Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a deliciously savory appetizer that combines sausage, cream cheese, and Rotel tomatoes for a cheesy, slightly spicy twist on classic sausage balls. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game day, or holiday gatherings. They’re easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (drained)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups Bisquick or self-rising flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage and softened cream cheese, using a spatula or your hands to mix until well combined.
- Add the drained Rotel, shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick (or self-rising flour), garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Continue mixing until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Form the Sausage Balls
- Scoop out the sausage mixture and roll it into 1- to 1 1/2-inch balls. Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Step 4: Bake the Sausage Balls
- Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the sausage balls warm, with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Cook Notes
- Rotel: Be sure to drain the Rotel well to prevent excess moisture in the sausage balls. You can also use mild or hot Rotel, depending on your heat preference.
- Bisquick Substitute: If you don’t have Bisquick, you can use 1 1/2 cups of self-rising flour.
- Cheese Options: Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can experiment with other types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for extra flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Sausage Balls: Use hot sausage and hot Rotel for an extra kick.
- Herb and Cheese Sausage Balls: Add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like parsley or thyme to the mixture for added flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick to make these sausage balls gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sausage balls, place them on the baking sheet, and refrigerate them for up to 1 day before baking. Bake them just before serving.
Can I freeze sausage balls?
Yes! Sausage balls freeze well. You can freeze them unbaked or baked:
- Unbaked: Freeze the sausage balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Baked: Allow the sausage balls to cool completely, then freeze. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
What can I serve with sausage balls?
Sausage balls are great on their own, but you can serve them with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. They also pair well with a simple side salad for a light meal.
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a flavorful, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With a creamy, cheesy texture and a slight kick from the Rotel, these sausage balls are easy to make and incredibly tasty. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a savory snack, these sausage balls are sure to be a hit!
