Hello food lovers! If you’re looking for a snack or appetizer that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, you’ve come to the right place. These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are packed with flavor, featuring juicy sausage, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice from Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. Perfect for game days, parties, or even a cozy family gathering, this easy recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s get started!
Introduction
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a modern twist on the classic sausage ball recipe. By incorporating cream cheese and Rotel, you get an incredibly moist and flavorful bite every time. The balance of creamy, savory, and spicy flavors makes these sausage balls stand out. Whether you serve them with a variety of dipping sauces or enjoy them as-is, they’re always a hit. This versatile dish is simple to prepare, takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, and yields enough to feed a crowd.
Ingredients
To prepare these irresistible Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground sausage (choose hot or mild based on your spice preference)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained well
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups Bisquick or another baking mix
These ingredients come together to create the perfect combination of textures and flavors. You can adjust the spice level by opting for mild sausage or low-heat Rotel if desired.
How to Make Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious sausage balls:
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Prepare the Sausage Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the raw ground sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel, shredded cheddar cheese, and Bisquick. Mix thoroughly using a sturdy spoon or your hands until the ingredients are evenly incorporated. The mixture will be sticky but should hold together when rolled.
Shape the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Try to keep the size consistent to ensure even cooking. Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 160°F (71°C) for fully cooked sausage.
Serve Warm: Serve the sausage balls warm as a snack or appetizer. Pair them with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or even a creamy sriracha mayo for an added flavor boost.
Store Leftovers: If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to enjoy the same delicious taste and texture.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls
Use high-quality sausage for the best flavor. You can experiment with flavored sausage, like maple or Italian, to create a unique twist.
Ensure the cream cheese is softened to make mixing easier and to achieve a smooth, cohesive texture.
Drain the Rotel thoroughly to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet. A strainer or paper towel can help remove excess moisture.
If you find the mixture too sticky to roll, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for a better melt and more robust flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
Cooking Tips
Cook the sausage balls on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet for even cooking and to allow excess grease to drip off.
For an extra crispy exterior, broil the sausage balls for the last 2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Double the recipe if you’re feeding a large group. These sausage balls freeze well, so you can prepare a batch in advance and bake them fresh when needed.
If you don’t have Bisquick, you can make your own by combining 1 cup of flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 tablespoon of butter or shortening.
Serving Suggestions
These sausage balls are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes and dipping sauces. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience:
- Arrange the sausage balls on a platter with small bowls of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or marinara for variety.
- Serve them alongside a charcuterie board featuring crackers, cheese cubes, and pickles for an impressive appetizer spread.
- For a breakfast twist, pair the sausage balls with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a hearty morning meal.
- Add a touch of garnish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the sausage balls for a pop of color.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an overview of the nutritional content for these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls (per ball, approximately 24 balls per batch):
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Potassium: 90mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 4%
- Vitamin C: 2%
- Calcium: 6%
- Iron: 3%
These sausage balls are a balanced snack option with a good mix of protein and flavor, making them a great addition to any occasion.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freeze: If you want to prepare these in advance, roll the mixture into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the balls to a zip-top bag or container and store them for up to 3 months.
Reheat: To reheat, place the sausage balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. For a quick option, microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these sausage balls without Rotel? Yes, you can omit the Rotel if desired. The sausage balls will still be delicious but will lack the spicy and tangy kick Rotel provides.
What if I don’t have Bisquick? You can substitute Bisquick with an equal amount of all-purpose flour combined with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and a tablespoon of melted butter or shortening.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Swap out cheddar for pepper jack, Colby, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the sausage balls, store them in the refrigerator or freezer, and bake them fresh when ready.
Related Recipes
If you love these sausage balls, you might also enjoy:
- Classic Sausage and Cheese Balls
- Spicy Jalapeño Poppers
- Bacon-Wrapped Smokies
- Cheddar-Stuffed Meatballs
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate recipe for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls! This quick and easy dish is perfect for any occasion, from game-day snacks to party appetizers. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a delicious treat that everyone will love. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to serve it with your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy every bite!