Nothing says comfort and celebration quite like a batch of warm, cheesy sausage balls fresh from the oven. This Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe combines spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes to create irresistible bite-sized bites perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you crave a crowd-pleasing snack. Each morsel bursts with flavor and melts in your mouth, making these sausage balls a beloved classic you’ll reach for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; just a few essential ingredients come together effortlessly to deliver amazing taste and texture. Every component plays a specific role, from the spicy kick of the sausage to the creamy richness of the cream cheese, balanced by the subtle heat and moisture from Rotel and the satisfying structure the Bisquick provides.
- 1 lb hot sausage: Use fresh, uncooked sausage for bold, juicy flavor and just the right amount of spice.
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: Adds a luscious creaminess that binds everything together and makes the sausage balls tender.
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained: Brings a zesty tomato and mild chili flavor that livens up each bite without overpowering.
- 1¾ cups Bisquick baking mix: Provides the perfect fluffy yet firm texture to hold the sausage balls intact.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp, melty cheese that enhances richness and adds that classic cheesiness everyone loves.
How to Make Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by softening the cream cheese to room temperature so it mixes smoothly with the other ingredients. Open and drain the Rotel tomatoes and green chilies to avoid excess moisture that could make the mixture too wet. Gathering everything at hand makes the assembly go quickly and smoothly.
Step 2: Mix the Sausage and Cream Cheese
In a large bowl, combine the uncooked hot sausage with the softened cream cheese. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix thoroughly until the two form a cohesive base. This mixture will be the savory backbone that carries all the flavors.
Step 3: Incorporate the Rotel Tomatoes and Cheddar Cheese
Add in the drained Rotel and shredded cheddar cheese to the sausage and cream cheese blend. Stir gently to distribute evenly, ensuring every bite will have that lovely spicy tomato zest and cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Add Bisquick and Form Balls
Sprinkle the Bisquick baking mix over the wet ingredients and fold it in until a firm dough forms. The dough should be moist but hold its shape. Using your hands, roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls—roughly one inch across—placing them evenly on a baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the sausage balls for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked thoroughly. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be impossible to resist!
How to Serve Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe
Garnishes
While these sausage balls shine on their own, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a small dollop of ranch or spicy dipping sauce can add a refreshing contrast to their richness. Serve them warm for the best experience.
Side Dishes
Pairing your sausage balls with crisp vegetable sticks, a crunchy salad, or even some creamy mashed potatoes can round out the spread nicely. They also complement hearty soups and stews, making them a versatile party treat or comfort food snack.
Creative Ways to Present
You can present these sausage balls skewered on cocktail sticks for a charming appetizer tray or nestle them in lettuce cups for a bite-sized twist. Serving them with an assortment of dipping sauces invites everyone to customize their flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover sausage balls to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor and texture well, making for a convenient snack or quick meal addition.
Freezing
This Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe also freezes beautifully. Place baked, cooled sausage balls on a lined tray to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months without losing their delicious taste.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or frozen sausage balls in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method keeps them crispy on the outside and tender inside, just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use mild sausage instead of hot sausage?
Absolutely! Mild sausage works perfectly if you prefer less heat. The Rotel adds a hint of spice already, so mild sausage can balance the flavors nicely without being too spicy.
Do I have to drain the Rotel tomatoes and chilies?
Yes, draining the Rotel helps prevent excess moisture from making the dough too wet, which can affect the texture of the sausage balls. A little moisture is fine but avoid sogginess.
Can these sausage balls be made gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix following a similar biscuit recipe. Just make sure the mix you use is gluten-free and suitable for baking.
Is it possible to prepare the mixture ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! You can mix all the ingredients and form the sausage balls, then refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking. This is great for prepping ahead for gatherings.
How do I make these sausage balls spicier?
If you like more heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or using hotter varieties of sausage and Rotel. You can also serve with spicy dipping sauces to amp up the flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe is one of those dishes that brings everyone together with its warm, cheesy, and slightly spicy goodness. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or a cozy night in, these sausage balls never disappoint. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly they disappear—you’ll definitely be adding it to your must-make list!
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Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 40 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Made with spicy hot sausage, creamy softened cream cheese, zesty Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, Bisquick baking mix, and sharp cheddar cheese, these bite-sized balls are baked to golden perfection with a crispy outside and a tender, flavorful inside.
Ingredients
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
- Preheat the oven: Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the sausage balls evenly and thoroughly.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked hot sausage and softened cream cheese. Use your hands or a spatula to blend these together until smooth and well incorporated. Then add the drained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, the Bisquick baking mix, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until you have a uniform dough-like consistency.
- Form the balls: Using your hands, roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls roughly 1 inch in diameter. Place the sausage balls on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them evenly so they bake uniformly.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown on the outside and cooked through inside.
- Serve: Remove the sausage balls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These are excellent served warm as an appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the Rotel tomatoes well to avoid excess moisture making the mixture too wet.
- Adjust the size of the sausage balls if you prefer larger or smaller bites, but adjust baking time accordingly.
- These sausage balls can be prepared ahead and frozen before baking.
- For less spicy flavor, use mild sausage or mild Rotel tomatoes instead of hot.
