If you’re looking for a quick and delicious appetizer that packs a flavorful punch, our Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites recipe is just what you need. These bite-sized treats combine savory sausage with melted cheese and a hint of spice to create a crowd-pleasing snack perfect for game days, parties, or casual get-togethers.
Using Jimmy Dean sausage makes this recipe incredibly easy and ensures a rich, hearty taste every time. We love how these sausage bites come together in minutes, delivering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re serving them as finger food or a tasty snack, these loaded sausage bites are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites, gathering the right ingredients is key. Below we break down everything you’ll need into clear categories so prep is quick and efficient.
Sausage and Meat Ingredients
- 1 package (12 oz) Jimmy Dean Original Pork Sausage (ground)
- 4 slices of crispy bacon, chopped finely
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Cheese and Dairy Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild depending on preference)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for gooey texture
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (adds richness and binds the filling)
Additional Flavorings and Toppings
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for depth of flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions (optional topping for freshness)
| Ingredient Category | Key Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Sausage and Meat | Jimmy Dean Original Pork Sausage | 12 oz package |
| Bacon, chopped | 4 slices | |
| Onion, finely diced | 1/4 cup | |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove | |
| Cheese and Dairy | Cheddar cheese, shredded | 1 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 1/2 cup | |
| Cream cheese, softened | 2 tablespoons | |
| Additional Flavorings & Toppings | Smoked paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper, freshly ground | 1/4 teaspoon | |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1 tablespoon | |
| Green onions, sliced (optional) | 1/2 cup |
These ingredients combine to create the supremely flavorful and irresistibly cheesy Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites that guests crave.
Equipment Needed
To make our Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites perfectly, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Each tool plays a specific role in ensuring that preparation is smooth and the bites turn out deliciously crispy and flavorful.
Essential Tools for Preparation
- Mixing Bowl: We use a large mixing bowl to combine the sausage, cheeses, and seasonings evenly.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A medium skillet works best to cook the sausage and crisp the bacon before assembling the bites.
- Baking Sheet: For baking the loaded bites to golden perfection, a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper is ideal to prevent sticking and allow easy cleanup.
- Measuring Spoons & Cups: Precise measurement of spices, cheese, and other ingredients guarantees consistent flavor with every batch.
- Mixing Spoon or Spatula: To stir the mixture thoroughly without breaking the texture.
- Sharp Knife: For chopping the bacon and any additional toppings finely, ensuring even distribution.
Optional but Helpful Accessories
- Cooling Rack: Placing the bites on a cooling rack after baking helps maintain their crispiness.
- Toothpicks or Small Skewers: Handy for serving bite-sized portions, especially in party settings.
Equipment Overview Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Importance Level |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Combining ingredients | Essential |
| Skillet | Cooking sausage and bacon | Essential |
| Baking Sheet | Baking bites | Essential |
| Measuring Spoons/Cups | Accurate ingredient measurement | Essential |
| Mixing Spoon/Spatula | Stirring mixture | Essential |
| Sharp Knife | Chopping bacon/toppings | Essential |
| Cooling Rack | Keeping bites crispy | Optional |
| Toothpicks | Convenient serving | Optional |
Having this equipment ready before you start will save time and keep the entire process seamless. Let’s gather these tools to craft our irresistible Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites confidently and efficiently.
Preparation
Let’s get started on creating our Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites by carefully prepping the sausage, cheese, and toppings. Each step builds the foundation for that rich, packed flavor we’re aiming for.
Prepping the Sausage
- Remove the casing from the Jimmy Dean Original Pork Sausage if needed.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the sausage.
- Break the sausage apart with a spatula into small crumbles as it cooks.
- Cook thoroughly for about 6-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- Reserve a small amount of drippings in the skillet for additional flavor when cooking bacon.
Preparing the Cheese and Toppings
- Chop crispy bacon into bite-sized pieces after cooking in the reserved sausage drippings to keep flavor consistency.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for richness)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (for gooey melt)
- Add seasoning:
- Smoked paprika for depth
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optionally a pinch of garlic powder to enhance savoriness
- Mix cheese and seasonings gently until well combined.
