- Slide the baking sheet into the oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the sausage balls are crispy and golden brown. You’ll want to turn them halfway through for an even finish.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, but trust me; they still taste fantastic when cooled.
Notes
Here are five tips for success when making Whataburger sausage balls:
- Use Good-Quality Sausage: The better the sausage, the better the flavor. Try to find sausage with herbs and spices for an extra punch.
- Grate Cheese Fresh: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Grate your cheese from a block for the best results.
- Don’t Overmix: Just mix until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough sausage balls.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to play with the spices. If you like more heat, add more cayenne. Enjoy customizing your dish!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare these sausage balls in advance. Just refrigerate the formed balls overnight or freeze them. Just bake when you’re ready.