Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Welcome to this delicious recipe for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls! These savory bites are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack. Made with a blend of spicy Rotel tomatoes, creamy cream cheese, and flavorful sausage, these sausage balls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls:

– They are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients.

– The combination of Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, and sausage creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.

– These sausage balls are perfect for serving as an appetizer, snack, or party food.

– They can be made ahead of time and reheated, making them ideal for busy days.

Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:

Ingredients

– 1 pound of ground sausage

– 1 10-ounce can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained

– 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened

– 1 1/2 cups of biscuit baking mix

– 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese

– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step instructions for making these delicious Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, drained Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, baking mix, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper.

3. Mix the ingredients until well combined, using your hands if necessary to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.

4. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

6. Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls can be served hot or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own or served with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping. They make a perfect appetizer for parties or game day gatherings.

For a fun twist, try serving these sausage balls on toothpicks with a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use mild or regular diced tomatoes instead of Rotel tomatoes. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique flavor profile.

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative or additional vegetables like bell peppers and onions.

Pro Tips for Success

– Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure a smooth and even mixture.

– For added flavor, you can sprinkle the sausage balls with additional shredded cheese before baking.

– To make ahead, prepare the sausage ball mixture and shape them into balls, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

FAQ

Q: Can I freeze these sausage balls?

A: Yes, these sausage balls can be frozen after baking. Simply allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven until heated through.

Q: Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?

A: Yes, you can substitute turkey sausage for pork sausage in this recipe for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to taste.

Q: How long will these sausage balls stay fresh?

A: These sausage balls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven until heated through.

Q: Can I make a larger batch of these sausage balls for a party?

A: Absolutely! Simply double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch. You can also prepare the mixture ahead of time and bake the sausage balls as needed.

Q: Are these sausage balls spicy?

A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted by using mild or hot Rotel tomatoes and adjusting the amount of black pepper to suit your taste preference.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a versatile and delicious appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, these sausage balls are sure to impress. With their flavorful combination of Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, and sausage, they are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the savory goodness of these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls!