Looking for a savory, crispy, and protein-packed snack or appetizer that brings all the bold flavor of classic sausage balls—without flour, sugar, or unnecessary carbs? These Keto Sausage Balls are exactly what you need. With their golden almond flour coating, soft meat center, and signature buttery richness, this low-carb version delivers all the comfort of your favorite Southern bite—in a keto-approved, gluten-free, grain-free format.
Perfect for meal prep , keto-friendly snacks , or when you’re in the mood for something hearty but staying in ketosis, these simple sausage balls use just five clean ingredients to bring bold Mediterranean-meets-American comfort into your kitchen. Whether you’re doing strict ketosis , following a low-carb lifestyle , or simply love rich, handheld baked goods with depth and crunch, these 5-ingredient keto sausage balls will quickly become a go-to dish in your weekly rotation.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these perfect keto sausage balls from scratch , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s dive into the world of soft, crunchy, dairy-infused bliss!
Why You’ll Love These 5-Ingredient Keto Sausage Balls
These aren’t just any old meatballs—they’re a savory-meaty-outside, juicy-inside delight made with real ingredients that bring bold texture and taste together beautifully—in under 30 minutes!
Here’s why they stand out:
- 🥩 Bold meat base : Made with ground pork or beef for natural moisture and protein.
- 🍞 Low-carb flour alternative : Almond flour gives structure without gluten overload.
- 🧈 Butter-finished magic : Adds savoriness and golden color naturally.
- 🥣 Easy to make : Just mix, roll, and bake—no mixer required!
- ⏱️ Ready in under 25–30 minutes
- 🧁 Great for batch prep or freezer storage
- 🧼 Minimal cleanup : One bowl = zero mess!
Whether you’re making them for yourself after work, packing for lunch, or sharing at a weekend gathering, these sausage balls will quickly become a go-to handheld meal or breakfast item.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sausage Balls:
- 1 lb ground pork sausage or Italian-style breakfast sausage
- 1/2 cup almond flour (or crushed pork rinds for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional for extra savoriness)
Optional: Add fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for exotic contrast.
Final Assembly:
- Crushed pecans or cacao nibs (for extra crunch)
- A few drops of hot sauce or balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil or chives for garnish
- Edible gold dust or sea salt flakes for festive flair
Pro Tip: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for sweet-savory fusion flair.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line a baking sheet or silicone tray with parchment paper or lightly grease with avocado oil or butter.
Pro Tip: Use a cast iron skillet for deeper caramelization and crispier edges.
Step 2: Mix Everything Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Ground sausage
- Almond flour or crushed pork rinds
- Parmesan cheese
- Melted butter or oil
- Garlic powder or herbs (optional)
Mix until fully incorporated and slightly sticky.
Note: Don’t overmix—keep some texture for visual appeal.
Step 3: Roll Into Bites
Using clean hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared tray.
Space evenly to allow for even browning.
Tip: Use a cookie scoop for perfectly uniform size and shape.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Moist
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes , or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
Let cool slightly before serving to prevent burning your tongue.
Cooling helps them firm up and prevents crumbling during slicing.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve!
Once baked, top with:
- Extra cheese or chili flakes
- Fresh herbs or edible glitter
- Pickled vegetables or fermented kraut for tangy balance
- A drizzle of olive oil or chipotle mayo
Serve warm with:
- Guacamole or ranch dip
- Over greens with a vinegar dressing
- In lettuce wraps for handheld eats
- As part of a keto charcuterie board
Enjoy every savory, cheesy bite of your 5-Ingredient Keto Sausage Balls !
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 20 Servings / ~1 ball per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~90 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~8 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~3 g |
| Cholesterol | ~25 mg |
| Sodium | ~150 mg |
| Total Carbs | ~2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~1 g |
| Net Carbs | ~1 g |
| Protein | ~6 g |
Note: Values may vary based on exact measurements and optional add-ins.
Tips for the Best Sausage Balls
- Use quality sausage and cheese – Ensures better binding and deeper flavor infusion.
- Don’t skip resting time – Keeps everything intact and prevents melting during topping.
- Layer spices early and late – Helps build complex taste during baking and finishing touches.
- Make ahead and store separately – Keeps best refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Double the batch for future meals – Great for freezing and reheating later.
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:
Bacon-Wrapped Sausage Bites
Wrap each ball in half a slice of bacon before baking for smoky contrast.
No-Bake Energy Bowl
Chill the mixture and roll into cold bites for grab-and-go snacks.
Vegan Option
Use plant-based crumbles and vegan cheese shreds for dairy-free magic.
Spicy Kick
Add sriracha to the mix or top with jalapeños for fiery contrast.
Egg Salad Sausage Twist
Crush cooled balls and mix with deviled egg mash for brunch-style bites.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are these truly keto-friendly?
Yes! With only ~1g net carbs per ball , it fits perfectly within a ketogenic lifestyle.
Can I use regular flour or breadcrumbs?
Not recommended—standard flour and breadcrumbs are high in carbs. Stick with almond flour and pork rinds for keto compliance.
How do I store leftover sausage balls?
Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days . Reheat gently in oven or air fryer.
What kind of sausage works best?
Look for unsweetened, keto-compliant sausage blends with no added starch or sugar.
Can I fry instead of baking?
Yes! Fry in avocado oil at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes per side for extra crispiness.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
These 5-Ingredient Keto Sausage Balls work because of their perfect balance of textures and bold flavors:
- The almond flour gives body and crunch , mimicking traditional coatings without gluten.
- The sausage adds protein power and savoriness , soaking up seasonings naturally.
- And the Parmesan melts into a golden blanket , completing the American-European fusion experience.
It’s the kind of snack that makes eating clean feel indulgent—because it tastes so good.
Serving Suggestions
Looking for creative ways to serve your keto sausage balls beyond just a plate? Here are some ideas:
In Lunchboxes
Pack with veggies, pickles, or cheese for a balanced keto lunch.
At a Kids’ Party
Arrange on a platter with toothpicks for appetizer servings.
With Dipping Sauces
Try tzatziki, ranch, or horseradish for extra flair.
Gift-Worthy Packaging
Wrap individual pieces in parchment paper and tie with twine for thoughtful homemade gifts.
Over Greens
Top arugula or kale with warm sausage balls and olive oil vinaigrette for fusion flair.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this dish special:
Ground Pork / Beef
High in B vitamins and iron—supports muscle repair and energy levels.
Almond Flour
Rich in healthy fats and magnesium—great for brain function and satiety.
Parmesan Cheese / Herbs
Natural anti-inflammatory compounds—boosts immunity and flavor naturally.
Even though this is a snack, it’s packed with nutrients that make it more than just a treat—it’s a smart addition to your balanced lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Treat for Comfort Snack Lovers
These Keto Sausage Balls prove that going low-carb doesn’t mean missing out on bold, comforting global flavors. With its crispy shell, gooey center, and signature meaty finish, it’s the kind of dish that turns a simple meatball into something magical—even without sugary sauces or starchy coatings.
Whether you’re new to keto meal prep, looking for a fast weeknight appetizer idea, or want to impress with homemade flair, these sausage balls deserve a spot in your kitchen. They’re easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.
So go ahead—whip up a batch, share them with friends, or savor them solo. Either way, you’re treating yourself to something worth celebrating.
Print
5-Ingredient Keto Sausage Balls – Savory, Crispy & Perfectly Low-Carb!
- Total Time: 30 mins
Description
Savory, cheesy, and perfectly bite-sized — these 5-ingredient keto sausage balls are a snap to make and perfect for breakfast, appetizers, or a quick snack!
Ingredients
1 lb pork breakfast sausage (or ground pork)
8 oz cream cheese , softened
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp smoked paprika or red pepper flakes (optional for extra kick)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for richer flavor)
FOR KETO VERSION:
Use full-fat dairy and ensure your sausage is sugar-free. For a dairy-free option, use vegan sausage and nut-based cream cheese.
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .
In a large bowl, mix sausage meat , cream cheese , garlic powder , paprika or red pepper flakes , and Parmesan cheese until fully combined.
Use your hands to roll the mixture into 1-inch balls .
Place sausage balls on a lined baking sheet or silicone mat.
Bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Optional: Serve warm with toothpicks at parties or as a side at holiday meals.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 20–24 balls
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 6g