Cheddar Bay Sausage Bites Recipe – Easy & Delicious Appetizer

There’s just something magical about game day food. It’s comforting, indulgent, and always a hit with a crowd. These Cheddar Bay Sausage Bites fit the bill perfectly. Imagine all the buttery, cheesy goodness of Red Lobster’s famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits transformed into irresistible, savory sausage bites. They’re so good, you might find yourself sneaking a few before they even make it to the table.

Whether you’re hosting a watch party or just looking for a quick and easy appetizer, these sausage bites are a game-changer. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they’ll have everyone asking for the recipe. Plus, they’re bite-sized, which means they’re perfect for popping into your mouth during those nail-biting moments of the game.

And the best part? No fancy skills are required. If you’ve ever made biscuits or meatballs, you’ve got this. Let me share why these little bites of cheesy, sausage-y goodness have become my go-to for game days, potlucks, and beyond.

Why You’ll Love These Cheddar Bay Sausage Bites

Let’s talk about why these are worth every bite:

• Easy to Make: No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. Just mix, roll, and bake.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and the signature garlic-herb seasoning of Cheddar Bay Biscuits is downright irresistible.
• Perfect for Parties: These are the ultimate finger food. No utensils are needed, which makes them ideal for gatherings.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer mild sausage, a spicier kick, or even a vegetarian option, there’s room to tweak the recipe to suit your taste.

Picture this: golden, cheesy sausage bites with a slightly crisp exterior and a tender, flavor-packed center. Paired with a side of creamy ranch dressing, they’re everything you want in a snack and more.

The Secret Ingredient: Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix

If you’ve ever had Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuits, you already know the hype is real. That same mix—with its iconic cheesy, garlicky, buttery flavor—serves as the base for these sausage bites. It adds a unique twist that elevates this recipe from standard sausage balls to something truly special.

The Perfect Game Day Snack

Game days are all about keeping things casual yet fun, and that’s exactly what these sausage bites deliver. They’re the kind of food that people keep reaching for, whether they’re celebrating a touchdown or trying to distract themselves during a tense moment.

I love making these for Sunday football games at home. They’re quick to prepare, bake in just 20 minutes, and disappear just as fast. Plus, they’re portable, which means you can easily take them to a friend’s house or a tailgate party.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Sausage Balls:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – This adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture together.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar works best for a bold, cheesy flavor.
• 16 oz hot  sausage – For a spicy kick. You can use mild sausage if you prefer less heat.
• 11.36 oz box of Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix – This includes the seasoning packet, which is essential for that signature flavor.
• ½ tsp garlic powder – For an extra layer of savory goodness.
• ½ tsp onion powder – Enhances the flavor of the sausage.
• ½ tsp salt – Balances the flavors.

For Serving:

• Ranch dressing – Optional, but highly recommended for dipping.

How to Make Cheddar Bay Sausage Bites

Let’s break it down into simple steps.

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key to achieving a golden, slightly crispy exterior.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and hot  sausage. The cream cheese should be at room temperature to make mixing easier.

Next, add the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix along with the seasoning packet, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Use a sturdy spatula or your hands to mix everything until well incorporated. It might feel sticky, but that’s what you want.

3. Shape the Sausage Balls

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly.

Place the sausage balls onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.

4. Bake

Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the sausage is fully cooked. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen smells amazing.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Remove the sausage bites from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with ranch dressing on the side for dipping.

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your Cheddar Bay Sausage Bites turn out perfectly every time? Here are a few tips:

• Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This ensures it mixes smoothly with the other ingredients.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined. Overworking the mixture can make the bites dense.
• Line Your Baking Sheet: Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Cook a Test Ball: If you’re unsure about the seasoning, bake one sausage ball first, taste it, and adjust the seasoning in the remaining mixture if needed.

Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Mild Version: Use regular sausage instead of hot.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella.

How to Serve Cheddar Bay Sausage Bites

These sausage bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in several ways:

• With Dips: Ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or even honey mustard work wonderfully.
• On a Platter: Arrange them alongside other finger foods like wings, sliders, and veggie sticks.
• Over Pasta: Yes, you can use these as a topping for creamy pasta dishes for a fun twist.

Storing and Reheating

Storing:

If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Reheating:

To reheat, place the sausage bites on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes. This helps maintain their texture.

Freezing:

You can also freeze these sausage bites. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to three months. When ready to serve, bake them from frozen at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.

Game Day Pairings

These sausage bites are a hit on their own, but they shine even brighter when paired with other game day favorites. Here are a few ideas:

• Loaded Nachos: Add some cheesy nachos to the table for a winning combo.
• Buffalo Wings: The classic game day snack pairs perfectly with these bites.
• Drinks: Serve with ice-cold sodas, lemonade, or sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.

FAQ

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the sausage balls, refrigerate them overnight, and bake them fresh on game day.

Can I use a different biscuit mix?
While Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix gives the best flavor, other biscuit mixes can work in a pinch. Just add some garlic powder and shredded cheddar to mimic the flavor.

What if I don’t like spicy sausage?
No problem! Swap the hot sausage for mild or even turkey sausage for a lighter option.

Final Thoughts

Cheddar Bay Sausage Bites are everything you want in a game day snack—easy, delicious, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or just enjoying the commercials, these sausage bites are the perfect addition to your snack spread.

I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! If you try this recipe, snap a pic and tag me on social media. Let’s make your next game day one to remember!

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