Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are an irresistible appetizer or snack that combines savory sausage, tangy cream cheese, and a hint of spice from Rotel tomatoes. This easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for parties, brunches, or a delicious family treat, offering a simple yet incredibly satisfying bite.
Key Ingredients for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
To make these delectable Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, you’ll need a handful of accessible ingredients. The quality of each component contributes significantly to the final flavor profile, so choose wisely!
- 1 lb (450g) Breakfast Sausage, mild or hot: We recommend a high-quality breakfast sausage as it forms the flavorful base of our balls. Whether you prefer a subtle warmth or a fiery kick, ensure it’s uncooked and ready to be mixed.
- 8 oz (226g) Cream Cheese, softened: Full-fat cream cheese works best for a rich, creamy interior. Make sure it’s softened at room temperature to ensure it blends smoothly with the other ingredients, preventing lumps and ensuring an even distribution of flavor.
- 1 (10 oz / 280g) can Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies, undrained: This is the star ingredient that gives our sausage balls their signature tangy and spicy kick. The diced tomatoes and green chilies add both moisture and a burst of flavor, so don’t drain them!
- 2 cups (240g) Bisquick Baking Mix: This all-in-one baking mix provides the structure for our sausage balls, ensuring they hold their shape while baking and achieve a tender, biscuit-like texture.
- 1 cup (113g) Shredded Cheddar Cheese, sharp or mild: Freshly shredded cheddar melts beautifully and adds a cheesy depth to the sausage balls. You can adjust the sharpness to your preference.
- 1/4 cup (about 60ml) Green Onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish or flavor): While optional, sliced green onions add a fresh, oniony bite and a pop of color, making them a great addition to the mixture or as a garnish.
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder (optional): For an extra layer of savory flavor, garlic powder can elevate the taste profile without being overpowering.
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (optional): A dash of black pepper enhances the overall seasoning and can be adjusted to taste.
How to Make Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are incredibly easy, deliciously satisfying, and packed with savory, cheesy goodness with a subtle kick. Their simple preparation, combined with their rich texture and spicy undertones from the Rotel, makes them a standout appetizer or snack. From mixing to baking, you’re looking at a total preparation and cooking time of approximately 45-50 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or weeknight treats.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create perfect Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls every time. Precision in preparation ensures the best texture and flavor.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and ensures easy cleanup after baking. Using parchment paper also helps the sausage balls to brown evenly.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the undrained can of Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies. Use a sturdy spoon or a rubber spatula to mix them thoroughly until well combined. The texture should be relatively smooth, with the tomatoes evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese. This forms the creamy, tangy core of your sausage balls.
Step 3: Add Sausage and Seasonings
Next, crumble the raw breakfast sausage into the cream cheese and Rotel mixture. Add in the optional garlic powder and black pepper at this stage. Using your hands, mix everything together. It’s important to really get your hands in there and combine until the sausage is evenly distributed and the mixture is uniform. This process can be a bit messy but is essential for ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Once the sausage mixture is well combined, gradually add the Bisquick baking mix and the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue mixing with your hands until all the dry ingredients are fully incorporated into the wet mixture. The dough will become quite stiff, but it should still be pliable enough to roll. Be careful not to overmix, which can lead to tough sausage balls. If using, fold in the thinly sliced green onions at this point for an added layer of flavor and color.
Step 5: Form the Sausage Balls
Scoop small portions of the mixture, about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons each, and roll them into uniform balls. Aim for a size similar to a golf ball for even cooking. Place the formed balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each to allow for even air circulation and browning.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your balls. They are done when they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through in the center. To check for doneness, you can break one open; the sausage should no longer be pink.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. They are best served warm, allowing the cheesy, creamy interior to shine through. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce!
Why You’ll Love This Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
You’ll adore these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls for their amazing fusion of savory, cheesy, and subtly spicy flavors, all wrapped up in a tender, moist bite. The genius combination of breakfast sausage, creamy cheese, and the zesty kick from Rotel creates an appetizer that’s simply irresistible. Beyond their incredible taste, making these at home offers a fantastic cost-saving benefit compared to store-bought alternatives or ordering out. You get generously sized, fresh-baked goodness for a fraction of the cost, making them a smart choice for party planning or everyday snacking.