- Keep the cheese mixture chilled until ready to assemble for easy handling.
| Ingredient | Preparation | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Jimmy Dean Pork Sausage | Remove casing, crumble and cook | 1 lb |
| Bacon | Cook until crispy, chop bite-sized | 6 strips |
| Cheddar Cheese | Shredded | 1 cup |
| Mozzarella Cheese | Shredded | 1 cup |
| Smoked Paprika | Seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Black Pepper | Freshly ground | ½ tsp |
| Garlic Powder (optional) | Seasoning | ¼ tsp |
Our next steps will bring these components together into irresistible loaded sausage bites, but for now, ensuring these elements are prepped correctly is key to a perfect outcome.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites that are bursting with bold flavors and irresistible textures. Each stage builds on the last for a perfect savory treat.
Cooking the Sausage Mixture
- Remove the casing from the Jimmy Dean Original Pork Sausage and place the meat in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is fully browned and no pink remains—about 7-9 minutes.
- Carefully drain excess fat from the skillet, reserving about 1 tablespoon of sausage drippings to keep a rich flavor base.
- Add the chopped crispy bacon to the skillet with the reserved drippings. Stir and cook for 2 minutes to combine flavors.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the sausage and bacon mixture to a mixing bowl. Allow it to cool slightly.
| Step | Action | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remove casing | Prepare sausage | – | Use fresh sausage |
| Cook sausage | Brown and crumble | 7-9 minutes | Medium heat |
| Drain fat | Reserve 1 tbsp drippings | Immediately | Pour off excess fat gently |
| Cook bacon | Combine with drippings and cook | 2 minutes | Crisp and chop beforehand |
| Cool mixture | Transfer to bowl | Until warm | Ready for cheese addition |
Assembling the Sausage Bites
- In the mixing bowl with the sausage and bacon mixture, add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder over the mixture.
- Using a sturdy spoon or spatula, fold all ingredients together until evenly combined.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to firm up the cheese blend.
- Once chilled, scoop out small portions—approximately 1 tablespoon each—and roll them into bite-sized balls.
Tip: Use a cookie scoop for uniform size and easier handling.
Baking the Loaded Sausage Bites
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the sausage balls on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the sausages are cooked through and the cheese melts and starts to turn golden.
- For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Remove the bites from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 minutes on a cooling rack.
- Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking.
| Baking Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 375°F | – | Use convection if possible |
| Bake sausage bites | 375°F | 15-18 minutes | Cheese should melt |
| Optional broiling | Broil | 1-2 minutes | Monitor carefully |
| Cool before serving | Room temp | 5 minutes | Helps set structure |
By following these precise steps, we ensure every Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bite is packed with savory goodness and irresistibly cheesy richness.
Serving Suggestions
Our Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites shine best when paired with complementary sides and dips that enhance their rich, savory taste. Here are our top recommendations to elevate your serving experience:
Dips and Sauces
Offering a variety of dips adds layers of flavor and invites guests to customize their bites. Consider these options:
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo: A creamy mayo base with a kick of sriracha perfect for balancing the sausage’s richness.
- Classic Ranch Dressing: A cool and herby contrast to the warm and cheesy bites.
- Honey Mustard Sauce: A sweet tangy dip that pairs beautifully with smoky bacon and sausage.
Accompaniments
These sides create a well-rounded appetizer spread that complements the bites without overpowering their flavor:
- Fresh Veggie Platter: Crisp celery sticks, carrot sticks, and cucumber slices provide refreshing crunch and balance.
- Pickled Jalapeños: Add a spicy tang that cuts through the cheese and meat.
Beverage Pairings
For optimal enjoyment, we suggest pairing the loaded sausage bites with the following drinks:
| Beverage Type | Flavor Profile | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Craft Beer | Hoppy IPA or Amber Ale | Bitterness cuts the fattiness of sausage |
| Sparkling Water | Light and Crisp | Refreshes the palate between bites |
| Red Wine | Medium-bodied Merlot or Zinfandel | Complements smoky, cheesy richness |
Presentation Tips
- Serve the bites warm on a large platter lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and rustic charm.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and fresh herb aroma.
