How To Make 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Sausage Balls (So Easy!)
A Story from My Kitchen to Yours
Last winter, I found myself in a cooking rut working long hours, managing a keto lifestyle, and constantly searching for fast, low-carb comfort food. One evening, after another failed attempt at dinner, I glanced at three ingredients on my counter: sausage, shredded cheese, and almond flour. With an air fryer humming nearby, something clicked. That night, the first batch of 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Sausage Balls came to life crispy outside, cheesy inside, and keto-perfection. That simple recipe didn’t just save dinner; it became my go-to for parties, snacks, and meal prep.

If you’re like me chasing flavor without the carbs, loving shortcuts but hating bland food this recipe is for you. It builds on the same magic behind basic sausage dishes like these air fryer sausages, but with a cheesy, satisfying twist.
Looking for inspiration? Try Keto Low Carb Garlic Bread Wraps for the perfect side.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Sausage Balls
Keto-Friendly and Low-Carb Heaven
When following a keto lifestyle, quick snack options can be limited. These 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Sausage Balls – Easy Keto Recipe offer the ideal balance protein-rich sausage, gooey melted cheese, and low-carb almond flour keep you in ketosis without missing flavor.
Quick and Convenient
You only need 20 minutes from prep to plate. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, quick breakfasts, or even party appetizers. No fancy tools or long prep lists just one bowl, one air fryer, and three simple ingredients.
Discover great ideas like Air Fryer Cheesy Garlic Bread with Tortillas to pair with your sausage balls.

3 Ingredient Air Fryer Sausage Balls
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground sausage breakfast or Italian; sugar-free for keto
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or preferred variety
- 1/3 cup almond flour fine blanched almond flour
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground sausage, shredded cheese, and almond flour until well mixed.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands or a scoop.
- Place sausage balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Notes
Ingredients: Simple, Powerful, and Keto

Ingredient 1: Ground Sausage
Choose quality breakfast sausage or spicy Italian sausage. For a more keto-compliant option, use sausage without added sugar or fillers.
Ingredient 2: Shredded Cheese
Cheddar is classic, but you can experiment with Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or Mozzarella. The cheese binds everything while adding that melty, golden flavor.
Ingredient 3: Almond Flour
This is the keto-friendly alternative to breadcrumbs. It helps hold the sausage balls together while adding texture without carbs.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Sausage Balls – Easy Keto Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F.
- In a bowl, mix 1 lb ground sausage, 1 cup shredded cheese, and 1/3 cup almond flour until combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place in the air fryer basket with space in between.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes or until browned and fully cooked.
Pro Tip
Don’t overcrowd the basket. Air circulation is key to getting that golden, crispy exterior!
Variations You Can Try
Add Some Spice
Throw in some red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for a little heat.
Try Different Cheeses
Experiment with gouda or Swiss for a unique flavor twist while keeping the dish keto and low-carb.
Make It Breakfast Ready
Add chopped green onions and scrambled eggs into the mix for a breakfast sausage ball variation.
Check out Air Fryer Breakfast Sausage for another perfect low-carb breakfast recipe.
Meal Prep Tips and Storage
Batch Cooking for the Week
Make a double batch and freeze half. These sausage balls freeze beautifully and can be reheated in the air fryer within minutes.
Storage Guidelines
- Fridge: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Up to 3 months.
- Reheat: 350°F in the air fryer for 5 minutes.
Don’t miss our Healthy Air Fryer Dinners if you’re meal prepping low-carb meals.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for Keto Parties
Serve with sugar-free mustard, creamy ranch, or spicy mayo as dips. It’s the ultimate keto party snack that guests will fight over.
Side Dish Options
Pair with roasted low-carb veggies or keto bread alternatives like Keto Stuffed Zucchini Boats in Air Fryer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Overcook
These cook quickly overcooking dries them out. Stick to 10–12 minutes and check at the 10-minute mark.
Use the Right Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that affect texture. Shred fresh cheese if possible.
Season Thoughtfully
Although sausage is already seasoned, adding garlic powder or onion powder can enhance flavor without carbs.
Conclusion: The Best 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Sausage Balls You’ll Ever Try
These 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Sausage Balls – Easy Keto Recipe are everything a low-carb eater dreams of: crispy, juicy, cheesy, and lightning-fast to prepare. Whether you’re making snacks, prepping meals, or feeding a crowd, this dish delivers on flavor and simplicity.
Learn more about other keto-friendly meat options with Keto Air Fryer Beef Meatballs.
FAQs About 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Sausage Balls – Easy Keto Recipe
Can I make these sausage balls without almond flour?
Yes! You can use coconut flour, but reduce the amount by half. Almond flour gives the best texture, though.
Are these sausage balls gluten-free?
Absolutely. All three ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a perfect option for both keto and gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, they’re ideal for make-ahead meals. Store raw sausage balls in the fridge up to 24 hours before cooking.
What dipping sauces go best with these sausage balls?
Try keto-friendly options like sugar-free BBQ sauce, spicy mayo, or ranch dressing.
Can I bake them instead of using an air fryer?
Yes. Bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through.
What’s the best sausage to use?
Mild or spicy breakfast sausage works best. Avoid sweetened or maple-flavored ones to stay keto-friendly.
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