If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with cheesy, savory goodness and a fresh pop of herbaceous flavor, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Air Fryer Sausage Balls with Cheddar Cheese and Parsley Recipe. Imagine golden-brown, perfectly cooked sausage balls with a melty cheddar core and just the right hint of parsley to brighten every bite. The magic happens in the air fryer, which crisps the outside beautifully without drying them out. Whether you’re prepping for a party, a game day gathering, or just a cozy snack at home, these sausage balls deliver the perfect combo of ease, taste, and flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple but each plays a crucial role in shaping the flavor, texture, and vibrant appearance of your sausage balls. From the rich pork sausage that brings meaty depth, to the sharp cheddar that adds gooey cheesiness, every component complements the others beautifully.
- Mild pork sausage: Provides the juicy, savory foundation with just enough seasoning.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts inside to give that irresistible cheesy pull with sharp flavor.
- Bisquick baking mix: Acts as the binder to hold everything together while keeping the texture tender.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal brightness that balances the richness.
- Red pepper flakes: Bring a subtle kick of heat to liven up each bite—adjust to your spice preference.
- Ketchup: Used later as a dipping sauce base, offering sweet tang and moisture.
- Sweet chili sauce: Adds a perfect blend of sweetness and gentle heat for dipping.
How to Make Air Fryer Sausage Balls with Cheddar Cheese and Parsley Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket
Start by giving your air fryer basket a light spritz with olive oil spray. This prevents the sausage balls from sticking and ensures they cook evenly with a perfectly crisp outside.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently combine the mild pork sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick baking mix, freshly chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes. Be careful not to overmix—just enough to blend ingredients together without making the sausage balls tough.
Step 3: Form the Sausage Balls
Using a tablespoon measure or your hands, scoop out portions roughly the size of a golf ball and roll them smoothly between your palms. This step is what gives your sausage balls their uniform, bite-sized shape and even cooking.
Step 4: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Place as many sausage balls as fit comfortably into your air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between them for air circulation. Overcrowding will prevent them from crisping properly.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the sausage balls for 10 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer shows they’ve reached 160 degrees internally. This guarantees they’re juicy and fully cooked through.
Step 6: Keep Warm if Cooking in Batches
If you need to cook in multiple batches, simply transfer the cooked sausage balls to a baking sheet and keep warm in a 200-degree oven for up to 30 minutes. This keeps them hot and fresh without drying out.
Step 7: Get Ready to Enjoy
Your sausage balls can be served warm, straight from the air fryer, or at room temperature—both are delicious. They’re perfect finger food for any occasion.
How to Serve Air Fryer Sausage Balls with Cheddar Cheese and Parsley Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple yet fresh touch, sprinkle extra chopped parsley on top right before serving to bring a lovely green pop and brighten the rich flavors. A dash of cracked black pepper or a small drizzle of hot sauce can also amp up the visual appeal and taste.
Side Dishes
Pair these savory bites with tangy dipping sauces like a combo of ketchup and sweet chili sauce for a perfect sweet and spicy contrast. Fresh veggie sticks or a crisp side salad can balance the richness with refreshing crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, serve the sausage balls on a platter with toothpicks and bowls of multiple dipping sauces for variety. You can also skewer them with cherry tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean-inspired twist. Mini sliders using the sausage balls as patties and slider buns make for fun handheld treats everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. When properly stored, the sausage balls maintain their flavor and texture beautifully, ready for quick snacking.
Freezing
These sausage balls freeze wonderfully. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and can be cooked straight from frozen with a few extra minutes in the air fryer.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the sausage balls back in the air fryer at 350 degrees for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. You can also warm them in a conventional oven or microwave, but the air fryer is best for preserving that fresh-cooked texture.
FAQs
Can I use spicy sausage instead of mild in this recipe?
Absolutely! Using spicy sausage will give your sausage balls a bolder kick, which pairs wonderfully with the cheddar and parsley. Just adjust the red pepper flakes accordingly if you want to control the heat level.
Is it necessary to use Bisquick, or can I use a gluten-free alternative?
Bisquick works well as a binder and adds tenderness, but you can swap in a gluten-free baking mix if needed. Just make sure it behaves similarly to hold the sausage balls together without becoming crumbly.
Can I make these sausage balls without an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, baking them in a conventional oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 to 20 minutes will also work. Keep an eye on them to ensure they brown nicely without drying out.
What’s the best way to ensure sausage balls aren’t dry?
Gentle mixing and not overcooking are key. Mix the ingredients just until combined and monitor your cooking time carefully. An internal temperature of 160 degrees ensures perfect doneness without dryness.
How can I tweak this Air Fryer Sausage Balls with Cheddar Cheese and Parsley Recipe for a vegan version?
Making a vegan version would require substituting the sausage for a plant-based alternative, using vegan cheese, and a suitable gluten-free binder. The air fryer method remains the same, but texture and flavor will naturally vary.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something about these Air Fryer Sausage Balls with Cheddar Cheese and Parsley Recipe that makes them truly irresistible. They combine ease, flavor, and versatility in one neat little bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, these sausage balls are a worthy addition to your recipe collection—the kind that’ll keep everyone asking for more. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear!
