Introduction
Sausage balls are a delightful and savory treat, perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in. Combining flavorful chorizo sausage with the creaminess of Cheddar cheese and the subtle sweetness of sweet potato, these bites are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Paired with a tangy orange marmalade sauce, they offer a wonderful blend of spicy and sweet that will keep your taste buds intrigued. Let’s delve into the ingredients for this mouthwatering dish.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
For the Sausage Balls:
– 1 pound chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 2½ cups all-purpose baking mix (e.g., Bisquick)
– 1 (8-ounce) package shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
– ½ cup mashed sweet potato (approximately 1 large sweet potato)
– 1/8 teaspoon ground pie spice or ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
For the Marmalade Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
– ¼ cup pepper jelly or Captain Rodney’s Boucan Pepper Sauce
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Yield
Approximately 24 sausage balls
With this combination of ingredients and simple preparation steps, you’ll have a delicious dish that is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings. Whether served at a brunch, cocktail party, or family gathering, sausage balls with orange marmalade sauce are a guaranteed hit!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with foil sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook and Mash the Sweet Potato
Wash the sweet potato and microwave until fully cooked. Cut it in half, scoop out the flesh, and mash it in a small bowl. Allow the mashed sweet potato to cool for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chorizo sausage, baking mix, shredded cheese, mashed sweet potato, pie spice (or cinnamon), and salt. Mix until well blended.
Step 4: Form the Sausage Balls
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake the Sausage Balls
Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until the sausage balls are cooked through and just beginning to darken.
Step 6: Cool the Sausage Balls
Remove the sausage balls from the oven and place them on a wire rack.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the sausage balls hot with a side of Orange Marmalade Sauce or a sauce of your choice.
For the Orange Marmalade Sauce:
Step 1: Combine Sauce Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine the orange marmalade, pepper jelly (or Captain Rodney’s Boucan Pepper Sauce), and Dijon mustard. Stir well to combine.
Step 2: Serve the Sauce
Serve alongside the sausage balls for dipping.
Notes
Make Ahead
The sausage balls can be made ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
Storage of Marmalade Sauce
The marmalade sauce can be prepared ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze unbaked sausage balls, place them on a baking tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25-35 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cook techniques
Microwaving Sweet Potato
Wash the sweet potato thoroughly and microwave it until fully cooked. This method helps retain moisture and flavor while making it easier to mash.
Mixing Ingredients
Combine the chorizo sausage, baking mix, cheese, mashed sweet potato, spices, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed for even flavor distribution.
Rolling Sausage Balls
Form the mixture into uniform 1-inch balls. Consistent size ensures even cooking and a uniform texture.
Baking
Place the sausage balls on a prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Bake at 350°F until they are cooked through and golden brown, which typically takes about 20 minutes.
Cooling on Wire Rack
After baking, transfer the sausage balls to a wire rack to cool. This prevents them from becoming soggy by allowing steam to escape.
Preparing Dipping Sauce
Mix orange marmalade, pepper jelly, and Dijon mustard in a bowl until well combined. This creates a sweet and spicy dipping sauce to complement the sausage balls.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute chorizo with other types of sausage, but be aware that flavors may differ.
How long can I store cooked sausage balls?
Cooked sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze unbaked sausage balls?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked sausage balls. Freeze them on a baking tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for later use.
How do I reheat cooked sausage balls?
Reheat cooked sausage balls in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, usually about 10 minutes.
What if I can’t find pepper jelly?
If pepper jelly is unavailable, you can use Captain Rodney’s Boucan Pepper Sauce or another sweet and spicy sauce as a substitute.
Conclusion
These sausage balls offer a deliciously savory treat enhanced by the sweetness of mashed sweet potato and complemented by a tangy marmalade sauce. Perfect for gatherings, they provide a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to impress your guests.
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