This Deer Sausage Balls Recipe (Bisquick Sausage Balls) is a holiday appetizer staple and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Deer Sausage Balls
The holidays are a time for gathering, sharing, and - let’s be honest - eating. If you’re like me, the festive season also means struggling to find creative ways to use that venison in your freezer. Enter the deer sausage balls recipe! These Bisquick sausage balls are the perfect appetizer for feeding a crowd, whether it’s family at a holiday dinner or coworkers at a potluck.
With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll whip up a savory, cheesy, bite-sized treat that’s as easy on your wallet as it is on your schedule.
Why You'll Love These Bisquick Sausage Balls
This recipe is loved by busy home cooks and hunters alike. It’s quick, affordable, and uses pantry items you probably already have. Plus, it’s a great way to use some of that venison sausage from last year you are trying to clean out of the freezer before filling it up again with this year's deer.
These sausage balls are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with cheesy goodness - making them a hit at any party or holiday gathering. Even better? They’re freezer-friendly, so you can make them ahead of time and bake when needed.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious deer sausage balls:
- 3 cups Bisquick: This classic baking mix gives the sausage balls their light and fluffy texture.
- 2 pounds venison breakfast sausage: The star of the show!
- 16 ounces Cheddar cheese, grated: For that melty, cheesy bite in every ball.
- ¾ cup milk: To bring the dough together and keep it moist.
- 2 teaspoons each Worcestershire and Dijon Mustard: Adds a little zing.
- 2 teaspoons Good Seasons Zesty Italian Seasoning: More flavor with every bite.
Easy Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients: Bisquick, venison sausage, grated Cheddar cheese, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix until everything is evenly incorporated. The dough will be sticky but firm enough to shape.
3. Shape the Sausage Balls
Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into golf ball-sized balls. Place them on the parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart to allow for even cooking.
4. Bake to Perfection
Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145 degrees F. This step guarantees the venison sausage is safely cooked.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm but are just as tasty at room temperature. Serve them as-is or with your favorite dipping sauce, like honey mustard or ranch.
Tips For Success
- Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture. Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds a creamier flavor.
- Don’t overmix: Overworking the dough can make the sausage balls dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Make ahead: Prepare the sausage balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Why This Recipe Is Great For The Holidays
The holidays are a whirlwind of activity, and this sausage ball recipe is a lifesaver. It’s budget-friendly, which is perfect after spending on gifts for the kids. It’s also quick to prepare, leaving you with more time to enjoy with family. Plus, the combination of venison sausage and cheese gives these sausage balls a unique flavor that stands out on any appetizer table.
More Christmas Recipes Using Deer Sausage
If you are looking for a new Christmas recipe idea and a great way to use some of that deer sausage in your freezer, check out my:
Deer Sausage and Cheese Crescent Ring
Deer Sausage Cranberry Cream Cheese Bites
Venison Sausage Croissant Breakfast Casserole
Come Deer Hunting in North Dakota
If you are headed our way for North Dakota deer season, check out the North Dakota Game & Fish Department website. And if you want me to come along with you as your camp cook, photographer, or butcher, you can find out more details here.
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How to Make Deer Sausage Balls Recipe (Bisquick Sausage Balls)
Ingredients
- 3 cups Bisquick
- 2 pounds venison breakfast sausage
- 16 ounces Cheddar cheese, grated
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Good Seasons Zesty Italian Seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large bowl mix together all ingredients into a batter.
- Shape mixture into golf ball-sized balls and arrange on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature is at least 145 degrees F using an instant-read meat thermometer.
Melissa Battle says
I made these with the deer/venison that my son and husband killed. I took them to Christmas dinner and everyone was saying that they were the best sausage balls they had ever eaten both regular and venison
Jeff Benda says
Thanks Melissa! So glad they were a big hit at Christmas dinner.