Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Introduction

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls have become one of my favorite go-to appetizers, especially for family gatherings, parties, or holiday celebrations. The blend of spicy sausage, creamy cream cheese, and the tangy kick from the Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies creates a flavor-packed bite that everyone can’t stop raving about. Not only are these sausage balls easy to make, but they are also incredibly delicious, with a perfect balance of heat and richness.

The beauty of this recipe is how simple it is. I often prepare these sausage balls when I want something quick, satisfying, and savory. The combination of the hot sausage with the smooth cream cheese and the addition of the Bisquick baking mix makes them perfectly fluffy on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior once baked. The best part is they can be served at any temperature — whether fresh out of the oven or as a leftover snack.

Every time I make them, my family eagerly anticipates their arrival. They’re a hit for kids and adults alike. My kids especially love the cheesy texture, and they enjoy dipping them in ketchup or ranch dressing. When I served these for a recent get-together, the plate was empty within minutes. I knew I had to share the recipe because these sausage balls deserve a spot in every home kitchen.

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 the Oven:
   Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the oven is hot and ready to bake the sausage balls to a perfect golden brown.
2. Mix the Sausage Mixture:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel. Stir these ingredients together until the mixture is well-blended and smooth.
3. Add Bisquick and Cheese:
   Add the Bisquick baking mix and shredded cheddar cheese to the sausage mixture. Stir well to ensure the ingredients are fully combined. The Bisquick helps to bind the mixture together, while the cheese gives it a rich, cheesy flavor.
4. Shape the Balls:
   Use your hands to shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
5. Bake:
   Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they’re crispy on the outside, and a thermometer inserted into the center reads 165°F.
6. Serve:
   Once baked, remove the sausage balls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve warm and enjoy! You can serve them with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, ketchup, or even hot sauce for an extra kick.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, makes 40 sausage balls)

• Serving Size: 1 sausage ball
• Calories: 125 kcal
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Preparation Time

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

How to Serve

• As an Appetizer: Serve the sausage balls as a warm, savory appetizer for parties, game day, or holiday meals. They pair perfectly with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or spicy mustard.
• With a Side Salad: These sausage balls can be enjoyed as part of a main dish, especially when served with a light side salad or roasted vegetables for a more filling meal.
• For a Snack: Keep some sausage balls in the fridge for a quick snack. They reheat well in the microwave or oven.
• For Breakfast: Pair with scrambled eggs or a breakfast casserole for a hearty breakfast.
• Make Ahead for Meal Prep: These sausage balls make excellent meal prep snacks. You can bake them ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and reheat them when you’re ready to enjoy.

Additional Tips

1. Use Regular or Mild Sausage: If you prefer a less spicy version, you can use regular or mild sausage instead of the hot sausage. The cream cheese and Rotel will still add flavor, but it won’t be as spicy.
2. Try Different Cheese Varieties: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
3. Make Smaller Balls for Party Appetizers: If you’re serving these at a party or get-together, you can make the sausage balls smaller, around 1/2-inch in diameter, for bite-sized portions.
4. Use a Cookie Scoop: To keep the sausage balls uniform in size, use a small cookie scoop. It makes the process faster and ensures that all the balls cook evenly.
5. Make Them Ahead: Prepare and form the sausage balls in advance, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them and bake from frozen.

Recipe Variations

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors. Gouda, cream cheese, or even blue cheese would be great substitutes for cheddar.
• Add Herbs and Spices: If you love extra flavor, feel free to add seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or even crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Use a Gluten-Free Bisquick: For those who are gluten-intolerant, use a gluten-free Bisquick alternative. It works just as well in the recipe.
• Add Vegetables: Add finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños to the sausage mixture for extra flavor and texture.
• Make Them Sweet: For a sweet twist, try adding a tablespoon of maple syrup to the sausage mixture, which will complement the savory flavors nicely.

Serving Suggestions

• With Ranch Dressing or BBQ Sauce: Serve these sausage balls with a side of ranch dressing or barbecue sauce for dipping. The creamy, tangy sauces balance the spicy sausage perfectly.
• With Sautéed Greens: Pair the sausage balls with sautéed spinach or kale for a nutritious side that complements the rich and savory flavor of the sausage balls.
• Alongside a Hearty Soup or Stew: Serve these sausage balls with a bowl of hearty soup or stew, such as potato leek soup or a rich tomato bisque, for a comforting meal.
• In a Breakfast Wrap: For a portable meal, wrap sausage balls in a tortilla with scrambled eggs, cheese, and avocado for a breakfast burrito.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until they are warm and crisp again.
• Freezing: These sausage balls freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the sausage balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the oven for 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C) when you’re ready to serve.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the sausage balls and freeze them uncooked. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use mild sausage instead of hot sausage?
   Yes, if you prefer a less spicy version, feel free to substitute with mild or regular sausage.
2. Can I freeze the sausage balls before baking?
   Yes, you can freeze the uncooked sausage balls and bake them later. Just add a few extra minutes to the cook time when baking from frozen.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the sausage balls in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can use other types of cheese such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or even cream cheese for a creamier texture.
5. Can I add vegetables to the sausage balls?
   Yes, finely chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños can be added to the sausage mixture for extra flavor.
6. Can I use homemade Bisquick?
   Yes, if you prefer, you can make your own Bisquick-style mix and use it in place of store-bought Bisquick.
7. How do I know when the sausage balls are done?
   The sausage balls should be golden brown on the outside, and a thermometer inserted into the center should read 165°F to ensure they are fully cooked.
8. Can I serve these with a side salad?
   Absolutely! A light side salad with greens like arugula or spinach pairs perfectly with these rich sausage balls.
9. How can I make these spicier?
   Add some crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños to the sausage mixture for an extra spicy kick.
10. What’s the best dipping sauce for sausage balls?
    Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce are all excellent dipping options for these savory sausage balls.

Conclusion

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a savory, flavorful treat that is perfect for any occasion. With their perfect balance of spices, cheese, and sausage, they make an excellent appetizer, snack, or side dish. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. The best part is how versatile they are, and they’re incredibly easy to make. Try them today, and enjoy the perfect blend of flavors in every bite!

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