Roscoe's Recipes

Southern Recipes and Soul Food

Category: Pork

Low Carb Sausage Balls: The Ultimate Keto-Friendly Snack for Busy Families and Game Day
Looking for a simple, low carb snack that’s perfect for busy mornings, game day parties, or meal prep?

Low carb sausage balls are a go-to recipe that fits every occasion. Packed with protein, full of flavor, and naturally keto-friendly, these sausage balls are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, cutting back on carbs, or just want a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is a must-have in your rotation.

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What Makes Low Carb Sausage Balls So Popular?

Traditional sausage balls rely on high-carb baking mixes, but this low carb version skips the flour entirely. By using protein-rich ingredients and a touch of creamy cheese, these sausage balls are:
- Keto-friendly and low in carbs
- Moist and flavorful thanks to cream cheese
- Quick to prepare with minimal ingredients
- Perfectly sized for snacking, meal prep, or party trays
They’re not just for breakfast—these sausage balls are versatile enough to serve at lunch, dinner, or even as a game day appetizer.

When to Make Low Carb Sausage Balls

These sausage balls are ideal for year-round snacking:
- Weekday meal prep: Bake a batch on Sunday for quick grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks during the week.
- Game day favorites: Serve them as a hearty appetizer at football parties or watch parties.
- Holiday gatherings: Add them to party trays or brunch spreads.
- Freezer-friendly option: They freeze beautifully, so you always have a low carb snack on hand.
No matter the season, low carb sausage balls are an easy solution when you need something quick, filling, and crowd-pleasing.

Creative Ways to Serve Low Carb Sausage Balls

While breakfast and brunch are popular times to enjoy sausage balls, don’t stop there:
- Game day snacks: Pair with sugar-free BBQ sauce, spicy mustard, or ranch.
- Lunchbox addition: Great for adults and teens looking for a high-protein, low carb option.
- Appetizers: Serve with toothpicks at parties or casual get-togethers.
- Meal prep combos: Add alongside eggs or avocado for a balanced, keto-friendly meal.
With a little creativity, sausage balls become a versatile low carb crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Tips for Perfect Low Carb Sausage Balls

To get the best results:
- Use cream cheese to bind the mixture and keep it moist.
- Roll balls to an even size for consistent baking.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Freeze extras by flash freezing on a sheet first, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
These simple tips ensure every bite is golden, flavorful, and satisfying.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

Low carb sausage balls are a hit with:
- Keto followers and low carb enthusiasts
- Busy families looking for quick breakfast or snack options
- Game day hosts needing easy appetizers
- Kids and picky eaters who love familiar flavors without complicated ingredients
- Budget-conscious cooks since this recipe is easy to double or triple
This recipe hits all the marks: quick, easy, low carb, and family-friendly.

FAQs About Low Carb Sausage Balls

1. Can I make sausage balls without flour or baking mix?
Yes! This recipe relies on sausage, cheese, eggs, and cream cheese, creating a naturally low carb, gluten-free sausage ball that holds together beautifully.

2. Are low carb sausage balls keto-friendly?
Absolutely. With minimal carbs and plenty of protein and fat, they’re perfect for a keto diet.

3. How should I store and reheat them?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain a crispy exterior.

4. Can I freeze them?
Yes! Flash freeze on a baking sheet, transfer to a freezer bag, and reheat as needed for easy meal prep.

5. What types of sausage and cheese work best?
Mild, hot, or sage-flavored ground pork sausage all work. Cheddar is a favorite, but mozzarella or pepper jack can also add variety.

6. Why do sausage balls sometimes fall apart?
Using lean sausage or under-mixing can cause crumbly balls. Cream cheese helps bind everything and adds moisture.

7. Can I cook them in the air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 350°F for 10–12 minutes for a crispy outside without heating the oven.