The standout element is definitely the Rotel, which infuses every ball with a lively, tangy warmth that complements the rich cream cheese and savory sausage marvelously. Unlike plain sausage balls, these have a unique zest that sets them apart, similar to a delicious mini breakfast casserole but in a more convenient, bite-sized form. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to these delectable Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls today!
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are not only delicious fresh out of the oven but also excellent for make-ahead options and meal prep. Proper storage ensures they retain their flavor and texture for future enjoyment.
Refrigeration:
To store leftover Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, allow them to cool completely to room temperature first. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to sogginess. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or a resealable bag. They can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For optimal freshness, it’s best to consume them within this timeframe.
Freezing:
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls freeze beautifully, making them an ideal candidate for batch cooking. There are two methods for freezing:
- To freeze cooked sausage balls: After baking, let the sausage balls cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze them for about 1-2 hours, or until solid. This step prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer the solid balls to a heavy-duty freezer bag or an airtight freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
- To freeze uncooked sausage balls: Prepare the mixture and roll the balls as instructed. Instead of baking, arrange the uncooked balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and flash freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When ready to bake, you can bake them directly from frozen. They may require an additional 5-10 minutes of baking time (totaling around 25-35 minutes) compared to thawed or fresh balls.
Reheating:
From Refrigerated:
To reheat refrigerated Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, you have a few options:
- Oven: This is the best method for retaining their crispy exterior. Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave: For a quicker reheat, place a few sausage balls on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, or until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make them tough.
- Air Fryer: Reheating in an air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes will restore some crispiness and warmth.
From Frozen (Cooked):
You can reheat frozen, cooked Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls directly from the freezer.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the frozen sausage balls on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until thoroughly heated and slightly crisp.
- Air Fryer: Reheat in an air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until hot and crispy.
Always ensure that the sausage balls are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Final Thoughts
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are more than just an appetizer; they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of homemade comfort to any occasion. Simple to make yet bursting with savory goodness, they truly vanish off the platter. Don’t hesitate—give this delightful recipe a try and watch them become a new family favorite!
try also :
- Lentil and Sweet Potato Salad
- Cranberry Brie Bites
- Crispy Sweet Potato Bites
- Matcha Cake Recipe
- find more in Pinterest
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and ensures easy cleanup after baking. Using parchment paper also helps the sausage balls to brown evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the undrained can of Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies. Use a sturdy spoon or a rubber spatula to mix them thoroughly until well combined. The texture should be relatively smooth, with the tomatoes evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese. This forms the creamy, tangy core of your sausage balls.8 oz Cream Cheese, softened, 1 can Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies, undrained
- Next, crumble the raw breakfast sausage into the cream cheese and Rotel mixture. Add in the optional garlic powder and black pepper at this stage. Using your hands, mix everything together. It’s important to really get your hands in there and combine until the sausage is evenly distributed and the mixture is uniform. This process can be a bit messy but is essential for ensuring every bite is flavorful.1 lb Breakfast Sausage, mild or hot, 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder, 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- Once the sausage mixture is well combined, gradually add the Bisquick baking mix and the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue mixing with your hands until all the dry ingredients are fully incorporated into the wet mixture. The dough will become quite stiff, but it should still be pliable enough to roll. Be careful not to overmix, which can lead to tough sausage balls. If using, fold in the thinly sliced green onions at this point for an added layer of flavor and color.2 cups Bisquick Baking Mix, 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese, sharp or mild, 1/4 cup Green Onions, thinly sliced
- Scoop small portions of the mixture, about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons each, and roll them into uniform balls. Aim for a size similar to a golf ball for even cooking. Place the formed balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each to allow for even air circulation and browning.
- Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your balls. They are done when they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through in the center. To check for doneness, you can break one open; the sausage should no longer be pink.
- Once baked, remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. They are best served warm, allowing the cheesy, creamy interior to shine through. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce!