Vegetarian Bisquick Sausage Balls

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If you grew up in the South, chances are you’ve had (or at least heard of) sausage balls. Those golden, cheesy little bites that somehow show up at every holiday party, brunch, and tailgate. Traditionally they are made with pork sausage but here’s the good news: you can make them vegetarian and every bit as delicious. These Vegetarian Bisquick Sausage Balls keep all the classic flavor and texture you love, just without the meat.

Our version uses plant based breakfast sausage combined with cheese, and Bisquick mix. Our Vegetarian Sausage Balls are simple, comforting, and totally addictive. Whether you’re vegetarian, cutting back on meat, or just looking for a new make-ahead snack, these are a must-try. These Vegetarian Bisquick Sausage Balls are cheesy, savory, and satisfyingly nostalgic. You don’t need meat to make a Southern classic shine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Just mix, roll, and bake.
• Crowd favorite: Great for brunch spreads, potlucks, or game-day snacks.
• Make-ahead friendly: They freeze beautifully and reheat like a dream.
• Meatless, but hearty: Thanks to plant-based sausage and sharp cheddar.

How To Make Vegetarian Sausage Balls

Making these meatless sausage balls couldn’t be simpler. With just a few staple ingredients and one bowl, you can have a warm, cheesy appetizer ready for your party platter in under an hour.

Ingredients

• 2 packages (12 patties) plant based breakfast sausage (We used Beyond brand sausage. You will need to crumble and cook these before mixing)
• 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
• 16 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper for a little heat

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Use a large skillet on the stove top to cook the vegetarian sausage patties. Break them apart with a spatula as they cook into small pieces. Cook until lightly browned and crumbled. After cooking the sausage (10 to 15 minutes) remove from the heat and transfer to a plate to cool. Use a paper towel to soak up extra cooking grease.
3. In a large bowl, combine the vegetarian sausage, Bisquick, cheese, milk, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands (or a sturdy spoon) to mix until everything is evenly combined. If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it holds together easily.
4. Roll into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Let cool slightly and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce — ranch dip, cranberry sauce, or spicy maple mustard all work great.

Tips & Variations

• Make It Vegan: Use vegan cheese, and plant-based milk. Original Bisquick mix is accidently vegan.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce to the dough.
• Prep Ahead: Roll and freeze the unbaked balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
• Chilling Out: Chilling the balls in the fridge before you bake them will help them hold their shape and not flatten out as they bake.

Serving Ideas For Vegetarian Bisquick Sausage Balls

Serve these warm for brunch with scrambled eggs and fruit, or set out a platter for an easy appetizer at your next party or tailgate. We serve these year round at parties and we always have them at Christmas. They’re also great for meal prep. Pop a few of the leftover sausage balls in the microwave or warm in the toaster oven for a quick breakfast on busy mornings.

Looking for More Classic Southern Appetizers?

If you’re putting together a holiday party spread, a weekend tailgate, or a brunch menu, these sausage balls are just the beginning! For the ultimate collection of party inspiration, check out my comprehensive guide to Southern Vegetarian Appetizers: 30+ Easy, Crowd-Pleasing Recipes.

Round out your next gathering by pairing them with these other classic Southern favorites:

• Baked Pepper Jelly Dip
• Easy Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip
• Southern Deviled Eggs
• Healthy Pimento Cheese
• Classic Benedictine Spread

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why did my sausage balls turn out dry or crumbly?

Vegetarian sausage crumbles often have less natural fat and moisture than traditional pork sausage. If your dough feels too dry to roll add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture holds its shape. Also, be sure to use a block of sharp cheddar and shred it yourself; pre-bagged cheese contains anti caking agents that can dry out the dough.

Can I use pre-packaged vegetarian sausage crumbles instead of patties?

Yes! You can easily substitute the patties with loose plant-based breakfast sausage crumbles. Just pre-cook them in a skillet according to the package directions, let them cool slightly, and mix them right into the Bisquick and cheese.

What is the best way to reheat leftover sausage balls?

To keep that perfect, slightly crisp exterior, reheat leftover sausage balls in the oven or toaster oven at 350F for 5 to 7 minutes. If you are in a rush, you can microwave them for 15 to 20 seconds though they will turn out a bit softer.

Why did my sausage balls flatten out while baking?

If your sausage balls lose their round shape and flatten on the baking sheet, the dough was likely too warm. For the best texture, chill the rolled balls in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes before popping them into the preheated oven. This helps the fats stay solid longer, keeping them nice and plump!

Can I make these sausage balls vegan?

Yes, absolutely! Original Bisquick baking mix is accidentally vegan, making it incredibly easy to adapt this recipe. To make vegan sausage balls, simply swap out the dairy milk for a plain, unsweetened plant-based milk (like soy or almond milk) and use your favorite vegan cheddar cheese shreds.