Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: 5 Easy Steps

Have you ever wondered how to make the perfect appetizer that will wow your guests? Look no further than Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls! These bite-sized delights are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a snack that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make these irresistible sausage balls in just 5 easy steps!

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a kicked-up version of the classic sausage ball recipe. What makes them special is the addition of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chiles, which gives them a unique Tex-Mex flavor. These sausage balls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or as an appetizer at parties. They’re also great for a quick snack anytime.

Essential Ingredients

To make Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, you’ll need the following key ingredients:

1. Sausage: Use 1 lb of uncooked breakfast sausage. You can choose your favorite type, whether it’s regular, hot, or even maple-flavored. The sausage provides the main flavor and protein in the recipe.
2. Cream Cheese: 8 oz of softened cream cheese adds a creamy texture and helps bind the ingredients together. It also contributes to the moistness of the sausage balls.
3. Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chiles: A 10-oz can of Rotel, drained, gives the sausage balls their signature Tex-Mex flavor. You can choose the heat level (mild, original, or hot) based on your preference.
4. Bisquick: 1½ cups of Bisquick biscuit mix acts as the binder and adds a slight fluffiness to the sausage balls. It’s a convenient and easy-to-use ingredient.
5. Cheese: 2 cups of shredded Mexican cheese blend adds a cheesy dimension and enhances the overall flavor. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella.

Substitutions and Variations

• Sausage: You can use turkey sausage for a lower-calorie option.
• Cheese: Feel free to substitute the Mexican cheese blend with your favorite shredded cheese.
• Bisquick: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free Bisquick.
• Add-ins: You can add diced green onions or other herbs for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the sausage balls from sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel tomatoes and green chiles, Bisquick, and shredded cheese. Use an electric mixer or your hands to mix until everything is well combined.
3. Form the Sausage Balls: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve: Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.

Tips for Cooking and Preparing

• If the mixture is too sticky, resist the urge to add more Bisquick. Instead, use a cookie scoop to form the balls.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• To ensure the sausage is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Assembly

To assemble the Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, simply follow the mixing and forming steps outlined above. Once the sausage balls are baked, you can arrange them on a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley or other herbs for added presentation.

Tips for Presentation

• Serve the sausage balls with a variety of dipping sauces to cater to different tastes.
• Arrange them in a circular pattern on the platter for an appealing presentation.
• Keep them warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish if serving at a party.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls can be made ahead of time and stored for later use. Here’s how:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
• Freezer: To freeze, place the uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, place the frozen balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.

Recipe Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, try these creative variations:

• Spicy Sausage Balls: Use hot sausage and pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
• Cheesy Sausage Balls: Add an extra cup of shredded cheese for even more cheesy goodness.
• Herb-Infused Sausage Balls: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage for added flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the ingredients, as this can make the sausage balls tough.
• Overcooking: Avoid overcooking the sausage balls, as this can dry them out.
• Not Draining Rotel: Make sure to drain the Rotel tomatoes and green chiles well to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.

Nutritional Information

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are not only delicious but also packed with protein and flavor. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 20-25 balls):

• Calories: Approximately 192 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 38mg
• Sodium: 364mg
• Potassium: 122mg
• Sugar: 2g
• Vitamin A: 273 IU
• Vitamin C: 2mg
• Calcium: 118mg
• Iron: 1mg

Conclusion

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. With their unique Tex-Mex flavor and simple preparation, they’re perfect for any occasion. So, why not give them a try and see for yourself how delicious they can be? Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use any type of breakfast sausage, such as turkey, maple, or sage-flavored sausage.

Can I make these sausage balls gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute Bisquick with gluten-free Bisquick for a gluten-free version.

How long can I store leftover sausage balls?

Leftover sausage balls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze uncooked sausage balls?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked sausage balls. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.

What’s the best way to reheat sausage balls?

Reheat sausage balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

With these tips and tricks, you’re ready to make the perfect Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. Enjoy!