3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Sausage Balls
If you’re looking for an easy slow cooker appetizer that disappears fast, these 3-ingredient sausage balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Made with just breakfast sausage, baking mix, and cheddar cheese, this classic recipe delivers big flavor with almost no effort. The slow cooker keeps them warm, melty, and perfectly tender for hours, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, game day spreads, and holiday gatherings.
Rooted in classic Midwestern comfort food, this recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable results. No oven space needed, no last-minute stress just dump, roll, and let the crockpot do the work while you entertain.
Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Sausage Balls:
Only 3 ingredients budget-friendly and pantry-staple simple
Perfect make-ahead appetizer stays warm on the WARM setting
Hands-off cooking no oven, no babysitting
Great for parties & holidays ideal for game day, brunch, and potlucks
Rich, cheesy, and filling a little goes a long way
3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Sausage Balls Recipe
Yield: About 24 sausage balls (8 appetizer servings)
Ingredients:
1 lb (450 g) uncooked breakfast sausage
2 cups baking mix (Bisquick or similar)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Directions:
Lightly grease the slow cooker or line the bottom with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large bowl, mix the uncooked sausage, baking mix, and shredded cheddar cheese until fully combined.
Roll the mixture into 1–1¼ inch balls (about 1 tablespoon each).
Arrange the sausage balls in the slow cooker in a single layer. You may stack slightly if needed.
Cover and cook:
HIGH: 2–2½ hours
LOW: 4–5 hours
until fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F / 71°C).
Switch to WARM for serving. Leave the lid slightly ajar for a few minutes if excess moisture builds up.
Serving Ideas:
Serve straight from the crockpot with toothpicks or small tongs
Pair with mustard, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dip
Add to a brunch table with eggs, fruit, and toast
Balance the richness with fresh veggies or a crisp salad
Variations & Pro Tips:
Spicy sausage balls: Use hot breakfast sausage or pepper jack cheese
Milder flavor: Try country-style or maple sausage with mild cheddar
Extra browning: Broil cooked sausage balls for 2–3 minutes before serving
Make-ahead friendly: Freeze raw sausage balls and cook directly from frozen (add time)
