Oh, let me tell you about these Rotel cream cheese sausage balls! They’re the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I remember the first time I made them; my kitchen filled with the most delightful aromas, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. They’re so easy to prepare, you’ll feel like a pro in no time! Just a few simple ingredients come together to create a snack that’s perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in. With that creamy cheese and a hint of spice from the Rotel, every bite is a burst of flavor that makes you feel right at home. Trust me, if you love easy recipes that deliver big on taste, these sausage balls will quickly become a favorite in your household. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking—this delicious treat is just a few steps away!
Ingredients List
Before we dive into making these delightful Rotel cream cheese sausage balls, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Each one plays a special role in creating that creamy, savory goodness!
- 1 pound of ground sausage: I prefer using regular or mild sausage for a balanced flavor, but you can always go for hot sausage if you’re looking for a little extra kick!
- 8 ounces of softened cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened so it mixes easily with the sausage. This will give your sausage balls that delightful creaminess.
- 1 can (10 oz) of Rotel tomatoes, drained: These add a wonderful burst of flavor and just the right amount of spice. Be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture!
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese: I like sharp cheddar for its rich taste, but feel free to use mild or even a cheese blend if you want a different flavor profile.
- 2 cups of biscuit baking mix: This is what helps bind everything together and gives the sausage balls their lovely texture. You can find it in the baking aisle of your grocery store.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a snack that everyone will love! Let’s keep it simple and delicious!
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your sausage balls bake evenly and turn out perfectly golden brown. While that oven warms up, you can get everything else ready!
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your pound of ground sausage and 8 ounces of softened cream cheese. I like to use my hands for this part—it’s so satisfying to squish everything together! You want to mix until the sausage and cream cheese are well combined and you can’t see any lumps. It should be a nice, creamy consistency that feels good to the touch.
Incorporate Rotel and Cheese
Next, add in that can of drained Rotel tomatoes and your 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Wow, the colors and smells are already making my mouth water! Mix everything together well until the tomatoes and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the sausage mixture. This is where the flavor really starts to build!
Add Biscuit Baking Mix
Now, it’s time to stir in the 2 cups of biscuit baking mix. This will help bind everything together and give your sausage balls that perfect texture. Keep mixing until all the ingredients are fully combined and you have a cohesive mixture. If it feels a bit sticky, that’s okay! It should hold together nicely.
Form the Sausage Balls
Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. I like to slightly dampen my hands with water to help prevent sticking. Make sure they’re all about the same size so they cook evenly—this will give you that lovely golden brown finish all around!
Bake the Sausage Balls
Place your formed sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want them to be golden brown and cooked through. The aroma will be irresistible!
Cool and Serve
Once they’re out of the oven, let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes. This helps them firm up a bit, making them easier to serve. Trust me, letting them cool slightly also enhances the flavors, and you’ll have a delightful treat ready to share!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days!
- Comforting flavors that remind you of home-cooked goodness.
- Great for gatherings—everyone loves these tasty bites!
- Versatile ingredients that can be adjusted to suit your taste.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) make a delicious snack or breakfast.
- They bake up golden brown and are so satisfying to eat!
Tips for Success
To make your Rotel cream cheese sausage balls truly shine, here are some handy tips! First, when mixing the ingredients, make sure your cream cheese is really softened—it makes blending so much easier and gives that creamy texture. If you like a little extra spice, don’t hesitate to add some diced jalapeños along with the Rotel. Just remember, balance is key!
As for baking, line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also makes for easier cleanup. Keep an eye on them in the oven; every oven is different, so check around the 20-minute mark. They should be golden and firm to the touch when done.
And if you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can easily reheat them in the oven or microwave—just don’t forget to cover them to keep them moist!
Nutritional Information
Each Rotel cream cheese sausage ball is not only delicious but also packs a satisfying punch of nutrition! Here’s an estimated breakdown for one sausage ball:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Cholesterol: 30mg
These tasty bites are great for energy without overloading on calories, making them a wonderful option for snacking or entertaining. Enjoy knowing you’re indulging in something both tasty and satisfying!
FAQ Section
Can I use turkey sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage for a lower-fat option, and it works just as well in these Rotel cream cheese sausage balls. Just make sure to check for flavor, as some turkey sausages can be a bit milder. You might want to add a pinch of extra seasoning or spices to enhance the taste if you go this route. Trust me, the end result will still be delicious!
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up. They’re perfect for snacking later on, so don’t worry if you have some extra! Just reheat them gently in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I freeze these sausage balls?
Yes, you can definitely freeze these Rotel cream cheese sausage balls! To do this, let them cool completely after baking, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat them from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes. They’ll taste just as delightful as when they were freshly baked!
Serving Suggestions
These Rotel cream cheese sausage balls are fantastic on their own, but if you want to take your snacking experience to the next level, here are some delightful ideas for sides and dips that pair perfectly!
- Ranch dressing: A classic choice! The cool, creamy ranch is the perfect complement to the savory flavors of the sausage balls. Just set out a small bowl for dipping, and watch them disappear!
- Buffalo sauce: For a little kick, try serving with buffalo sauce. The heat from the sauce adds a delicious contrast to the creamy sausage balls, making every bite an adventure!
- Guacamole: If you’re in the mood for something fresh, guacamole is a great option. Its creamy texture and rich flavor balance beautifully with the savory sausage.
- Vegetable platter: Serve the sausage balls alongside a colorful veggie platter. Crunchy carrots, crisp celery, and sweet bell peppers not only look great but add a healthy touch to your spread!
- Fresh fruit: Think about adding some fresh fruit like grapes or apple slices. The sweetness of the fruit provides a lovely contrast that brightens up the whole plate.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. The goal is to create a spread that invites everyone to enjoy these delicious bites together. Happy snacking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover Rotel cream cheese sausage balls is super simple! Once they’ve cooled down completely, place them in an airtight container. Be sure to layer them carefully, so they don’t stick together. They’ll keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a great option for quick snacks or easy meals later on. If you find yourself with extras, you can also freeze them!
To freeze, just let the sausage balls cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Pop them in the freezer until they’re firm, which usually takes about an hour. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they won’t stick together, and you can grab just what you need later on. They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to two months.
When you’re ready to enjoy those frozen sausage balls, there’s no need to thaw them! Just preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them straight from the freezer for about 25 minutes, or until they’re heated through and golden brown. You can also microwave them if you’re in a hurry—just make sure to cover them to keep them moist, heating in short intervals until warmed through.
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can keep the deliciousness going and enjoy these tasty bites whenever the craving strikes!
Print
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: 5 Comforting Bites to Love
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 sausage balls 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make sausage balls with a creamy twist.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine sausage and cream cheese.
- Add Rotel tomatoes and cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Stir in the biscuit baking mix until fully combined.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Substitute turkey sausage for a lower-fat option.
- Use low-fat cream cheese if desired.
- Try different cheese varieties for a unique flavor.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sausage ball
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: rotel cream cheese sausage balls, sausage balls, appetizer recipe