Why This Low Carb Sausage Ball Recipe Works

This recipe is:
- Quick and simple: Minimal ingredients, minimal prep
- Crowd-friendly: Perfect for parties or meal prep
- Keto-approved: Low carb, high protein, satisfying
- Versatile: Breakfast, snack, lunch, or game day appetizer
Keep this recipe in your arsenal for a go-to low carb snack that everyone will love.

Low Carb Sausage Balls

Ingredients:
- 1 tube of Jimmy Dean raw ground sausage
- 2 cups of mild shredded cheese
- 2 eggs
- 4 oz. cream cheese softened (not pictured below)
Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Place all of the ingredients in a large mixing bowl.

Mix all ingredients together until combined well.

Scoop the mixture into two inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown.

For this recipe, I was able to make 20 sausage balls.
Low Carb Sausage Balls

Ingredients

1 tube of Jimmy Dean raw ground sausage

2 cups of mild shredded cheese

2 eggs

optional: 4 oz. cream cheese (softened)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Place all of the ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
Mix all ingredients together until combined well.
Scoop the mixture into two inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown.
For this recipe, I was able to make 20 sausage balls.
© Roscoe
December 28, 2025
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham: A Southern Favorite for Holidays and Beyond

When it comes to comforting southern meals that feel special without a ton of fuss, this Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham delivers every time.

Whether you’re feeding the family on Sunday after church or pulling together a holiday spread, this recipe brings that perfect balance of savory and sweet that’s hard to beat.

It uses just a few pantry staples and turns a store-bought pre-cooked ham into something that tastes like it came out of grandma’s kitchen.

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What Is Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham?

Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is a simple baked ham recipe made with a bone-in spiral ham, canned pineapple slices and juice, and brown sugar. That’s it.

These three ingredients do all the heavy lifting—no long prep, no complicated steps.

The sweet pineapple juice mixes with the brown sugar as it bakes, forming a sticky, caramelized coating that flavors every bite.

This easy ham with pineapple and brown sugar is ideal when you’re short on time but still want something that feels like a centerpiece.

When to Serve This Easy Holiday Ham Recipe

This ham is most popular around the holidays—Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, even New Year’s Day—but it works just as well for any special gathering or Sunday dinner.

It’s a great make-ahead option if you’re hosting guests, since it reheats beautifully. It also travels well, making it ideal if you’re taking a dish to a potluck or family get-together.

Where to Use Leftover Pineapple Glazed Ham

One of the best things about this southern-style pineapple ham recipe is the leftovers.

Slice it up for ham sandwiches the next day, dice it into a cheesy ham and potato casserole, or chop and toss it into breakfast omelets.

You can even make ham sliders with Hawaiian rolls, adding a little melted cheese for a quick meal.

The pineapple glaze keeps the meat flavorful and moist, so it doesn’t dry out when reheated.

Why This Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Recipe Works

If you’ve been searching for an easy baked ham recipe with pineapple, you’re not alone.

Many people want a recipe that looks and tastes impressive but doesn’t involve hours in the kitchen.

That’s exactly what this is. It uses a pre-cooked spiral ham, so your job is simply to warm it through while adding sweet, tangy flavor.

You don’t need any special equipment, and the ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store.

How to Serve Southern Pineapple Ham

You can slice and serve this right out of the oven alongside classic southern sides like mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, green beans, or cornbread.

Want to stretch your meal even further?

Serve this brown sugar pineapple ham with rice and roasted veggies for a weeknight dinner.

It’s also perfect for a brunch table with eggs, biscuits, and fruit.

Who Loves This Southern Baked Ham Recipe

This recipe is great for busy home cooks, especially folks cooking for a family or holiday crowd.

It’s budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and makes enough to feed a small army.

If you’re hosting guests from out of town or feeding picky eaters, this easy southern baked ham with pineapple is a safe bet.

Kids love the sweetness, and adults appreciate the flavor and tenderness.

