Keto Sausage Balls: Calorie Count And Nutrition Facts

Keto sausage balls are a popular appetizer or snack, and a great option for those following a keto diet. They are typically made with a combination of sausage meat, cheese, and almond flour, and baked in the oven. With a calorie count of around 60-120 per ball, they are a tasty and satisfying treat, but it's important to be mindful of portion sizes due to their high-fat content. This versatile recipe can be adapted to include different types of cheese and sausage, and can be served as a holiday appetizer or a quick and easy meal.

Keto Sausage Balls Nutrition Information

Keto sausage balls are a delicious, low-carb, gluten-free snack or appetizer. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, baby showers, and potlucks. This traditional recipe has been adapted to fit a keto diet by substituting almond or coconut flour for the traditional biscuit mix.

A single keto sausage ball contains around 62-124 calories, with 76 calories being the average. The calorie composition is roughly 75% fat, 4% carbs, and 21% protein. They are high in saturated fat and calories, so it is important to consume them in moderation.

The ingredients typically include breakfast sausage, almond or coconut flour, shredded cheddar cheese, and sometimes additional spices, such as garlic powder or Dijon mustard. The sausage and cheese are mixed together, rolled into balls, and then baked.

Keto sausage balls can be served as-is or with a variety of dips, such as low-carb barbecue sauce, dairy-free keto ranch dressing, or honey mustard. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature and are a versatile snack that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences.

When preparing keto sausage balls, it is important to note that they should not be pre-cooked, as this will affect the final result. Additionally, mixing in small batches can help ensure the ingredients are well combined without becoming dry.

Calories in Keto Sausage Balls

Keto sausage balls are a popular appetizer or snack, often served during the holidays. They are a low-carb alternative to traditional sausage balls, typically made with almond flour instead of biscuit mix. The number of calories in a keto sausage ball can vary depending on the ingredients used and the size of the ball.

According to one source, a single keto sausage ball contains approximately 76 calories. The calorie breakdown for this ball is 75% fat, 4% carbs, and 21% protein. However, another source suggests that a keto sausage ball can have up to 124 calories per ball, with a total fat content of 11g and a protein content of 6g. This variation in calorie count may be due to differences in the ingredients used, such as the type of sausage, cheese, or flour.

When preparing keto sausage balls, it is essential to consider the number of servings or balls the recipe yields. For example, one recipe yields 24 servings, with each serving consisting of four sausage balls. This would mean that each ball contains approximately 26 calories, assuming an even distribution of calories across the servings.

Additionally, the cooking method and serving suggestions can also impact the calorie count. Some recipes recommend baking the sausage balls for 20 to 30 minutes at 350°F, while others suggest a higher temperature of 375°F for a shorter duration. Serving keto sausage balls with a side of low-carb barbecue sauce or dipping them in honey mustard can also affect the overall calorie intake.

It is worth noting that keto sausage balls are considered "savory fat bombs," and caution is advised as they are high in both saturated fat and calories. They are best enjoyed in moderation and shared with others during the holidays or at parties to avoid overindulgence.

Calories per Ingredient

The calorie count of a keto sausage ball will depend on the ingredients used and the quantity of the ball. Here is a breakdown of the calories per ingredient for some common keto sausage ball recipes:

Almond Flour

Almond flour is a popular substitute for traditional bisquick in keto sausage ball recipes. A 1/4 cup serving of Bob's Red Mill Almond Flour contains 27 calories.

Sausage

The type of sausage used can vary, but it is typically a mild or spicy Italian sausage or breakfast sausage. A serving of 0.67 oz of mild pork sausage contains 103 calories.

Cheese

Different types of cheese can be used in keto sausage balls, such as sharp cheddar, parmesan, or cream cheese. A serving of 0.33 oz of sharp cheddar cheese contains 36 calories. Parmesan cheese and cream cheese will also add calories to the sausage balls, but the exact amount will depend on the quantity used.

Butter

Some recipes call for a small amount of butter, typically around 0.04 tbsp. This adds about 4 calories to the sausage ball.

Egg

Eggs are used in some keto sausage ball recipes, typically one large egg per batch of sausage balls. The egg white alone contains about 1 calorie.

Baking Powder

Baking powder is used in some recipes, but it contributes a negligible amount of calories to the overall dish.

The total calorie count for a keto sausage ball will depend on the number of ingredients used and the serving size. A single keto sausage ball typically contains between 60 and 120 calories.

Tips for Making Low-Carb Sausage Balls

Ingredients

As a base, you'll need ground sausage, almond flour or coconut flour, shredded cheese, and baking powder. You can use any kind of ground sausage, such as ground pork, Italian sausage, breakfast sausage, or even ground chicken or turkey. For the shredded cheese, sharp cheddar is a popular choice, but you can also use mild cheddar or any other variety of keto cheese. Parmesan cheese is another option, but it's harder and may not melt as well.

For binding the mixture, you'll need eggs, cream cheese, or sour cream. Butter can also be added for richness and moisture.

Flavourings and Seasonings

You can add dried herbs like thyme or oregano, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh garlic cloves. For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.

Baking Tips

Preheat your oven to around 350-400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with a wire cooling rack, or use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Combine all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl, using your hands to mix until well incorporated. Don't overmix the meat, as this can make it rubbery.

Form the mixture into 1 1/2- to 2-inch meatballs, placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

For a more rounded shape, chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before shaping it into balls. This also makes it easier to handle.

To prevent sticking, twist the balls on the baking sheet halfway through the baking process.

Serving Suggestions

Keto sausage balls are a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a meal. They can be served with a side of low-carb barbecue sauce, dairy-free keto ranch dressing, or keto chive blue cheese dressing.

They're also great for breakfast, served with eggs, or as part of a hearty salad for lunch or dinner.

Storage and Reheating

Keto sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or frozen for up to 4 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F or use a microwave until warm. They can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

How Long to Cook Sausage Balls?

Sausage balls are a delicious and easy-to-make snack, perfect for any occasion. Whether you're serving them as a holiday appetiser or a game-day treat, getting the cooking time right is crucial to ensure they come out perfectly.

The cooking time for sausage balls will depend on the size of the balls and the oven temperature. Most recipes call for an oven temperature of around 350°F (175°C). For smaller, walnut-sized balls, bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Larger balls, around 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter, may take a little longer, up to 30 minutes.

It's important to ensure that your sausage balls are fully cooked before serving. The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the centre of the balls has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If the sausage balls are not fully cooked, return them to the oven and check again in a few minutes.

When baking sausage balls, it's recommended to line a rimmed baking sheet with a wire cooling rack. This allows the hot air to circulate around the balls and cook them evenly. You can also bake them directly on a baking sheet, but be sure to leave some space between the balls to ensure even cooking.

For best results, it's also crucial to start with room-temperature ingredients. Combine the sausage, biscuit mix, and cheese in a large bowl, mixing with your hands until well incorporated. Then, form the mixture into balls of the desired size and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

By following these simple tips and techniques, you'll be sure to end up with delicious, perfectly cooked sausage balls every time!

Frequently asked questions