- Use toothpicks or small appetizer forks for easy grabbing while mingling.
“The right accompaniments can turn our Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites from delicious snack into the star of your party table.”
By incorporating these serving suggestions, we ensure every bite bursts with flavor and every guest leaves impressed.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To ensure our Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites stay fresh and flavorful, planning ahead with proper make-ahead strategies and storage methods is key. Here are our best tips for prepping, storing, and reheating these irresistible appetizers.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the sausage mixture fully up to rolling into bite-sized balls. This saves time on the day of your event.
- After rolling, place the sausage bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or transfer into an airtight container.
- You can safely refrigerate the uncooked sausage bites for up to 24 hours before baking.
- For longer storage, freeze the uncooked bites in a single layer for about 1 hour until firm, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. This prevents sticking and preserves their shape.
Storage After Baking
- Once baked and cooled to room temperature, transfer the bites to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- For extended storage, freeze cooked sausage bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then move them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
To revive the savory flavors and crispiness of our Loaded Sausage Bites, follow these reheating tips:
| Method | Temperature & Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes | Keeps bites crispy on the outside |
| Microwave | 50% power for 1-2 minutes | Best for quick reheating but less crisp |
| Air Fryer | 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes | Ideal for restoring crunch without drying |
“For the best taste and texture, reheating in the oven or air fryer is preferred over the microwave.”
Additional Tips
- Avoid stacking bites before reheating to ensure even warming.
- Place a foil tent over the bites when reheating to prevent excessive browning.
- Serve immediately after reheating to enjoy optimum cheesiness and flavor.
By following these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips, we guarantee our Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites remain just as delightful whether fresh or reheated, making them perfect for any occasion or meal prep.
Conclusion
Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites bring together convenience and bold flavors in a way that’s sure to please any crowd. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they’re an easy addition to your appetizer lineup that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a satisfying snack, these bites deliver a perfect balance of cheesy, savory goodness. By following our tips for preparation, cooking, and serving, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser ready in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites?
Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites are cheesy, savory appetizers made with Jimmy Dean Original Pork Sausage, bacon, cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and seasoned with smoked paprika and black pepper. They are perfect for parties and game days.
What ingredients do I need to make these sausage bites?
You’ll need Jimmy Dean pork sausage, crispy bacon, cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, smoked paprika, black pepper, and optional garlic powder. Basic kitchen tools like a skillet and baking sheet are also essential.
How do I prepare the sausage for this recipe?
Remove the casing from the sausage, cook it in a skillet until browned, and drain excess fat while reserving some drippings for cooking the bacon.
Can I make the sausage bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate or freeze the uncooked bites. They can be baked later or stored cooked in the fridge for up to four days or frozen up to three months.
How should I reheat leftover sausage bites?
Reheat them in an oven or air fryer for best results to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture intact.
What dips pair well with these sausage bites?
Great dip choices include Spicy Sriracha Mayo, Classic Ranch Dressing, and Honey Mustard Sauce to complement the rich flavors.
What equipment is needed to make these sausage bites?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, skillet, rimmed baking sheet, measuring spoons, mixing spoon or spatula, sharp knife, and optionally a cooling rack and toothpicks.
How do I assemble the sausage bites before baking?
Mix cooked sausage and bacon with the cheese and seasonings, chill the mixture, then roll into bite-sized balls. Place on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden.
Are there any tips for serving these bites?
Serve them warm on a platter lined with parchment paper, garnish with fresh herbs, and provide toothpicks for easy eating. Pair with fresh veggies, pickled jalapeños, and preferred dips.
What is the cooking temperature and time for baking the sausage bites?
Bake the bites at 375°F (190°C) until cooked through and golden brown, then optionally broil briefly for extra crispiness. Cooling before serving helps maintain shape.