An Easy Recipe That Stands Out

This brown sugar pineapple ham recipe proves that simple ingredients and easy prep can still lead to big flavor.

Whether you’re planning your Easter ham or just need a no-fail meal that brings everyone to the table, this dish belongs in your regular rotation.

If you’re looking for the best spiral ham recipe with pineapple and brown sugar, this one hits the mark.

Make it once and it just might become your new holiday tradition.

Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 1.5 hours
Servings 6-8

Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in spiral ham (pre-cooked)
- 1 can pineapple slices (with juice)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Directions:

Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Remove the packaging from the pre-cooked ham and place it in a oven safe casserole dish.

Open the can of pineapple slices and place the slices between the slices of ham.

Pour the juice from the can over it.

Rub the brown sugar evenly over the pineapple slices and ham. You can adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your sweetness preference.

Cover the ham with aluminum foil and let it cook for 1.5 hours in the oven. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the ham. You want the ham to heat through and the flavors to meld.

Check the ham periodically. You can baste it with the juices that collect in the dish to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.

If your ham came with a glaze package, you could mix this with a few tablespoons of the pineapple juice, mix it and glaze the ham with it.

Slice the ham and serve it with the pineapple slices.

Note: Since the ham is already cooked, the goal is to heat it through and infuse it with the flavors of pineapple and brown sugar. The slow cooker helps to achieve this while keeping the ham moist and tender.

Enjoy your flavorful slow cooker pineapple brown sugar ham!

Remember that cooking times may vary based on the specifics of your slow cooker and the ham’s size, so adjust accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions for Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

Can I use canned pineapple for brown sugar ham glaze?
Yes, canned pineapple works perfectly for this recipe. Use both the slices and the juice to add natural sweetness and moisture to the ham.

How long do you bake a pre-cooked spiral ham with pineapple and brown sugar?
Bake at 350°F for about 1.5 hours, or until the ham is heated through. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your ham, so check periodically.

What’s the best way to keep a spiral ham moist while baking?
Cover the ham tightly with foil and baste it with the juices from the pan during baking. The pineapple juice helps keep the ham tender and flavorful.

Can I make brown sugar pineapple ham in a slow cooker instead of the oven?
Yes, you can. Place the ham in the slow cooker, add pineapple slices and juice, sprinkle with brown sugar, and cook on low for 4–5 hours until warmed through.

What sides go best with southern baked ham with pineapple glaze?
Classic southern sides like mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, green beans, collard greens, sweet potatoes, and cornbread are perfect pairings.

How do I store leftover pineapple glazed ham?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the ham for up to 2 months for longer storage.

Can I use this brown sugar ham recipe for Easter or Christmas dinner?
Absolutely. This easy pineapple ham is a popular choice for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other holiday meals because it’s simple and crowd-pleasing.

Is this pineapple ham recipe good for ham sandwiches the next day?
Yes, the leftovers are great for sandwiches, sliders, or even chopped into eggs, casseroles, or soups. The pineapple flavor makes it extra tasty.

Do I need to use a glaze packet that comes with the ham?
No, you don’t have to. This recipe is flavorful on its own, but if your ham comes with a glaze, you can mix it with pineapple juice for extra sweetness.

What type of ham is best for brown sugar and pineapple baked ham?
A bone-in spiral ham works best because it’s pre-sliced, easy to serve, and soaks up the brown sugar pineapple glaze really well during baking.
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

Ingredients

1 bone-in spiral ham (pre-cooked)

1 can pineapple slices (with juice)

1/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions

Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Remove the packaging from the pre-cooked ham and place it in a oven safe casserole dish.
Open the can of pineapple slices and place the slices between the slices of ham. Then pour the juice from the can over it.
Rub the brown sugar evenly over the pineapple slices and ham. You can adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your sweetness preference.
Cover the ham with aluminum foil and let it cook for 1.5 hours in the oven. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the ham. You want the ham to heat through and the flavors to meld.
Check the ham periodically. You can baste it with the juices that collect in the dish to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
If your ham came with a glaze package, you could mix this with a few tablespoons of the pineapple juice, mix it and glaze the ham with it.
Slice the ham and serve it with the pineapple slices.
© Roscoe
September 3, 2024
Baked Swedish Meatballs
Ingredients:

Meatballs:
- ½ lb ground beef
- ½ lb ground pork
- 1 tablespoon dry onion, minced
- 1 egg
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- 2 tablespoons parsley
Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup flour
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with foil.

Mix all meatball ingredients in a large bowl until well combined.

Roll mixture into balls and place on baking sheet.

Bake 30-40 minutes until cooked through.

Prepare the sauce by melting butter in a skillet over medium high heat.

Whisk in flour and allow to brown.

Add in broth and Worcestershire sauce then cream.

Reduce heat slightly and allow sauce to thicken.

Season to taste.

Add meatballs to skillet and coat with sauce.

Garnish with parsley, serve, and enjoy!
May 25, 2024
Sticky Oven Baked Baby Back Ribs
Sticky Oven Baked Baby Back Ribs

Ingredients:
- 1 slap baby back ribs
- ½ cup yellow mustard
- 2 tsp season salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp white pepper
- 1 cup Brown sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 cup Bbq sauce, optional
Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 245.

Clean ribs, remove membrane on back, should be smooth in the back.

Pat ribs dry.

Add mustard to both sides to help tenderize the meat, it will not taste like mustard.

Add garlic powder, onion powder, both peppers and paprika (do not rub in).

Then top with season salt, again don’t rub it in.

Season both sides of the meat.

Wrap tightly in foil and cook for 2 hours.

After two hours, remove from the oven, carefully open the foil.

Add the brown sugar, honey, and butter.

Tent the foil so that it is not touching the meat.

Return to oven for an additional hour.

If you want to add BBQ sauce, add it on, turn up the temp to 425 and cook for 10 mins until its nice and sticky.

Notes:

Do not preseason for longer than 2 hours.

Bring the meat to room temperature before baking.

Do not rub in the seasonings (the salt will dry out the meat).
May 25, 2024
Maple Brown Sugar Candied Bacon
Bacon is a universally loved ingredient, adored for its robust flavor and delightful crisp texture.

But have you ever considered giving this breakfast staple a sweet makeover?

Candying, the process of coating or infusing food items with sugar or sweet syrup, introduces a brand new flavor profile to the bacon.

It’s like turning your bacon into a piece of candy, which might sound a bit odd, but the result is a unique delicacy that offers the best of both sweet and savory worlds.

The Magic of Four Ingredients

The preparation of Maple Brown Sugar Candied Bacon is interestingly simple, using just four key ingredients: bacon, maple syrup, brown sugar, and black pepper.

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in creating the perfect piece of candied bacon.

The bacon is, of course, the star of the show. It’s the canvas onto which the rest of the ingredients paint their flavors.

The choice of bacon can significantly influence the outcome of the dish. The thicker the cut, the better, as it will hold up well during the candying process.

Next comes the maple syrup. Maple syrup is a natural sweetener derived from the sap of the maple tree.

It lends a beautiful, subtle sweetness to the bacon, quite different from the sharp sweetness that common sugars provide.

Plus, it brings a hint of earthiness that complements the bacon’s savory flavor.

The brown sugar acts as another sweetening agent, but its role goes beyond just adding sweetness.

When exposed to heat, brown sugar caramelizes, creating a crispy, sugary crust on the bacon. This caramelization process gives candied bacon its characteristic crunch.

Finally, a sprinkle of black pepper rounds off the list of ingredients.

It might seem like a small addition, but this dash of spice provides a contrast that highlights the sweetness of the dish.

It’s like a pinch of salt on a caramel dessert – it seems counterintuitive, but it works to enhance the primary flavors.

