Theres something special about Red Lobster sausage balls that makes them a hit at parties and family dinners. These little balls mix juicy sausage and cheese then bake up golden and tasty. You can serve them at a birthday party, on a holiday table, or even just for a weeknight snack. Folks cant seems to get enough of them.
Sausage balls are fun cause they are soft inside but a little crisp outside. You can make them mild or spic dependin on what you like, so they work for any party. People often think of this snack as part of Southern cooking, cause thats where it all started. At Red Lobster, they made them famous by mixing that homey taste with their seafood menu, giving people a new twist to try.
Introduction to Red Lobster Sausage Balls
If youve ever been looking for an easy snack that pleases a crowd, these sausage balls might be it. Red Lobster added them on the menu so folks can get a break from seafood now and then. They mixes sausage, cheese, and a few simple pantry items to make a bite size treat thats hard to resist.
Theyre perfect cause you dont need fancy skills to cook them. Mix, roll, and bake is all it takes. Then everyone gets a warm, cheesy ball thats a little crispy on the outside and gooey inside. Its a taste of the South meets a bit of fun from your favorite seafood place.
History of Sausage Balls
Long ago in Southern kitchens, home cooks found they could mix leftover sausage, cheese, and biscuit mix to make these snack balls. It was a handy trick when money and time was tight. Over time, this simple recipe spread from family kitchens to potlucks and big events.
People loved how quick they could make these sausage balls and how good they tasted. Soon, supermarkets started selling ready mix just for sausage balls. Now they pops up at holiday parties, Super Bowl get togethers, and church suppers across the South.
Every cook made them a bit different. Some add jalapenos, others use cream cheese or pepper jack to kick up the flavor. Even today, youll find lots of recipes online and in cookbooks that show new ways to spin on the old classic.
Overview of Red Lobster and Its Popularity
Red Lobster opened its first restuarant in 1968 and now theres over 700 spots in the US and other countries. Its known for seafood like lobster, shrimp, and crab that they try to get from sustainable sources. Many diners feel good eating there because they know the fish is handled right.
But those little sausage balls are a special treat that surprises folks when they first see them on a seafood menu. They pack a punch of meaty, cheesy flavor that starts your meal off right. Its proof that Red Lobster likes to have a bit of fun with its food.
The restaurants has a chill vibe with warm lights and friendly servers. You can take your family, your date, or friends to celebrate somethin or just eat some tasty bites. With deals like Endless Shrimp or seasonal dishes, people keep coming back for another round.
Ingredients for Red Lobster Sausage Balls
4.1 List of Ingredients
To make these sausage balls youll need:
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 1 cup shredded chedder cheese
- 1 cup biscuit mix
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
4.2 Optional Ingredients Variations
You can mix things up by adding:
- Different types of cheese like pepper jack, cream cheese, or mozzrella for exra flavor
- Fresh herbs like parley or chives for a pop of green
- Chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes if you want heat
- Bacon bits for a smoky twist
Detailed Recipe for Red Lobster Sausage Balls
5.1 Preparation Time
It takes about 15 minutes to get everythin ready.
5.2 Cooking Time
Bake them about 20 to 25 minutes till they turn golden brown.
5.3 Directions
Follow these steps:
- Preheat yur oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a big bowl, mix ground sausage, chedder cheese, biscuit mix, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Use your hands or a spoon to mix, but dont overmix.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they spot a little brown outside and no pink inside.
- Take them out and let cool a couple minutes before you grab one.
5.4 Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing
- Put veggie sticks on the side and a creamy dip
- Arrange on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for looks
Nutritional Information
Each sausage ball has about 80-100 calories, with around 5-6 grams of protein, 6-7 grams of fat, and 5-7 grams of carbs. Keep portion sizes in mind, especially with other rich dishes.
- Calories: 80-100 per ball, depends on ingredients
- Protein: 5-6 grams per ball
- Fat: about 6-7 grams each
- Carbohydrates: around 5-7 grams
Tips for Perfecting Your Sausage Balls
7.1 Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Dont overmix or they will turn tough
- Dont forget to line your pan or they sticks
- Dont underbake; make sure they is cooked through
7.2 Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days
- Freeze cooked balls in a bag for up to 3 months
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes; microwaving may make them soggy
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
- Pair with a cold beer or a crisp whit wine
- Serve with a green salad or coleslaw for contrast
- Add other appetizers like shrimp cocktail or stuffed mushrooms to round out your spread
FAQs about Red Lobster Sausage Balls
9.1 What is the best way to reheat sausage balls?
The best way is in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes so they stay crispy instead of getting soggy.
9.2 Can I freeze sausage balls after cooking?
Yes, let them cool, then put in a freezer bag. They stay good up to 3 months.
9.3 Are there any dietary modifications for sausage balls?
You can use lean sausage, gluten-free mix, or dairy-free cheese to fit various diets.
9.4 What can I serve with sausage balls?
They go well with garlic aioli, mustard, veggie sticks, and cheeses for a full appetizer platter.
9.5 How do I make sausage balls less greasy?
Pick lean sausage, drain any excess fat after baking, and avoid adding extra oil.
Conclusion
Red Lobster sausage balls are a winner for any get together. Theyre easy to make, come out tasty every time, and everyone seems to love them. Whether its a fancy holiday or just a regular night, these bites fit right in.
Grab your ingredients, give the recipe a try, and watch your friends and family clean the plate. Once you make them youll understand why they so popular at Red Lobster.
Red Lobster sausage balls
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 parchment paper optional
- 1 grater for cheese
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage Casings removed.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Approximately 8 ounces.
- 1 ½ cups biscuit mix
- 2 tablespoons seafood seasoning Like Old Bay.
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup chopped green onions Optional.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley Optional.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper if desired.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Italian sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, biscuit mix, seafood seasoning, milk, and black pepper. If you're using green onions and parsley, add them as well.
- Mix all ingredients together until thoroughly combined. You may use your hands to ensure the mixture is well blended.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
