Y’all, get ready for a Southern twist that’ll knock your socks off! These Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls combine two beloved Southern staples into one irresistible bite.
If you love pimento cheese (and who doesn’t?), you’re about to fall head over heels for this recipe. The creamy, tangy pimento spread transforms ordinary sausage balls into something extraordinary and uniquely Southern.
Whether you’re hosting a tailgate, Sunday brunch, or just craving some serious comfort food, these golden beauties deliver big flavor with that signature Southern charm. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Southern Flair: Pimento cheese adds a tangy, creamy kick that cheddar alone can’t provide. It’s that classic Southern flavor we all crave, baked into a perfectly poppable appetizer!
Extra Moist: The mayonnaise and cream cheese in the pimento spread keep the balls tender and never dry. You’ll get that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture every single time.
Unique Twist: It’s a fun variation that guests usually haven’t tried before. They’ll be asking for the recipe before they even finish their first one!
Party Ready: These hold up beautifully on a buffet table and taste amazing at room temperature. No stress about keeping them piping hot!
Ingredients
Pimento Cheese: Use a tub of store-bought (like Palmetto style) or homemade if you have a favorite recipe. Jalapeño pimento cheese adds a great kick and takes these to the next level!
Sausage: Mild country sausage works best here to let the cheese flavor shine. The pimento cheese is already so flavorful, you don’t want to compete with hot sausage.
Baking Mix: Bisquick holds it all together and gives these their signature tender texture. It’s the perfect binder for this Southern treat.
Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory notes and adds depth to the flavor. Just a little bit goes a long way with pimento cheese!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix: Combine the sausage and pimento cheese spread in a bowl. Mix until uniform—you want that pimento goodness evenly distributed throughout!
2. Add Mix: Gradually fold in the baking mix and garlic powder. It will be sticky, which is totally normal—don’t panic!
3. Chill (Optional): If too sticky to handle, chill dough for 15 minutes. This firms everything up and makes rolling much easier.
4. Shape: Roll into 1-inch balls and place on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Wet hands slightly if the dough is sticking to your palms.
5. Bake: Bake at 375°F for 18-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the sausage is cooked through. You’ll see gorgeous golden edges and smell that amazing Southern goodness!
Tips for Success
Watch the Salt: Sausage and pimento cheese are both salty, so don’t add extra salt to the mixture. Taste your pimento cheese first if you’re unsure about seasoning.
Texture Check: Pimento cheese varies in texture by brand. If the dough is too wet and won’t hold shape, add a little more baking mix one tablespoon at a time.
Parchment Paper: Pimento cheese can ooze a bit more than regular cheese as it bakes, so line your pan for easy cleanup. Trust us on this one!
Room Temperature: Let your sausage sit at room temp for 15-20 minutes before mixing. It’ll combine much more easily with the pimento cheese.
Don’t Overmix: Once the baking mix is incorporated, stop mixing. Overworking the dough can make the balls tough instead of tender.
Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls Variations
Spicy Pimento: Use a pimento cheese with jalapeños or cayenne for heat lovers. The spicy kick is absolutely addictive with the savory sausage!
Bacon: Add cooked, crumbled bacon bits for a smoky flavor dimension. Because everything’s better with bacon, right?
Biscuit Style: Make them larger and flatter for a sausage-biscuit hybrid that’s perfect for breakfast sandwiches. Slice them in half and add a fried egg!
Herb Garden: Mix in fresh chopped chives or green onions for a pop of freshness and color.
Extra Cheesy: Stir in some additional shredded sharp cheddar if you want an even more intense cheese flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with pepper jelly—this is the perfect sweet-heat pairing! The combination is pure Southern magic and will have everyone swooning.
Great on a biscuit board alongside honey butter and jam. Create a beautiful spread that celebrates all things Southern!
Serve with pickles on the side for that classic tangy crunch. Bread and butter pickles or dill spears both work wonderfully.
Add them to a brunch spread with grits, fresh fruit, and mimosas. They’re the savory centerpiece that brings everything together!
FAQs
Can I use light pimento cheese? Yes, but full-fat binds better and tastes richer. The mayo and cream cheese in regular pimento cheese are what keep these so moist!
Is Bisquick the only option? No, you can use Red Lobster Cheddar Bay biscuit mix for a huge flavor boost. It adds garlic and herbs that complement the pimento cheese beautifully!
Can I make these ahead? Yes, roll them out and refrigerate overnight before baking. You can also freeze them unbaked for up to 3 months—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why are mine falling apart? Your pimento cheese might be too wet, or you didn’t mix the baking mix in thoroughly enough. Add more baking mix and make sure everything is well combined.
Final Thoughts
If you love Southern food, these Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls are a must-try! They are savory, tangy, and incredibly moist—everything a good sausage ball should be with a delicious twist.
The creamy pimento cheese transforms this classic appetizer into something special that’ll have your guests raving. Don’t forget the pepper jelly for serving—it’s the perfect finishing touch!
Make a double batch because these disappear faster than sweet tea on a hot summer day. They’re that good, y’all!
Ready to bring some Southern charm to your table? Pin this recipe and let’s get baking!
Southern Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls (Tangy & Creamy!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine sausage and pimento cheese until well mixed.
- Gradually fold in Bisquick and garlic powder. Mixture will be sticky.
- If dough is too sticky, chill for 15 minutes before shaping.
- Roll into 1-inch balls (wet hands if dough sticks). Place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and sausage is fully cooked.