Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: A Crowd-Pleasing Delight

Introduction

There’s something uniquely satisfying about a recipe that marries spicy, creamy, and cheesy flavors in a bite-sized package. When I first tried making Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, I knew I had stumbled upon a winner. These delightful morsels have since become a staple at family gatherings, game days, and even casual weeknight dinners. My family adores them, and they often disappear faster than I can serve them. The combination of hot sausage, cream cheese, and the zesty kick from Rotel makes them incredibly addictive. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers or a main dish, these sausage balls are sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 lb hot sausage, uncooked
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
• 1¾ cups Bisquick baking mix
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel. Use your hands or a spatula to mix until well combined.
3. Add Bisquick and Cheese: Next, add the Bisquick baking mix and shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Shape the Balls: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
5. Bake: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve: Serve warm and enjoy the delicious flavors!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 40 sausage balls
• Calories: 125 kcal per ball
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Dietary Fiber: 0 g
• Sugars: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm: Serve the sausage balls warm for the best flavor and texture.
• Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as:
• Ranch dressing
• BBQ sauce
• Hot sauce
• Honey mustard
• As Appetizers: Serve on toothpicks for easy eating at parties.
• As Part of a Meal: Pair with a salad or vegetable side for a balanced meal.

Additional Tips

1. Sausage Choice: Use a hot sausage for a spicy kick, but you can opt for mild sausage if you prefer less heat.
2. Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure easy mixing and a smooth texture.
3. Rotel Variations: Experiment with different flavors of Rotel, such as those with lime and cilantro, to add a unique twist.
4. Freezing: You can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
5. Cooking in Batches: If you’re making a large batch, consider baking in multiple batches to ensure even cooking and browning.

Recipe Variations

• Cheese Options: Substitute the cheddar cheese with pepper jack for an extra spicy flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Use a plant-based sausage alternative and ensure the cream cheese is dairy-free for a vegetarian option.
• Add Veggies: Mix in some finely chopped green onions or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• Game Day: Serve with chips and salsa for a complete game day spread.
• Buffet Style: Include alongside other appetizers like stuffed jalapeños, mini quiches, and cheese platters for a buffet-style gathering.
• Picnics: Pack the sausage balls for a picnic as they are easy to transport and delicious at room temperature.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: To freeze, shape the sausage balls and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: To cook frozen sausage balls, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
• Storage: Store leftover cooked sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

• Yes, you can substitute the hot sausage with ground turkey or chicken, but adjust the seasoning as needed.

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

• Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the balls a day in advance and then bake them when ready to serve.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for best results.

1. Can I bake them without the cream cheese?

• While you can, the cream cheese adds moisture and richness, so it’s recommended for the best texture.

1. How can I adjust the spice level?

• Use mild sausage and a can of mild Rotel to reduce the heat.

1. Can I use homemade biscuit mix instead of Bisquick?

• Yes, homemade biscuit mix can be used in place of Bisquick.

1. What dipping sauces pair well?

• Popular options include ranch, BBQ sauce, and spicy mustard.

1. Can these be served cold?

• They are best served warm, but can be eaten cold as well.

1. Is there a vegetarian version?

• Yes, use plant-based sausage and dairy-free cream cheese for a vegetarian option.

1. How long do they take to cook from frozen?

• Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes.

Conclusion

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect addition to any gathering, bringing together delicious flavors and an irresistible cheesy texture. They are easy to make and even easier to devour, making them a go-to recipe for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night at home. With their spicy kick and creamy goodness, these sausage balls will undoubtedly become a family favorite, just as they have in my household. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a fun snack, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!

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