Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Get ready to wow your guests with these addictive, bite-sized treats that bring a burst of flavor to any gathering. Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect blend of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a tangy kick from Rotel tomatoes and green chilies. They’re the ultimate party appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Versatile
These little bites work great as an appetizer, a game-day snack, or even as a fun addition to brunch spreads.
Budget-Friendly
Using everyday ingredients, you can create a gourmet snack without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy
With minimal prep and a simple bake, these sausage balls are ready in no time, making them perfect for impromptu gatherings.
Customizable
Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite herbs to make them uniquely yours.
Crowd-Pleasing
Their irresistible combination of savory, creamy, and tangy flavors makes them a hit with every crowd.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Ground Sausage: The star of the show, choose your favorite style—mild or spicy.
Cream Cheese: Softened to blend smoothly with the sausage for a rich, creamy texture.
Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies: Brings a zesty, vibrant kick to each bite.
Baking Mix: Helps bind the ingredients together and creates a perfect outer layer.
Optional Add-Ins: Think chopped parsley or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar for extra flavor.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to the temperature specified in your recipe card. A properly heated oven is key to achieving a golden, crispy finish.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, and Rotel until well combined. Gently stir in your baking mix (and any optional add-ins) until the mixture forms a consistent dough.
Shape the Balls
Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even baking.
Bake to Perfection
Place the sausage balls on a greased baking sheet, leaving a little space between each. Bake until they are golden brown and cooked through, usually about 20 minutes. Turn them halfway through baking for an even crisp.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12-15 sausage balls
Calories per serving: 120
(Nutrition values may vary based on added ingredients.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
How to Serve Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
These sausage balls are perfect on their own or paired with a tangy dipping sauce like spicy mustard or a creamy ranch. They also shine as part of a party platter alongside other bite-sized appetizers.
Additional Tips
- Keep It Chilled: For easier shaping, chill the mixture for about 15 minutes before forming the balls.
- Uniform Size: Using a small cookie scoop can help achieve consistent sizes for even cooking.
- Extra Flavor: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce or extra spices if you like an extra kick.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm straight from the oven for the best texture, or reheat gently if making ahead.
FAQ’s
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead and refrigerate it. Shape the balls just before baking, or bake and then reheat gently before serving.
2. What type of sausage works best?
Both mild and spicy ground sausage work well—choose based on your preferred level of heat.
3. Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cream cheeses or even a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor.
4. How do I prevent the sausage balls from falling apart?
Make sure to mix in the baking mix thoroughly to bind the ingredients together.
5. Can I freeze these sausage balls?
Yes, they freeze well. Shape and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven before serving.
6. What dipping sauce pairs well with them?
Try a spicy mustard, ranch dressing, or even a tangy barbecue sauce for a perfect pairing.
7. Can I make them without Rotel?
For a different flavor twist, substitute with another diced tomato and chili mix, but the signature kick may vary.
8. How do I know when they’re done?
They should be golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch. Cutting one open should reveal no pinkness inside.
9. Can I add herbs to the mixture?
Yes, adding chopped parsley or cilantro can brighten up the flavor.
10. Is it necessary to use a baking mix?
The baking mix helps bind the ingredients, but you can experiment with other binders like breadcrumbs if desired.
Conclusion
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful blend of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a tangy twist that elevates any gathering. With their easy preparation and irresistible flavor, they’re destined to become a staple at your next party or family get-together. Enjoy every bite and watch them disappear in no time!
PrintRotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
A popular party appetizer that combines savory sausage, tangy cream cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes into bite-sized balls. Perfect for gatherings, these warm, cheesy treats are both indulgent and crowd-pleasing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground pork sausage (spicy or mild)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
– 2 cups biscuit mix (Bisquick or similar)
– Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, drained Rotel, and biscuit mix. Add garlic and onion powder if using.
3. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Form the mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage is fully cooked and the balls are golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For an extra kick, opt for spicy sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. These sausage balls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball (approx. 30g)
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
