Rae’s Carnivore Sausage Balls

Rae’s Carnivore Sausage Balls Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground sausage (pork, beef, or a mix)
• 1 cup (4 oz / 113g) shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, optional for strict carnivore)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor and binding)
• 1/2 tsp salt (optional, depending on the seasoning of your sausage)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (optional)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional, for flavor)
• 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional, for flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheese (if using), egg, Parmesan cheese (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
   • Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. It may be easier to use your hands for this step.
3. Form the Sausage Balls:
   • Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls. You should get about 20-24 sausage balls, depending on the size.
4. Bake:
   • Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
5. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
   • Serve warm, or cool completely and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tips:

• For a stricter carnivore version, omit the Parmesan cheese and seasonings. Just use sausage, egg, and cheese (if allowed in your diet).
• You can also make these with ground beef or chicken if you prefer a different meat base.
• These sausage balls freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely and then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (per sausage ball, about 24 servings):

• Calories: ~80 kcal
• Protein: ~6g
• Fat: ~6g
• Carbohydrates: ~0.5g (depending on cheese and seasonings used)
• Fiber: 0g

These Carnivore Sausage Balls are a delicious and satisfying snack or meal component for those on a carnivore or low-carb diet. Enjoy them on their own, or pair with your favorite carnivore-friendly dip!