Zucchini may not be the first ingredient that comes to mind when you’re craving a savory, cheesy snack—but these sausage zucchini balls will change that in one bite. Packed with flavor and just the right balance of moisture and texture, this recipe is a weeknight hero and a party favorite rolled into one. With only four main ingredients and a prep time that won’t eat up your evening, these little bites sneak in veggies without compromising on taste. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, prepping snacks for the week, or looking for a freezer-friendly appetizer, this is one zucchini recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Table of Contents
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These zucchini sausage balls check every box for a recipe that’s both practical and irresistible. Here’s why they’re bound to become a household favorite:
- Only 4 Ingredients: You probably already have everything in your fridge and pantry—zucchini, sausage, cheese, and Bisquick.
- Fast and Fuss-Free: From mixing bowl to table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy days.
- Hidden Veggies: Great way to get more zucchini into your family’s diet, especially for picky eaters.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Snack, appetizer, lunchbox addition, or even a light dinner with salad or pasta.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These freeze like a dream. Reheat when needed—no mess, no hassle.
🧂 Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these savory sausage zucchini balls:
- 2 cups thawed and drained frozen zucchini (or freshly grated and squeezed)
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix (or homemade substitute)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or any good melting cheese)
✅ Pro tip: Make sure the zucchini is thoroughly drained to prevent soggy results.
👩🍳 Instructions
Follow these simple steps for perfectly golden zucchini sausage balls every time:
- Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. - Drain the zucchini
If using frozen zucchini, make sure it’s completely thawed. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. - Mix the ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, sausage, Bisquick, and shredded cheese. Mix with your hands until everything is evenly incorporated and the mixture holds together. - Shape the balls
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands or a small cookie scoop. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. - Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, turning once halfway through. They should be golden brown and cooked through with no pink in the sausage. - Serve or store
Serve warm, or let them cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. They reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.
⏱️ Recipe Details
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you plan:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 (makes about 20–24 balls, depending on size)
These sausage zucchini balls are ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prepping for snacks and lunches.
🧮 Nutrition Facts (Estimated per Serving)
Note: Based on 4 servings
- Calories: ~700–750
- Protein: ~25–30g
- Fat: ~45–50g
- Carbohydrates: ~35–40g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~2g
- Sodium: ~800–1000mg
These estimates may vary based on sausage brand, cheese type, and exact portion sizes. You can reduce fat or sodium by using turkey sausage or a low-sodium cheese blend.
💡 Tips & Variations
Here’s how to make your zucchini sausage balls even better — or change them up based on what you have on hand:
🔪 Expert Tips:
- Drain the zucchini well: Excess moisture = mushy texture. Use a towel and squeeze hard!
- Pre-cook the sausage (optional): If you’re unsure about bake time, browning the sausage first helps guarantee it’s cooked through.
- Use a cookie scoop: Keeps the size consistent for even baking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the balls room to brown nicely.
🌀 Variations:
- Swap the sausage: Try spicy Italian, turkey sausage, or even chorizo for bold flavor.
- Change the cheese: Pepper jack, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack add different flavors and melt profiles.
- Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free baking mix in place of Bisquick.
- Add seasonings: A pinch of garlic powder, dried herbs, or red pepper flakes never hurts.
Sausage Zucchini Balls
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Measuring cups
- Clean towel (for draining zucchini)
- Cookie scoop (optional)
Ingredients
- – 2 cups thawed and drained frozen zucchini or freshly grated and squeezed
- – 1 lb breakfast sausage mild or spicy
- – 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- – 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- **Preheat the oven** to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it.
- **Drain the zucchini** thoroughly using a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
- **Combine ingredients** in a large bowl: zucchini, sausage, Bisquick, and shredded cheese. Mix until evenly combined.
- **Form into 1-inch balls** using your hands or a small scoop. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- **Bake for 12–15 minutes**, turning halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
- **Serve hot**, or cool and store for later. Reheat as needed.
Notes
❓ FAQs
Can I use fresh zucchini instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just grate it and squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean towel.
Do I need to cook the sausage first?
Nope — as long as you’re using ground breakfast sausage, it will cook in the oven. But you can brown it beforehand if you prefer a firmer texture.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Shape them in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze uncooked for up to 3 months.
How should I reheat them?
Microwave for 30–45 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. From frozen, add a few extra minutes.
What can I serve with these?
They’re perfect with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara. You can also pair them with pasta or a side salad for a full meal.
📝 Conclusion
Zucchini has never tasted this good! These cheesy, savory sausage zucchini balls are everything you want in a quick, satisfying snack or party appetizer. With just a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes from start to finish, this is a go-to recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether you’re sneaking in more veggies for your kids or prepping freezer-friendly bites for game day, these little guys deliver big flavor with minimal effort.
Try them once, and don’t be surprised if they become a permanent fixture in your recipe rotation!