My uncle started serving these at every block party back in 1982. Just 3 simple items and the foil tray is practically licked clean within ten minutes of arriving.

 

These 3-ingredient sausage falkner balls are the kind of old-school party snack that disappears fast, especially when you need something easy, filling, and friendly for a crowd. With just sausage, baking mix, and shredded cheese, they bake up crisp on the outside, tender in the middle, and full of savory flavor, making them a reliable favorite for block parties, game days, holiday brunches, and casual family get-togethers.

Serve these warm with toothpicks and a few simple dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. They also fit right in on a snack table with veggie sticks, pickle spears, chips, or a fruit tray, and if you’re offering them for breakfast or brunch, they pair especially well with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.

3-Ingredient Sausage Falkner Balls

Servings: 24 sausage balls

Close up of sausage falkner balls on a foil-lined platter
Ingredients

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

Main ingredients for sausage balls
Directions1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet or foil tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.

Prepared baking sheet ready for sausage balls
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage, baking mix, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix with clean hands or a sturdy spoon until the ingredients are fully blended into a thick mixture.

Sausage, cheese, and baking mix mixed in a bowl
3. Scoop and roll the mixture into 1-inch balls, then place them on the prepared baking sheet with a little space between each one.

Unbaked sausage balls arranged on a baking sheet
4. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are cooked through and deeply golden brown on the outside.

Freshly baked golden sausage balls on a sheet pan
5. Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving warm on a foil-lined platter with toothpicks, if desired.

Plated sausage balls with toothpicks and simple sides
Variations & TipsFor a milder batch: Use mild breakfast sausage and a medium cheddar if you are serving kids or guests who prefer gentler flavors. This is an easy way to keep the texture and richness while making the bites a little more crowd-friendly.

For easier mixing: Let the sausage sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before combining it with the baking mix and cheese. A slightly softened sausage mixture is much easier to work together by hand.

For make-ahead convenience: Roll the sausage balls a day ahead and refrigerate them covered on a tray until you are ready to bake. You can also freeze them unbaked, then bake from cold, adding a few extra minutes as needed.

For picky eaters: Keep the seasoning simple and skip dipping sauces with too much spice. A familiar ranch dip or even plain ketchup can make these more fun and approachable for little ones.

For a different cheese flavor: Try pepper jack for a little kick or colby jack for a softer, creamier taste. Just be sure to use a good melting shredded cheese so the sausage balls hold together nicely and stay moist.