Description
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect bite-sized snack to bring bold flavor to any gathering. Combining the spicy kick of sausage, the creamy richness of cream cheese, and the tangy twist of Rotel, these sausage balls deliver an irresistible combination of tastes and textures. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, game day event, or casual brunch, this recipe ensures you’ll impress your guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground sausage (mild, spicy, or your preference)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups Bisquick mix (or any pancake/baking mix)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Optional: ranch dressing or hot sauce for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, use your hands or a sturdy spatula to combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel. Mix until evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the Bisquick mix, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to the sausage mixture. Stir or knead until a uniform dough forms.
Step 4: Shape the Sausage Balls
Scoop out approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture and place the sausage balls about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before transferring them to a serving platter. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or hot sauce.
Notes
- Draining Rotel:
Ensure the Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies are thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture in the mixture. - Room Temperature Cream Cheese:
Using softened cream cheese helps it blend evenly with the sausage and other ingredients. - Cheese Options:
While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier kick or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. - Mixing:
Use your hands for even mixing, as it ensures all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. - Scooping:
A small cookie scoop helps create evenly sized sausage balls for uniform cooking. - Non-Stick Surface:
Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 sausage balls
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, sausage appetizers, party snacks, easy appetizers