Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the savory goodness of sausage, the creamy richness of cream cheese, and the zesty kick of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies. These bite-sized delights are quick to prepare, making them perfect for parties, game day, or anytime you need a flavorful snack!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these sausage balls in no time.
- Crowd Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, they’re always a hit on the snack table.
- Versatile: Mild or spicy sausage? Your choice! Add your own twist with dipping sauces.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep them in advance and bake when needed.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage (hot or mild, based on 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
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the raw sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel, shredded cheddar cheese, and Bisquick.
- Mix thoroughly using a spoon or your hands. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent flavor.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for even cooking.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the sausage balls warm. Pair them with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or marinara sauce for added flavor.
Step 6: Store Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Spoon or your hands for mixing
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or even a quick breakfast bite. Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of color.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Freezing: You can freeze the sausage balls before or after baking. To freeze unbaked, place them on a tray in the freezer until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Use hot sausage and add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Cheesy Boost: Mix in a different cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella for added flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free baking mix in place of Bisquick.
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute sausage with plant-based alternatives and adjust seasoning to taste.
Helpful Notes and Tips
- Draining Rotel: Be sure to drain the Rotel well to avoid a soggy mixture.
- Softened Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing for easier blending.
- Uniform Balls: Use a cookie scoop to make evenly sized sausage balls for consistent cooking.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Rachael Ray: When working with ground sausage, keep your hands slightly damp to prevent sticking while rolling.
- Gordon Ramsay: Use high-quality cheddar for a more robust cheese flavor.
- Ina Garten: Sprinkle a touch of smoked paprika on top before baking for extra depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Pre-cooked sausage won’t bind as well, but you can use it by adding an extra tablespoon of cream cheese for moisture.
2. Can I make these sausage balls in advance?
Yes! Mix and roll the balls up to 24 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
3. How do I keep sausage balls warm for serving?
Place them in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting for serving at parties.
4. Can I substitute cream cheese with another ingredient?
You can use ricotta or mascarpone for a similar creamy texture, but the flavor will vary slightly.
5. What if I don’t have Bisquick?
You can make a homemade substitute by mixing 1 ½ cups of flour, 2 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are savory, cheesy, and irresistibly good. Perfect for any occasion, they’re a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!
