Keto Sausage Balls
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My keto sausage balls are cheesy, juicy, and packed with savory flavor. Made without Bisquick, they’re naturally gluten-free, easy to make, and have just 1 gram of net carbs per serving.
These keto sausage balls started as my mom’s classic recipe. Growing up, she always made them with Bisquick, but when I started creating more low carb recipes, I wanted a version that kept the same soft texture and cheesy flavor without the extra carbs.
A combination of almond flour and parmesan cheese did the trick. They’re cheesy, savory, and always one of the first appetizers to disappear. Even my non-keto friends and family give them their tick of approval.
Arman’s tips before starting
Grate your own cheese if you can. I know it’s an extra step, but it makes a difference. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and gives the sausage balls a better texture than the pre-shredded kind.
Mix by hand. A food processor makes quick work of the mixture, but I often use a large mixing bowl and my hands. It’s just as effective and saves washing another appliance.
Make them ahead. If I’m hosting or need to bring a plate somewhere, I’ll often mix the sausage mixture and roll the balls a day or two in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge, then let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking.
Use a thermometer. The sausage balls are fully cooked once they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (72°C). It’s the easiest way to avoid undercooking or drying them out.
Key Ingredients
Here’s what goes into low carb sausage balls, along with my kitchen notes. Full measurements are in the recipe card below.
- Ground pork. I usually prefer full-fat meat for sausage balls, but I did test them with lean ground pork sausage and it worked well, since I’m adding plenty of wet ingredients.
- Almond flour. Either blanched almond flour or superfine almond flour. You can even use keto bread crumbs if you’d like more tender sausage balls.
- Baking powder. Adds structure and binds the other ingredients.
- Sharp cheddar cheese and cream cheese. The cheddar adds plenty of savory flavor, while the cream cheese keeps the sausage balls soft and juicy in the center.
- Sugar-free maple syrup. Don’t skip this! It doesn’t make the sausage balls sweet, but it adds a subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with pork and cheese.
- Milk. I typically use whole milk but any milk is fine to use.
- Onion powder. Adds a subtle onion flavor without affecting the texture.
- Salt and black pepper. To taste.
- Scallions. Adds a subtle peppery kick.
How to make keto sausage balls
Step 1- Prep. Preheat oven to 210C/425F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2- Mix. Add all ingredients (except the scallions) to a food processor. Pulse until fully mixed. Add the scallions and pulse twice to combine.
Step 3- Shape. Using a cookie scoop, scoop out equal-sized portions of the meat mixture. Shape them into balls and place them on the baking sheet.
Step 4- Bake. Bake the balls for 7-10 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 72C/160f.
Can I make these in the air fryer?
Yes! If I’m making a half-batch of sausage balls for myself, I’ll often use the air fryer.
To do this, place the sausage balls in the greased air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry them at 400F/200C for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Replace the almond flour with 1/4 cup (28g) coconut flour. If the mixture seems too wet, add a little more as needed.
No, traditional Bisquick contains wheat flour and isn’t suitable for a keto diet.
More keto appetizers
Keto Sausage Balls
Video
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork regular or lean, 450g
- 1/2 cup almond flour 56g
- 1 tablespoon baking powder 12g
- 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese 140g
- 1/2 cup cream cheese softened, 115g
- 1/4 cup keto maple syrup 60mL
- 3 tablespoons milk 45mL
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 green onions chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 210C/425F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a food processor or large mixing bowl, add the ground pork, almond flour, baking powder, shredded cheese, cream cheese, maple syrup, milk, salt, and onion powder and pulse/mix until combined. Add the green onions and pulse twice until combined.
- Using a small cookie or ice cream scoop, scoop out equal size portions of the sausage ball mixture. Use your hands to shape them into balls and place them on the lined baking sheet.
- Bake the sausage balls for 7-10 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160C.
- Remove the sausage balls from the oven and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Originally published June 2022
Can you sub honey for the maple syrup?
Absolutely! If you don’t mind the added sugar.
Maple syrup with meat? It should be so good!!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Mario- thanks for sharing the photos!
Hm never heard before of “keto” maple syrup. Need to buy it.
Im making these today for a family get together. You never disappoint. Love your recipes. Thanks so much.
I just recently discovered your website, I’m managing Type 2 with diet alone, and can’t wait to try these sausage balls!! They’ll fit my schedule and my cravings beautifully!!
Armen
Love your website and everyone of your recipes has been perfect!
Question on keto susage balls the recipe makes 24 and thats 6 per serving at 1 net carb for 6?
Thanks
Best wishes Donna
Hi Donna- thank you so much for your comment. Yes, those calculations are correct- Our in-house dietician, Felicia, has confirmed this!
sorry, maybe I’m missing g it…but how many in a serving?
6 servings in an entire recipe