Fire Balls
Description
These Fire Balls are a bold, interactive appetizer that balances heat with savory richness. Canned jalapeño peppers are stuffed with mozzarella cheese, then wrapped in a mixture of ground sausage and buttermilk baking mix. The result is a crispy, golden exterior giving way to a spicy, cheesy center. They are perfect for game day parties, potlucks, or as a unique starter before a main course. The combination of the tangy baking mix, spicy peppers, and melted cheese creates a comforting yet exciting flavor profile that guests will love. Simple to assemble and cook, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 375ðF (190ðC) if baking, or have a skillet ready for frying.
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Drain canned jalapeño peppers and rinse them under cold water.
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Cut off the stem ends of the peppers and remove most of the seeds, leaving a few if you prefer extra heat.
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Lightly stuff each pepper with a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.
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In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, buttermilk baking mix, and remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
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Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.
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Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into a small flat patty.
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Place a stuffed pepper in the center of each patty.
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Wrap the dough around the pepper, sealing it completely to form a ball.
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If using bread crumbs, place them in a plastic bag and shake the balls inside to coat, or roll them in the crumbs on a plate.
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Heat oil in a lightly greased skillet over medium heat.
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Brown the fire balls on all sides, turning frequently, until the sausage is thoroughly cooked and the exterior is golden brown.
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Serve warm as an appetizer.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 528.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 34.7g54%
- Saturated Fat 21.7g109%
- Cholesterol 106.2mg36%
- Sodium 982.5mg41%
- Total Carbohydrate 26.5g9%
- Dietary Fiber 6.0g24%
- Sugars 19.5g
- Protein 38.2g77%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use only the baking mix and cheese, or substitute with a plant-based sausage crumble.
You can bake these instead of frying. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375ðF for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
Adjust the heat level by controlling how many seeds remain in the jalapeños.
Serve with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy aioli for dipping.