Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delicious and easy appetizer perfect for any gathering or game day. These bite-sized treats combine ground sausage, cream cheese, Rotel tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and a biscuit baking mix for a savory snack that’s sure to please. Let’s dive into this simple and tasty recipe step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Mixture
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, shredded cheddar cheese, biscuit baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined. You can use your hands or a sturdy spoon to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Form the Sausage Balls
- Shape Balls:
- Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 4: Bake the Sausage Balls
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is recommended for the sausage.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before transferring to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions, if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Sausage: You can use any type of ground sausage you prefer, such as spicy, mild, or Italian.
- Cheese: For extra flavor, try using a mix of cheddar and other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack.
- Draining Rotel: Make sure to drain the Rotel tomatoes and green chilies well to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
Variations
Spicy Sausage Balls
- Add Heat:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture for an extra kick.
Herb Sausage Balls
- Add Herbs:
- Mix in 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme for added flavor.
Gluten-Free Sausage Balls
- Use Gluten-Free Mix:
- Substitute the biscuit baking mix with a gluten-free baking mix to make this recipe gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
With Dips
- Serve with Dips:
- Pair these sausage balls with a variety of dips such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara sauce.
As an Appetizer
- Perfect for Parties:
- Serve these sausage balls as a party appetizer or finger food at any gathering or game day event.
With Beverages
- With Beverages:
- Enjoy with cold beer, sparkling water, or your favorite soda.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the sausage balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze sausage balls? A: Yes, you can freeze uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: What if I don’t have biscuit baking mix? A: If you don’t have biscuit baking mix, you can make your own by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup of cold butter, cut into small pieces.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delicious and easy appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With their savory flavors and simple preparation, these sausage balls are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your family and friends!
