Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls! These scrumptious bites are the perfect blend of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice from the Rotel tomatoes and green chilies. Whether you’re gearing up for a game day gathering or simply craving a flavorful snack, these easy-to-make sausage balls are sure to be a hit. With a golden brown exterior and a soft, cheesy center, each bite bursts with flavor that will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 1 lb sausage
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 1/2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 sausage balls
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that your sausage balls come out perfectly cooked and golden.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix them together until well blended and creamy, making sure to break up any lumps of sausage.
- To the bowl, stir in the drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, shredded cheese, baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. As they bake, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma!
- Once baked, remove them from the oven and let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes. This will help them firm up slightly and make them easier to handle before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the cheese! A spicy pepper jack or a zesty Mexican blend can add an extra kick.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of Rotel or choose a can of mild diced tomatoes.
- These sausage balls can be made ahead of time and frozen! Just bake from frozen for an extra few minutes when you’re ready to serve.
Cooking Techniques
For the best results, make sure to blend the sausage and cream cheese well to create a smooth mixture. If your mixture feels too sticky or wet, add a bit more baking mix to achieve the right consistency. When shaping your sausage balls, wet your hands with a little water to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands. This simple trick will make the process smoother!
FAQ
- Can I make these sausage balls vegetarian?
No, as this recipe relies on sausage for its flavor and texture. However, you can explore meat alternatives available in stores. - How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to get that warm, gooey texture back.
Conclusion
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, cheesy snack bursting with flavor. Perfect for parties, game days, or just to enjoy at home, they are sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to whip up a batch of these irresistible bites. Your taste buds will thank you!