Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delicious and crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the savory flavors of sausage, the creamy richness of cream cheese, and the zesty kick of Rotel. These bite-sized delights are perfect for parties, game day, or even as a hearty snack. With a golden-brown exterior and a soft, cheesy interior, these sausage balls are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps.
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) ground sausage (mild, spicy, or breakfast sausage, as preferred)
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, based on your preference)
1½ cups Bisquick baking mix (or any pancake mix alternative)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage and softened cream cheese. Use your hands or a sturdy spatula to mix thoroughly until well blended.
Step 3: Add the drained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies to the sausage mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the zesty flavors.
Step 4: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
Step 5: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each ball for even cooking.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. To ensure they’re done, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before transferring to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a touch of color, if desired.
Variations:
Spicy Kick: Use hot sausage and add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Cheese Lovers: Swap cheddar for a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
Low-Carb Option: Replace the Bisquick with almond flour for a keto-friendly version.
Vegetarian Twist: Use plant-based sausage and vegan cream cheese to cater to vegetarian guests.
Cooking Note:
Ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to make the blending process smoother. You can leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
Drain the Rotel tomatoes thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the mixture.
Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; this allows the sausage balls to cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
Serving Suggestions:
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are versatile and pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Serve them with:
Ranch dressing
Spicy sriracha mayo
Honey mustard
Chipotle aioli
They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board or appetizer spread.
Tips:
For uniform sausage balls, use a cookie scoop or weigh each ball to ensure consistency.
Make a double batch and freeze extras. They can be reheated in the oven or air fryer for a quick snack.
Experiment with different sausage flavors to customize the taste to your liking.
If you’re short on time, prepare the mixture the night before and refrigerate. Roll and bake them fresh the next day.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 190
Protein: 9g
Sodium: 400mg
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 15g
FAQs:
Q: Can I freeze Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?
A: Yes, you can freeze them either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, place the formed sausage balls on a tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, cook them directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time. If freezing after baking, reheat them in an oven or air fryer.
Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Absolutely! You can use any type of ground sausage, including turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or spicy Italian sausage. Adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Q: How do I prevent the sausage balls from being too dry?
A: Ensure you don’t overbake them, as this can cause dryness. Adding the cream cheese helps keep them moist and tender.
Q: What can I use instead of Bisquick?
A: If you don’t have Bisquick on hand, you can make your own by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp salt, and 1 tbsp cold butter.
Conclusion:
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the ultimate comfort food, blending savory, cheesy, and zesty flavors into a bite-sized treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a delicious snack, these sausage balls are a surefire hit. With endless variations and the convenience of make-ahead options, they’re a versatile recipe that deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy these delightful bites of flavor-packed goodness!
