Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls bring together the bold flavors of sausage, cream cheese, and Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, creating a perfect appetizer or snack with a slight kick. These sausage balls are irresistibly cheesy and packed with flavor, thanks to a blend of garlic, onion powder, and shredded cheddar cheese. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, they make a fantastic choice for gatherings, game days, or holiday parties. Serve them warm with a dipping sauce like ranch or spicy mayo, and watch them disappear quickly!
Why You’ll Love These Sausage Balls:
Easy to Make: With only one bowl and basic ingredients, these sausage balls come together in no time, making them a great option for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From holiday parties to game-day spreads, these sausage balls are versatile enough for any event.
Bold Flavors: The combination of sausage, cream cheese, cheddar, and spicy Rotel gives these sausage balls an addictive flavor that everyone loves.
Freezer-Friendly: You can make a big batch, freeze some, and have them ready to bake whenever you need a quick snack.
Key Ingredients:
Sausage: A high-quality ground sausage adds richness and a little spice. Mild sausage works well for most, but if you love heat, consider a spicy or hot sausage.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is the key to making these sausage balls super creamy and moist. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Rotel Tomatoes and Green Chilies: The secret ingredient! This can of diced tomatoes and chilies gives these sausage balls their spicy kick and juicy texture. Drain them well to avoid extra liquid in the mixture.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings that familiar, gooey cheesiness. Freshly shredded cheese melts better, but pre-shredded works if you’re short on time.
Biscuit Baking Mix (e.g., Bisquick): The baking mix gives structure to the sausage balls and a hint of buttery flavor. Bisquick is classic, but any biscuit mix will do.
Seasonings
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These add depth without overpowering the sausage flavor.
Black Pepper: A touch of black pepper rounds out the flavor with a bit of warmth.
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking with a golden-brown exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Grease or Line the Sheet: Lightly grease a baking sheet with oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the following:
1 pound ground sausage
8 ounces softened cream cheese
1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups biscuit baking mix (like Bisquick)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Mix Well: Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until all ingredients are fully combined, ensuring cheese and seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Shape the Sausage Balls
Form the Balls: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands, aiming for uniform size for even cooking.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart to allow for heat circulation.
Step 5: Bake the Sausage Balls
Bake in the Oven: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. To confirm doneness, check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) with a meat thermometer.
Step 6: Cool and Garnish
Cool Slightly: Allow the sausage balls to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up.
Garnish: Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.
Step 7: Serve
Serve Warm: Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy warm. Pair with a dipping sauce like ranch, spicy mayo, or honey mustard for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a versatile appetizer that pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are a few ideas to make your spread even more appealing:
Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or a creamy sriracha mayo for an extra flavor boost.
Veggie Platter: Add a colorful platter of celery, carrot sticks, and bell peppers for a fresh contrast to the savory sausage balls.
Bread Basket: Pair with a side of mini rolls or crostini to soak up the juicy, cheesy flavors of the sausage balls.
For a larger party, serve these alongside classic appetizers like buffalo wings, mozzarella sticks, or a cheese platter to create a complete and varied spread.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips:
These sausage balls are great for making ahead, storing, and even freezing. Here’s how to keep them fresh and ready for any occasion:
Refrigerator: Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Freezer: Make a big batch and freeze any uncooked sausage balls for later. Arrange the balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.
To Bake from Frozen: Place the frozen sausage balls on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
Delicious Variations:
Looking to customize your sausage balls? Here are some fun and tasty ways to make this recipe your own:
Spicy Sausage Balls: Use hot sausage and add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the mix for extra heat.
Southwestern Twist: Substitute Mexican blend cheese for cheddar and add a teaspoon of cumin or chili powder to bring out the southwestern flavors.
Herb & Cheese Sausage Balls: Try adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or rosemary for a more savory flavor profile. You can also swap in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
Bacon Cheddar Sausage Balls: Stir in some crumbled cooked bacon for a delicious smoky flavor that pairs well with the cheddar and sausage.
Conclusion:
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a tasty, easy-to-make appetizer that’s packed with cheesy goodness and a touch of spice from the Rotel tomatoes and chilies. Whether you’re hosting a big game-day party or looking for a make-ahead snack, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The savory sausage, creamy cheese, and biscuit mix come together perfectly for a comforting bite-size treat that everyone will love. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, these sausage balls are sure to disappear quickly, so you might want to make a double batch!
Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite of these sausage balls!
