Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: A Spicy, Cheesy, and Irresistible Snack

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a crowd-pleasing, bite-sized appetizer that’s packed with flavor. Combining spicy sausage, tangy cream cheese, and a punch of diced tomatoes and green chilies from the Rotel, these savory treats are perfect for any occasion, from game day gatherings to holiday parties. They’re easy to make and deliver an explosion of flavors in every bite.

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Ingredients:

• 1 lb hot sausage, uncooked: The hot sausage adds a deliciously spicy kick to these sausage balls. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute with regular sausage, but the heat is part of what makes these so irresistible.
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: Cream cheese helps bind the ingredients together and adds a rich, creamy texture that balances the heat of the sausage and Rotel.
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained: Rotel provides the perfect combination of juicy tomatoes and spicy green chilies, adding a burst of flavor that takes these sausage balls to the next level.
• 1¾ cups Bisquick baking mix: Bisquick is a convenient and quick way to create the dough that holds everything together. It adds a light and fluffy texture to the sausage balls.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese brings a sharp, cheesy flavor that complements the spiciness of the sausage and the creaminess of the cream cheese. You can use either mild or sharp cheddar, depending on your preference.

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures that your sausage balls bake evenly and come out golden brown and perfectly cooked.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked hot sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel. The combination of these ingredients will create the base for your sausage balls. Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to ensure that it mixes easily with the sausage and Rotel.
   • Add the Bisquick baking mix and shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined. It’s important to mix thoroughly so that the ingredients are evenly distributed, ensuring that every sausage ball has the perfect balance of flavors.
3. Shape the Mixture into Balls:
   • Once your mixture is fully combined, use your hands to shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. The mixture may be a bit sticky, but that’s normal. You can lightly coat your hands with cooking spray or flour to make the rolling process easier.
   • Place the sausage balls onto a baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even cooking.
4. Bake:
   • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the sausage balls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The sausage should be fully cooked, and the Bisquick should give the sausage balls a light, fluffy texture.
   • You’ll know they’re done when the outside is golden and slightly crispy, while the inside remains moist and flavorful.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once the sausage balls are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These sausage balls are best enjoyed warm, but they’re still delicious at room temperature, making them perfect for parties or gatherings where you might need to prepare food in advance.
   • You can serve them on their own or with a dipping sauce like ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or a creamy queso dip for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for Making the Perfect Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls:

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing can cause the sausage balls to become dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are fully combined, and then stop.
• Make-Ahead Option: These sausage balls can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake them. Simply prepare the mixture, shape the sausage balls, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freezing: If you’d like to make a larger batch and freeze some for later, these sausage balls freeze beautifully. After shaping the sausage balls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake the frozen sausage balls directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Variations and Add-Ons:

• Different Sausage Options: While hot sausage adds a nice kick, you can easily substitute it with mild sausage, Italian sausage, or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. Each type of sausage will give the sausage balls a slightly different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties.
• Cheese Swaps: If cheddar isn’t your favorite cheese, try swapping it out for another type like pepper jack, mozzarella, or even smoked gouda. Each cheese will bring a unique flavor to the sausage balls.
• Add Some Veggies: For a bit of extra texture and flavor, consider adding finely chopped vegetables like green onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños to the mixture. The veggies will add a fresh, crunchy element to the sausage balls.

Serving Suggestions:

• Appetizer: Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls make a fantastic appetizer for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings. Serve them on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.
• Breakfast or Brunch: These sausage balls are also a great addition to a breakfast or brunch spread. Pair them with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and coffee for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Snack: Keep a batch of sausage balls in the fridge or freezer for a quick and easy snack that can be reheated in the microwave or oven.

Storing and Reheating:

• Storing: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
• Reheating: If you prefer a crispy exterior, reheating in the oven is the best option. Microwaving will keep them warm but may soften the outside.

Why You’ll Love Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls:

• Flavor-Packed: The combination of hot sausage, tangy cream cheese, and flavorful Rotel makes these sausage balls a flavor-packed bite. The cheddar cheese adds an extra layer of richness, while the Bisquick provides a light, fluffy texture.
• Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these sausage balls come together quickly and easily. They’re perfect for busy days when you need a quick and delicious appetizer or snack.
• Versatile: Whether you’re serving them at a party, adding them to a breakfast spread, or enjoying them as a snack, these sausage balls are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings.

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the ultimate combination of spicy, cheesy, and savory flavors. They’re easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves delicious and satisfying snacks.