From Bacon to Candied Bacon: The Transformation

When the four ingredients come together, they undergo a transformation in the oven.

The heat works its magic, caramelizing the sugars, crisping up the bacon, and melding the flavors together.

The result is a piece of bacon that’s still recognizably bacon, but with an added layer of sweet, crunchy goodness.

It’s a testament to the wonders of cooking – how a few simple ingredients can combine and transform into something surprisingly delightful.

Beyond the Breakfast Table

One might wonder where candied bacon fits in the culinary landscape.

Is it a breakfast item, a dessert, or something in between?

The beauty of Maple Brown Sugar Candied Bacon lies in its versatility. It can adapt and fit into many different food contexts.

As a snack, it’s an unexpected delight. The sweet-savory combo is addictive, offering a delicious alternative to common sweet or salty snacks.

In salads, candied bacon can replace regular bacon bits, contributing a sweet crunch that pairs well with fresh, crisp veggies.

And let’s not overlook its potential in desserts. Candied bacon can be an exciting addition to a range of sweet dishes, from cookies to cakes to ice creams.

It introduces a contrasting savory note that can balance the sweetness and add complexity.

Lastly, it’s worth considering as a garnish for cocktails. The richness of the candied bacon can complement the flavors in bourbon or whiskey-based drinks particularly well.

Wrapping Up

Exploring the world of food often leads to surprising discoveries.

The concept of Maple Brown Sugar Candied Bacon might seem strange at first, but when understood and appreciated, it presents an intriguing combination of flavors that can elevate your food experiences.

It demonstrates how a little creativity can transform a familiar ingredient into something new and exciting.

From the choice of ingredients to the cooking process, to the various ways it can be served, every aspect of this dish offers a chance to delve deeper into the world of culinary arts.

So, the next time you’re feeling adventurous in the kitchen, remember this intriguing fusion of sweet and savory – it might just become your new favorite.

Ingredients:
- ½ lbs. bacon
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp. brown sugar
- Dash of black pepper
Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and spray with nonstick

Cut the bacon strips in half and place on the baking sheet. Do not overlap them.

In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup, brown sugar and black pepper and mix until well combined.

Brush the mixture over the bacon on both sides.

Bake for 18-20 minutes in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What type of bacon should I use for Maple Brown Sugar Candied Bacon?

You should opt for thick-cut, high-quality bacon. The thickness will help it withstand the baking process without becoming overly crispy or burnt.

Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?

You can use white sugar, but brown sugar is preferable due to its molasses content, which caramelizes nicely and gives a richer flavor.

Can I use honey or other syrups instead of maple syrup?

You can use alternatives like honey or agave syrup. However, each sweetener will lend a slightly different flavor profile. Maple syrup is recommended for its distinct and natural sweetness.

Why add black pepper to a sweet dish?

A dash of black pepper adds a slight spicy kick which contrasts nicely with the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the candied bacon.

How can I serve Maple Brown Sugar Candied Bacon?

This candied bacon is highly versatile. You can serve it as a standalone appetizer, a topping on salads, a garnish on desserts, or even as a snack with cocktails.

How long can I store candied bacon?

You can store candied bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s best to reheat it in the oven before serving.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

While there’s no direct plant-based substitute for bacon that would give a similar result, you can experiment with ingredients like tempeh or coconut bacon for a vegetarian or vegan version. Do note that the texture and flavor will be quite different.

Can I prepare Maple Brown Sugar Candied Bacon in advance?

You can prepare it in advance. After it has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in the oven at a low temperature until it’s warm and crispy.

What should I do if my bacon isn’t getting crispy?

Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature. If the bacon still isn’t getting crispy, you can increase the heat slightly or leave it in the oven for a few extra minutes. Be careful to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Can I use this recipe with other meats?

You can use this recipe with other meats. Just remember that cooking times and temperatures may vary depending on the type and thickness of the meat. Always ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked before consuming.
December 14, 2023