1 lb (450g) ground sausage (pork, beef, or a mix)

1 cup (4 oz / 113g) shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, optional for strict carnivore)

1 large egg

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor and binding)

1/2 tsp salt (optional, depending on the seasoning of your sausage)

1/2 tsp black pepper (optional)

1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional, for flavor)

1/2 tsp onion powder (optional, for flavor)

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Mix the Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheese (if using), egg, Parmesan cheese (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. It may be easier to use your hands for this step.

Form the Sausage Balls:

Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls. You should get about 20-24 sausage balls, depending on the size.

Bake:

Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other.

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

Cool and Serve:

Remove from the oven and let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.

Serve warm, or cool completely and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

For a stricter carnivore version, omit the Parmesan cheese and seasonings. Just use sausage, egg, and cheese (if allowed in your diet).

You can also make these with ground beef or chicken if you prefer a different meat base.

These sausage balls freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely and then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Cooking Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time