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A bowl of golden brown sausage cheese balls lined with parchment paper, served with a creamy herb dipping sauce.

Tangy Sourdough Discard Sausage Balls (Easy Recipe)

These easy sourdough sausage balls are a delightful twist on a classic, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or appetizers. Utilizing sourdough discard adds a subtle tang and tender texture to these cheesy, savory bites.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 36 pieces
Course: Appetizer, Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 85
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sausage Balls
  • 1 lb Ground Breakfast Sausage mild or spicy, uncooked
  • 8 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese finely shredded
  • 1/2 cup Sourdough Discard unfed, straight from the fridge
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Salt or to taste, depending on sausage seasoning
  • Pinch Cayenne Pepper optional, for a kick

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Air Fryer (optional)

Method
 

Prepare the Mixture
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground breakfast sausage, finely shredded cheddar cheese, sourdough discard, all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and optional cayenne pepper.
  3. Using your hands (this is the best way!), thoroughly mix all ingredients until well combined. The mixture should be uniform and sticky, resembling a thick dough.
Form and Bake
  1. Roll the mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls. Aim for about 36 balls. Place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature of the sausage reaches 160°F (71°C). If desired, flip them halfway through baking for even browning.
Air Fryer Instructions (Optional)
  1. To cook in an air fryer, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the sausage balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve
  1. Remove from the oven or air fryer and let cool slightly before serving. They are delicious warm.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture. These sausage balls can be made ahead and frozen. Arrange uncooked balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes.