Cheesy sausage pops

Cheesy sausage pops are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, combining ground beef, mozzarella, and fresh vegetables. These flavourful bites are pan-fried to golden perfection, making them ideal for appetizers or a fun dining option.

23 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 35 min

Ingredients:

1 egg
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
18 oz ground beef (80/20%)
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1 carrot
1 onion
1/2 cup olive oil

Cheesy sausage pops are a delicious and unique twist to the traditional meatball recipe. These savory morsels are packed with flavorful ingredients like ground beef, mozzarella cheese, and a touch of fresh vegetables. Perfect for appetizers or a fun dinner option, they are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Grate 1 carrot using a fine grater.
- Finely chop 1 onion.
- Shred 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese if not pre-shredded.

2. Mix the Meat Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 18 oz of ground beef, the grated carrot, chopped onion, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Crack the egg into the mixture and add 1/2 cup of bread crumbs.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste (optional).
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

3. Form the Pops:
- Using your hands, shape the meat mixture into small balls or 'pops'. Each should be about the size of a golf ball.

4. Prepare the Flour Coating:
- Place 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour in a shallow dish.

5. Coat the Pops:
- Roll each meatball in the flour, ensuring each ball is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

6. Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a large frying pan, pour in 1/2 cup of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.

7. Cook the Pops:
- Carefully place the flour-coated meatballs into the hot oil.
- Fry the meatballs in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Cook each meatball for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Use tongs or a fork to turn the meatballs and ensure even cooking on all sides.

8. Drain the Pops:
- Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

9. Serve:
- Serve the cheesy sausage pops hot as a delicious appetizer or snack.

Cheesy sausage pops are easy to make and incredibly versatile. Whether served as appetizers or part of a main course, their crispy exterior and gooey cheese-filled center will leave everyone asking for more. Don't forget to experiment with dipping sauces to elevate their taste even further!

Cheesy sausage pops FAQ:

What is the cooking time for Cheesy Sausage Pops?

Each side should be cooked for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, making the total cooking time around 6-8 minutes per batch.

How do I know when the Cheesy Sausage Pops are done?

The pops should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure the ground beef is fully cooked.

Can I make substitutions for the ground beef in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative. Adjust seasoning and cooking time as needed.

How should I store leftover Cheesy Sausage Pops?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

What pan size is best for frying Cheesy Sausage Pops?

A large frying pan or skillet is best, allowing enough space to cook in batches without overcrowding, which ensures even cooking.

Cooking Tips:

- 1: For even cooking, make sure to form the sausage pops into uniform sizes.

- 2: Refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes before shaping the pops to make them easier to handle.

- 3: Finely grate the carrot and onion to integrate them better into the mixture and enhance their flavors without overpowering the dish.

- 4: If you prefer a crispier texture, consider baking the sausage pops at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying them in olive oil.

- 5: To add some spice, include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.

- 6: Serve the sausage pops with a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli for added flavor.

Nutrition Facts

14 Servings
Calories 140kcal
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 7g
Fiber 0.55g
Sugar 0.92g
Fat 18g

Cheesy sausage pops