The holidays have a way of gathering all kinds of people around one table. Different traditions, different stories, and sometimes different dietary needs. Over the years, I’ve learned that one of the simplest ways to love people well during the season is to make sure no one feels like they’re missing out.
That’s exactly why this recipe lives in our holiday rotation.
These gluten-free Cheddar Bay sausage balls are rich, savory, and full of comfort, with the addition of pimento cheese taking them just a little bit over the top. They’re the kind of appetizer that disappears quietly but quickly, the kind people ask about while reaching for another.
Best of all, they can be made ahead and frozen, which makes hosting feel a whole lot lighter.
The Recipe
This is a double batch, perfect for gatherings or for stocking the freezer.
You’ll need two boxes of gluten-free Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix, two pounds of ground pork sausage, one and a half cups of Palmetto pimento cheese, three-quarters of a cup shredded sharp cheddar, six tablespoons milk, and three tablespoons melted butter. You can also save the seasoning packets from the biscuit mix for finishing, which I highly recommend.
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. In a large bowl, combine the sausage, biscuit mix, pimento cheese, shredded cheddar, milk, and melted butter. Mix everything together until fully incorporated. Hands work best here. The mixture should be soft and easy to roll. If it feels a little dry, add more milk one tablespoon at a time until it comes together.
Roll the mixture into bite-size balls and place them on a lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until they’re golden and cooked through.
While they’re still hot, melt a little additional butter and stir in the Cheddar Bay seasoning packets. Lightly brush the tops of the sausage balls and let them rest for just a few minutes before serving.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Friendly
These sausage balls freeze beautifully. Roll them and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, place them straight from the freezer into a 375-degree oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Finish with the butter and seasoning just like you would fresh.
A seat for everyone
Good food is about more than recipes. It’s about making space, paying attention, and caring for the people we love. Whether you’re feeding gluten-free family members, friends, or guests you’re meeting for the first time, this is one of those recipes that makes everyone feel included.
Warm, comforting, and made to be shared.
Now that’s BombDiggity.