Crispy Cranberry & Cheese Bites with Creamy Sauce

Ingredients

For the Bites:
▪️1 cup cooked and crumbled sausage (or shredded chicken)
▪️½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
▪️1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
▪️½ cup cream cheese, softened
▪️¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)
▪️1 cup breadcrumbs
▪️2 large eggs, beaten
▪️½ cup all-purpose flour

For the Sauce:
▪️2 tbsp unsalted butter
▪️2 tbsp all-purpose flour
▪️1 cup milk
▪️½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
▪️1 tsp Dijon mustard
▪️Salt and pepper to taste

 Instructions :

Step 1️⃣ Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix sausage (or chicken), dried cranberries, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, and pecans (if using). Form into small bite-sized balls.

Step 2️⃣ Coat the Bites:
Roll each ball in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs. Repeat for all bites.

Step 3️⃣ Cook the Bites:
Frying: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the bites for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Baking: Place on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 4️⃣ Prepare the Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Add cheddar cheese and Dijon mustard, stirring until melted. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5️⃣ Serve: Drizzle the creamy sauce over the bites or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 (about 12 bites)
Calories: ~280 kcal per serving

Enjoy