SPICY MAPLE SAUSAGE BALLS WITH MUSTARD DIPPING SAUCE

One of the first things my husband ever made for me was his Papa Mac’s cheesy sausage balls. To this day, whenever we have these addictive, bite-size snacks, he is reminded of his grandfather. This recipe makes quite a few, but a platter of sausage balls never lasts long in a crowd!

SAUSAGE BALLS

1 pound spicy bulk breakfast sausage

3 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)

2 cups freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

¼ cup maple syrup

DIPPING SAUCE

1 cup ketchup

¼ cup Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons brown sugar

To make the sausage balls, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Using your hands, mix together the sausage, baking mix, cheese, and maple syrup in a large bowl. Once the ingredients are well combined, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls, and place them on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake the sausage balls for 26 to 28 minutes, until they are slightly golden.

To make the dipping sauce, mix together the ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. Serve with the sausage balls.

MAKES 40 PIECES.