Flavorful Zesty Jalapeno Pepper Jack Sausage Balls Easy Homemade Recipe
These sausage balls combine spicy jalapenos with creamy Pepper Jack cheese and savory sausage for a quick, flavorful snack perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 sausage balls (about 8 servings, 3 balls per serving) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- 1 ½ cups baking mix (Bisquick or gluten-free baking mix)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh jalapeno peppers (seeds removed for milder heat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional for serving: spicy mustard or ranch dressing, fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, combine ground pork sausage, shredded Pepper Jack cheese, baking mix, chopped jalapenos, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined and sticky but firm enough to shape.
- Pinch off about 1 ½ tablespoon-sized portions (about 1 ounce each) and roll into smooth balls. Place on prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 160°F or 71°C). Turn balls halfway through baking for even browning.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes. Serve warm with dipping sauces.
Notes
Use freshly shredded Pepper Jack cheese for best melting. Remove jalapeno seeds for milder heat. Wet hands slightly to shape balls if mixture is too sticky. Avoid overbaking to prevent dryness. Freeze uncooked balls for longer storage and bake from frozen adding extra minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 sausage balls
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 22
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 12
Keywords: sausage balls, jalapeno, Pepper Jack cheese, appetizer, party snack, easy recipe, spicy snack