Doritos Sausage Balls Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound fresh Mexican chorizo, casings removed
• 1/2 pound ground pork or mild breakfast sausage, casings removed
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose baking mix (such as Bisquick)
• 3/4 cup finely ground nacho cheese-flavored chips (such as Doritos)
• 1 (8-ounce) package pre-shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped pickled jalapeno
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup prepared salsa

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper, and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the chorizo, ground pork (or breakfast sausage), Bisquick, nacho cheese chips, shredded cheese, pickled jalapeno, and fresh cilantro. Mix with the paddle attachment until the mixture is well-blended.
3. Using a small ice cream scoop, scoop out 1-inch portions of the sausage mixture. Roll them into balls and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and golden on the outside.
5. While the sausage balls are baking, combine the sour cream and salsa in a small bowl. Stir to blend.
6. Once the sausage balls are done baking, remove them from the oven. Serve them warm with the sour cream and salsa dip on the side.

Cook's Note

You can prepare these sausage balls in advance. Simply form the balls and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe . When you're ready to serve, bake them directly from the freezer at 350F for 30 to 35 minutes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 327
• Total Fat: 24g (31% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 10g (51% DV)
• Cholesterol: 62mg (21% DV)
• Sodium: 713mg (31% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 12g (5% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% DV)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 14g (29% DV)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% DV)
• Calcium: 177mg (14% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (6% DV)
• Potassium: 231mg (5% DV)

Percent Daily Values (DV) are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin of the Doritos Sausage Balls

The Doritos Sausage Balls recipe combines two American favorites: savory sausage and crunchy Doritos chips. This fusion of flavors is perfect for gatherings and has become a staple in American appetizer culture. While sausage balls themselves have been around for decades, the addition of Doritos is a more recent innovation. The idea was likely inspired by the popularity of nacho-flavored snacks like Doritos, which pair well with the rich, savory taste of sausage. This simple but bold recipe became an instant hit at parties, tailgates, and holiday celebrations due to its irresistible crunch and flavor.

Regional Variations and Unique Features

While Doritos Sausage Balls are popular across the United States, the recipe has regional variations based on local preferences. For instance, in the Southwest, you might find the inclusion of more spices, such as chili powder or cumin, to add a bit of heat. In contrast, in the Midwest, the flavor is often more subtle, relying on the cheese and sausage blend to carry the dish. The key ingredient that sets this recipe apart from traditional sausage balls is the incorporation of finely ground Doritos, which replaces breadcrumbs or flour, creating a unique flavor and texture.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While sausage balls are a common appetizer at many gatherings, Doritos Sausage Balls stand out due to their use of flavored chips as a binding and flavoring agent. Traditional sausage balls are typically made with sausage, cheese, and a flour-based mix like Bisquick. In contrast, Doritos Sausage Balls use Doritos for an added layer of flavor and crunch. This addition makes the sausage balls more savory and tangy, with a noticeable nacho cheese flavor that you wouldn't find in a regular sausage ball recipe.

Where Are Doritos Sausage Balls Typically Served?

Doritos Sausage Balls are commonly served at informal events such as tailgates, parties, and potlucks. Their finger-food nature makes them perfect for snacking while watching sports or enjoying a casual gathering with friends. They are also a popular choice for holiday parties, where their unique flavor profile adds a fun twist to the traditional appetizer spread. Whether served alongside other snacks or as the main attraction, these sausage balls never fail to impress guests with their bold and unexpected flavors.

Interesting Facts About Doritos Sausage Balls

Did you know that the combination of Doritos and sausage has its roots in the American love for bold, flavorful snacks? The Doritos brand, famous for its distinctive nacho cheese flavor, was first introduced in 1964 by Frito-Lay, and it quickly became a household name. Sausage balls, on the other hand, date back even further, originating in the southern United States. Combining these two into a single dish was a stroke of culinary genius that brought together the best of both worlds.

Another interesting tidbit is that Doritos Sausage Balls are incredibly versatile. You can easily make them in advance by forming the balls and freezing them. When you're ready to serve, simply bake them directly from the freezer, saving you time on the big day!

FAQ about Doritos Sausage Balls Recipe

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