These Rotel sausage balls are a tasty mix of spicy sausage, cream cheese, and cheese all rolled into perfect little bites. They’re great for snacking or as a party treat!
Making them is a breeze! Just mix the ingredients, roll them up, and bake until they’re golden. I love serving them warm; trust me, everyone goes back for more! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Pork Sausage: This is the main flavor of the dish. You can use turkey sausage for a leaner option or even vegetarian sausage for a plant-based twist.
Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies: For a spicier kick, use the hot variety of Rotel. If you don’t have Rotel, regular diced tomatoes mixed with a bit of chopped jalapeño can work too!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds a rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, low-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative works just as well.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for added flavor. You can substitute with pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Bisquick: This baking mix is convenient, but you can make your own using flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gluten-free flour blends are also great for a gluten-free version.
How Do I Ensure My Sausage Balls Are the Perfect Texture?
The key to great sausage balls is balance in texture. Overmixing can make them tough, so mix until just combined.
- When combining the sausage, cream cheese, and other ingredients, mix gently. Use your hands for better control.
- Form the balls gently without compressing them too much. This helps keep them tender.
- Keep an eye on baking time; bake until golden brown, as they can dry out if overcooked.
These steps will help you achieve that perfect blend of flavor and tenderness in your sausage balls! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Rotel Sausage Balls With Cream Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sausage Balls:
- 1 pound ground pork sausage
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (drained)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups Bisquick baking mix (or similar baking mix)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Dipping:
- Optional dipping sauce, such as ranch or a creamy mustard sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious snack can be prepared in about 15 minutes, with an additional 25 to 30 minutes for baking. So, you’ll be enjoying these tasty sausage balls in under an hour—perfect for a quick party treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork sausage and softened cream cheese. Use a spatula or your hands to mix them well until fully blended and creamy.
3. Add the Flavors:
Now it’s time to bring in the flavor! Add the drained Rotel tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick baking mix, garlic powder, and onion powder to the sausage mixture. Stir everything gently until just combined to keep the balls tender—overmixing is a no-no!
4. Shape the Balls:
With clean hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place these on your prepared baking sheet, evenly spaced so they have room to bake.
5. Bake Them Up:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the sausage balls for around 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’ll be done when they’re golden brown and cooked through.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. For a lovely touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy the sausage balls warm with your choice of dipping sauce like ranch or a creamy mustard sauce. They make for a fantastic party appetizer or a cozy snack!
Dig in and enjoy these flavorful, cheesy, and slightly spicy sausage balls—perfect for any occasion! 🎉
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage, but be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before mixing. You can thaw it overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Bisquick?
If you don’t have Bisquick on hand, you can make your own by combining 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. This DIY mix works perfectly for the sausage balls!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them for about 30 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and roll the sausage balls in advance, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven straight from the fridge.