Sausage Cheese Puffs

If you’ve ever wanted an excuse to eat sausage and cheese in one bite-sized, delicious puff of glory, this is it. These sausage cheese puffs are like the love child of your favorite breakfast sandwich and that cheesy biscuit you can’t resist at restaurants. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside and packed with savory sausage and sharp cheddar. Plus, they’re the perfect finger food, which means less time with a fork and more time savoring every bite.

Sausage Puffs Ingredients

• Bulk Italian sausage: Sausage adds savory flavor and richness while providing fat that helps bind the mixture together.
• Biscuit/baking mix: This mix provides structure, allowing the puffs to rise and hold their shape. If you’re out, try this recipe for homemade biscuit baking mix.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar brings a sharp and tangy flavor and contributes to the gooey texture of the puffs.
• Water: Water hydrates the biscuit mix, making the dough workable and ensuring the ingredients bind together properly.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the sausage

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Preheat the oven to 400°F. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the bulk Italian sausage. Break it into crumbles using a wooden spoon or spatula, cooking until the sausage is browned and no longer pink, about five to seven minutes. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Combine the dry ingredients

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In a large bowl, stir together the biscuit mix and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly combined. Add the cooked sausage to the bowl and toss everything together to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Mix and bake

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Gradually add the water to the mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough is moistened and holds together. Shape the dough into 1-1/2 inch balls and place them two inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the puffs are golden brown and slightly puffed. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.

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Sausage Puffs Variations

• Swap the cheese: Use sharp white cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Use spicy sausage: Try hot Italian sausage or chorizo for a spicier kick.
• Try a breakfast version: Substitute breakfast sausage and mix in scrambled eggs for a morning twist.
• Make them mini: Shape smaller 1-inch puffs for bite-sized appetizers or party snacks.

How to Store Sausage Puffs

To store sausage cheese puffs, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Can you freeze sausage puffs?

Yes, sausage puffs freeze beautifully. Once they’ve cooled completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months and can be reheated straight from frozen.

Can you make sausage puffs ahead of time?

Sausage puffs are great to make ahead! You can prepare the dough and shape the puffs a day in advance. Store the unbaked puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve. Alternatively, bake the puffs, cool them completely, and store them at room temperature for up to two days.

How do you reheat sausage puffs?

Place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the baking time. For smaller batches, you can also use a microwave. Note that the puffs may lose some of their crispness.

Sausage Puffs Tips

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What are some good dishes to serve with sausage puffs?

Sausage puffs pair well with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette for balance, or offer a creamy dip like ranch or a spicy mustard for dipping. They also complement a hearty vegetable soup, making them a great addition to a cozy meal.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage in sausage puffs?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked sausage in this recipe. Simply crumble or chop the pre-cooked sausage into small pieces and stir it into the biscuit mix and cheese. You can skip the step of cooking the sausage, but keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different.

What type of biscuit mix works best for sausage puffs?

Any standard biscuit or baking mix, like Bisquick, works well for sausage puffs. You can also use a homemade biscuit mix if you prefer. If using a mix with added herbs or seasoning, it can give the puffs an extra layer of flavor.

Can I use a different type of meat in sausage puffs?

Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with other ground meats, such as turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just be mindful that leaner meats may produce a slightly drier puff.

Can I make sausage puffs in a mini muffin tin?

Yes, you can use a mini muffin tin to shape the sausage puffs. This method creates a uniform shape and helps the puffs hold together while baking. Simply press the dough into greased muffin cups and bake as directed.