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Turkey Sausage Balls

Savory turkey sausage balls prepared with sharp cheddar, Parmesan, cream cheese, green onions, and baking mix. They may be baked in the oven or cooked in an air fryer for a warm, protein-rich appetizer.
Print Recipe
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Turkey Sausage Balls
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • ½ cup thinly sliced green onion tops
  • 4 ounces cream cheese brought to room temperature
  • 2 cups all-purpose baking mix such as original Bisquick
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese approximately 2 ounces
  • 1 pound ground turkey sausage
  • 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese approximately 8 ounces

Instructions

  • For oven preparation, heat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, a silicone baking mat, or aluminum foil to reduce sticking and simplify cleanup.
  • For air-fryer preparation, preheat the appliance to 350°F.
  • Add the baking mix and sliced green onion tops.
  • Blend the ingredients thoroughly with clean hands, a sturdy spoon, or a stand mixer until the cheeses, onions, and baking mix are evenly incorporated throughout the sausage. When mixing by hand, gently fold and knead the mixture until no dry pockets remain.
  • Using a medium cookie scoop or a generous tablespoon, divide the mixture into 24 equal portions.
  • Roll each portion into a ball approximately the size of a golf ball. Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet with a small amount of space between them.
  • For oven baking, cook at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are lightly browned and fully cooked.
  • For air frying, cook at 350°F for 10–15 minutes. Shake the basket after approximately 5 minutes to encourage even browning.
  • Check the center of the sausage balls with an instant-read thermometer. Ground turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Serve warm with marinara sauce, barbecue sauce, or another preferred dipping sauce.

Notes

Freshly grated sharp cheddar melts more smoothly than packaged pre-shredded cheese.
Regular or reduced-fat cream cheese may be used, provided it is softened before mixing.
Cooking times may vary slightly according to the size of the sausage balls and the performance of the oven or air fryer.