There’s something about the smell of sausage baking in the oven mixed with buttery Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix that feels like comfort in a bite. I remember the first time I made these red lobster sausage balls for a holiday brunch. The kitchen was filled with that irresistible aroma of cheese and sausage mingling, and my kids were lined up by the oven, waiting for the first batch to cool enough to eat. They didn’t last five minutes. Now, this recipe has become a family favorite that brings the cozy feel of a Red Lobster dinner right to our table.
In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to make these Red Lobster Sausage Balls, why they’re better than Bisquick sausage cheese balls, and how to tweak them for a gluten-free or spicy version. Whether you’re a fan of Jimmy Dean sausage recipes or looking for a new take on Red Lobster biscuit mix sausage balls, this easy step-by-step guide has everything you need.
The Story Behind Red Lobster Sausage Balls
A Warm Bite of Nostalgia
Every great recipe has a story, and these Red Lobster sausage balls are no different. When I was younger, my mom used to make sausage cheese balls every Christmas morning. They were always made with Bisquick, sharp cheddar, and Jimmy Dean sausage. But one year, I tried swapping the Bisquick for a box of Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix, and something magical happened. The texture became fluffier, the flavor buttery and rich — like a perfect mash-up between a Southern classic and a seafood restaurant favorite.
From Brunch to Game Day
Now, these red lobster sausage balls show up at every family gathering. From brunches to tailgate parties, they’ve replaced chips and dip as the snack everyone requests. Whether you use spicy sausage or keep it mild, the result is the same: golden-brown bites that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The cheddar bay biscuit mix brings that unmistakable Red Lobster flavor, while the sausage gives every bite a savory punch. If you’ve been craving an easy appetizer that tastes restaurant-quality but takes minutes to prepare, this is your new go-to recipe.
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Red Lobster Sausage Balls
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: 32 balls 1x
Description
Ground sausage balls with Red Lobster Biscuit Mix are a fun appetizer or grab-and-go meal kids love. Make spicy or keep mild with cheddar cheese baked inside.
Ingredients
1 box Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (11.36 oz)
1 tbsp butter or dairy-free alternative
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 pound ground sausage (spicy or regular)
1 tsp chives, freeze dried (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix biscuit mix, seasoning packet, melted butter, cheese, and chives until crumbly.
3. Fold in sausage and mix by hand until fully combined.
4. Scoop 2 tablespoons per ball and place on baking sheet.
5. Bake 15–18 minutes until golden brown. Serve hot.
Notes
You can use spicy or mild sausage.
Make ahead and freeze unbaked for later use.
Perfect with dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 61
- Sugar: 0.01g
- Sodium: 116mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Carbohydrates: 0.1g
- Fiber: 0.001g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
What Makes These Red Lobster Sausage Balls So Special
The Secret Ingredient: Red Lobster Biscuit Mix
Unlike Bisquick sausage cheese balls, this version uses Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix, which includes a garlic herb seasoning packet. That packet alone adds layers of flavor that transform a simple sausage ball into something extraordinary. When combined with butter and cheddar cheese, the biscuit base creates a fluffy, flavorful coating around every sausage bite.
Why Jimmy Dean Sausage Makes a Difference
While you can use any brand of ground sausage, Jimmy Dean sausage has just the right fat content and seasoning to make these sausage balls juicy and rich. For those who love heat, opt for spicy sausage; if you prefer mild, the cheddar and biscuit mix add enough savory depth that you won’t miss the spice. And if you’re gluten-sensitive, you can easily use a gluten-free sausage ball variation by substituting a gluten-free biscuit mix and keeping the rest of the ingredients the same.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Red Lobster Sausage Balls
Mixing the Perfect Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine one box of Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (don’t forget the seasoning packet), one tablespoon of melted butter, a teaspoon of freeze-dried chives (optional), and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Now, add one pound of ground sausage — either spicy or regular — and mix thoroughly. The dough will be thick, so use your hands to incorporate everything evenly. The warmth of your hands helps the butter and sausage fats blend perfectly with the biscuit mix.
Shaping and Baking
Using a 2-tablespoon scoop, form the mixture into round balls and place them an inch apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Each bite will have that irresistible combination of crispy edges and a cheesy, tender center.
Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas
Creative Variations
If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy these red lobster sausage balls, there are plenty of options. Try adding diced jalapeños for a spicy twist, or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. Want a breakfast-friendly version? Serve them alongside scrambled eggs and fruit. For holiday gatherings, these make the perfect finger food on a charcuterie-style board next to Red Lobster biscuits.
For gluten-free sausage balls, simply use a gluten-free biscuit mix and your favorite certified gluten-free sausage. The texture remains soft and flavorful, especially when you keep the cheese and butter ratio the same.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
You can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and refrigerate them overnight. The next morning, just bake and serve. They also freeze beautifully. To freeze, shape the uncooked sausage balls, place them on a tray to freeze solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
These little bites are incredibly versatile — perfect for brunches, parties, or quick snacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Bisquick instead of Red Lobster Biscuit Mix?
Yes, you can use Bisquick, but the Red Lobster mix adds a unique garlic and cheddar flavor that makes these sausage balls taste special.
How do I make the sausage balls less greasy?
Use lean sausage or drain the cooked balls on paper towels. Adding slightly less butter can also help reduce grease.
Can I reheat them?
Absolutely. Just pop them in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder taste.
Are they freezer-friendly?
Yes, they freeze well both cooked and uncooked. Store in airtight bags and reheat as needed.
Conclusion
Red Lobster Sausage Balls are everything you want in an appetizer: cheesy, savory, and incredibly simple. They bring together the nostalgic flavor of Jimmy Dean sausage recipes with the restaurant-quality taste of Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Whether you’re making them for game day or a family breakfast, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast. So next time you’re craving something quick, comforting, and undeniably delicious, skip the restaurant line and bake these golden bites right at home.
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