My uncle made these for every game day tailgate starting in 1983. Just 3 simple items, and the crowd always demanded a double batch before halftime even hit.

Game day is a time for fun, friends, and, of course, tasty food. One recipe that stands out, especially at tailgate parties, is my uncle’s savory sausage bites. Made with just three simple ingredients, these delicious treats have been a crowd favorite since 1983. No gathering is complete without them!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for an easy and popular snack to share during game day. They require minimal effort and time to prepare, but they deliver maximum flavor. Plus, the combination of breakfast sausage and sharp cheddar cheese is hard to resist. Making a double batch is always a good idea, as they tend to disappear before halftime!

How to Make Sausage Bites

Ingredients:

1 pound breakfast sausage
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups baking mix

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Line a baking sheet or lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan.
In a large bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and baking mix.
Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix until everything is blended well and holds together.
Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch across, and place them on the prepared pan, leaving some space between each one.
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they are browned on the outside and cooked through.
Let them cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm on a paper plate or platter with toothpicks.

For an extra kick, consider using hot breakfast sausage or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can prepare the sausage bites ahead of time by rolling them into balls and refrigerating them before baking. They also freeze nicely after baking; just let them cool, store in a freezer bag, and reheat in the oven when needed.

How to Serve Sausage Bites

These sausage bites are best served warm. Place them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. They make a great finger food option for your guests, and you can pair them with dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue for added flavor.

How to Store Sausage Bites

To store leftover sausage bites, let them cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for 3 to 4 days this way. You can also freeze them as mentioned earlier. Just reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees F until they are hot throughout.

Tips to Make Sausage Bites

Ensure the sausage is fully cooked before mixing it with other ingredients.
For a bit more flavor, add chopped herbs or spices to the mixture.
Use non-stick cooking spray or parchment paper to prevent sticking on the baking sheet.

Variation

You can easily customize these sausage bites by incorporating different types of cheese or adding vegetables like diced peppers or onions. Experimenting with various seasonings can also give them a unique twist!