If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with flavor, low in carbs, and perfectly satisfying, the Keto Sausage Balls Recipe is an absolute game-changer. These little golden bites blend rich, savory sausage with melty cheese and a hint of ranch seasoning for a cozy, irresistible snack that fits right into your keto lifestyle. Whether you’re fueling up for a busy day or bringing a crowd-pleaser to your next gathering, this recipe is simple to whip up and guarantees a deliciously cheesy, spicy kick in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a brilliant example of how just a handful of simple, quality ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Each component plays a vital role, from the creaminess of the cheese to the warmth of the sausage and the subtle herbiness of the ranch seasoning.
- 1 lb. ground sausage: The meaty base that provides juicy, savory flavor and the perfect protein boost.
- 1 cup almond flour (fine): A low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional flour that helps bind everything while keeping carbs minimal.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterrey Jack): Adds melty richness and gooey texture you’ll love in every bite.
- 4 oz. cream cheese (softened): Brings creaminess and moisture, ensuring the sausage balls aren’t dry or crumbly.
- 2 tsp. ranch seasoning mix (homemade or store-bought): Injects a savory, herby zing that elevates the entire flavor profile.
- ½ tsp. salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat to offset the richness.
- 3 Tbsp. green onions (finely chopped): Adds fresh pops of color and a mild onion flavor to brighten the dish.
How to Make Keto Sausage Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking. This upfront step ensures your sausage balls will get that delightful golden crust while staying tender inside.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients Together
In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, almond flour, shredded cheese, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, salt, red pepper flakes, and chopped green onions. Use a sturdy spatula to fold everything together evenly, making sure every bit is well coated and the mixture is uniform. This step is crucial to a consistent texture in your sausage balls.
Step 3: Form the Sausage Balls
Use about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll it gently between your hands into a tight ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used, aiming to get 24 sausage balls total. Placing them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet not only prevents sticking but makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Halfway through baking, flip each sausage ball carefully to promote even browning on all sides. For an irresistible crispy exterior, pop them under the broiler for an additional 2 to 3 minutes—but watch closely so they don’t burn!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked to perfection, sprinkle some extra green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve them warm with toothpicks to make snacking honest and easy. These are sure to disappear quickly at any table!
How to Serve Keto Sausage Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions are a classic garnish that add color and a mild crunch. If you want to fancy things up, try a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley to brighten the flavors and presentation.
Side Dishes
Keto sausage balls are fantastic on their own but pair beautifully with crisp cucumber slices, crunchy celery sticks, or a fresh keto-friendly salad. These sides add texture contrast and keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Thread a few sausage balls onto small skewers alternating with cherry tomatoes and olives. For parties, arrange them in a festive circle on a platter with small bowls of your favorite keto dips like guacamole or ranch dressing for delightful dipping fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your sausage balls have cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days—perfect to enjoy as a quick snack or a protein-packed appetizer later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, freeze uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. Frozen sausage balls keep well for up to 3 months and can go straight from freezer to oven, making meal prep seamless.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm leftover or frozen sausage balls in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible—it can make the texture rubbery instead of delightfully crisp.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While pork sausage works great, you can swap in turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner twist. Just make sure to choose one with good seasoning to keep that bold flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Keto Sausage Balls Recipe is gluten-free thanks to almond flour in place of traditional wheat flour. It’s perfect for those avoiding gluten or following low-carb diets.
Can I make these dairy-free?
You can try swapping the cheese and cream cheese for plant-based alternatives, but keep in mind it may affect texture and flavor. Opt for creamer nut-based cheese to stay aligned with keto principles.
How spicy are the sausage balls?
The red pepper flakes are optional and provide a gentle kick. If you prefer them mild, simply omit the flakes or reduce the amount to suit your taste buds perfectly.
What’s the best way to serve these at a party?
Serve them warm with toothpicks and a variety of keto-friendly dips. They work wonderfully as finger food and are guaranteed to be the hit of your snack table!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and exciting about making your own keto-friendly snacks from scratch, and this Keto Sausage Balls Recipe fits the bill beautifully. Whether you’re a seasoned keto enthusiast or just discovering low-carb options, these sausage balls deliver on flavor, convenience, and that perfect cheesy satisfaction. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to snack!
Print
Keto Sausage Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 sausage balls
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Keto Sausage Balls recipe offers a delicious, low-carb snack perfect for any occasion. Made with ground sausage, almond flour, cheeses, and flavorful seasonings, these bite-sized balls are easy to prepare and bake to crispy perfection in just 25 minutes. Ideal for keto diets, these savory sausage balls are great for appetizers, party snacks, or a quick protein-packed bite.
Ingredients
Meat & Dairy
- 1 lb. ground sausage
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterrey Jack)
- 4 oz. cream cheese (softened)
Dry Ingredients & Seasonings
- 1 cup almond flour (fine)
- 2 tsp. ranch seasoning mix (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ tsp. salt
- ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp. green onions (finely chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready for baking the sausage balls evenly.
- Mix the ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, almond flour, shredded cheese, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, salt, red pepper flakes (if using), and finely chopped green onions. Use a spatula to mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the sausage balls. Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of the sausage mixture and roll it between your hands to create a ball. Place each ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat until you have formed 24 sausage balls.
- Bake the sausage balls. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Halfway through baking, flip the sausage balls to ensure even cooking and browning. For an extra crispy exterior, turn on the broiler for an additional 2 to 3 minutes after baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve. Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with additional chopped green onions and serve with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Notes
- You can swap Cheddar or Monterrey Jack cheese based on your preference for flavor and meltiness.
- Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to restore crispness and warmth.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Use homemade ranch seasoning to control salt and additives if preferred.
