Ultimate Keto Breakfast Sausage Balls (Low-Carb, High-Protein & Easy Meal Prep!)
Start your day right (or snack anytime!) with these incredibly flavorful Ultimate Keto Breakfast Sausage Balls! Packed with savory ground meats, rich cheese, and a blend of aromatic seasonings, these tender, juicy bites are super easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. They’re naturally low-carb, high-protein, and gluten-free – a fantastic on-the-go breakfast or snack!
Yields: Approximately 40-50 small balls (depending on size) Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 recommended)
- 2 pounds ground breakfast sausage (mild or hot, depending on preference; KETO NOTE: Crucial to check for no added sugar or fillers)
- 1 pound (4 cups) shredded cheese of choice (e.g., sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, or a mix; freshly shredded recommended)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust based on sausage saltiness)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet(s)
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper (for lining)
- Medium cookie scoop (optional, for even sizing)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven & Prep Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line one or two large baking sheets with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Combine Ingredients: In a very large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, ground beef, ground breakfast sausage, shredded cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried parsley flakes, and onion powder.
- Using your hands (gloves recommended!) or a sturdy stand mixer, mix all ingredients together until thoroughly combined. It’s important to mix well to ensure seasonings and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
- Form Sausage Balls: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, slightly larger than a golf ball (about 1.5 – 2 inches in diameter). Aim for uniform size for even cooking.
- Place the formed sausage balls in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet(s), leaving a little space between each.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sausage balls are cooked through (internal temperature reaches 160°F / 71°C for ground meat), golden brown, and slightly crispy on the outside. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your balls and your oven.
- Drain & Serve: Carefully remove the baking sheet(s) from the oven. You may want to blot any excess grease with paper towels if desired.
- Serve hot or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious breakfast sausage balls!
Tips for Success:
- Sausage Choice is KEY for Keto: This is the most critical ingredient. Many breakfast sausages contain hidden sugars (like corn syrup or dextrose). Always check the ingredient list for 0g added sugar or very low total carbs. Brands like Jimmy Dean’s All Natural or some specialized keto sausages are good options.
- Freshly Shredded Cheese: While pre-shredded works, freshly shredded cheese often melts better and combines more seamlessly.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooked sausage balls can be dry. Cook until just done.
- Even Sizing: Try to make the balls a uniform size so they cook evenly. A cookie scoop can be very helpful.
- Versatility: These are great for breakfast, but also as a snack, appetizer, or even part of a meal.
- Flavor Boosts: A tiny pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you like a little spice.
Storage: Store cooked Keto Breakfast Sausage Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the microwave, oven, or air fryer until warmed through.
Recipe Analysis & Dietary Classification
- High Protein: Yes, this recipe is very high in protein from the ground meats and eggs.
- Low-Carb: Yes, this recipe is very low-carb, provided the ground breakfast sausage is sugar-free/low-carb.
- Keto: Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly, with one critical check:
- Ground Breakfast Sausage: This is the most important ingredient for keto compliance. Many commercial breakfast sausages contain added sugars (dextrose, corn syrup, etc.) that can significantly increase the carb count. Users must verify the label to ensure it’s sugar-free or has very minimal net carbs.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided the ground breakfast sausage is certified gluten-free.
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