Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a flavorful spin on the classic sausage ball appetizer. These savory bites combine the creaminess of cream cheese, the spice of Rotel tomatoes, and the hearty flavor of sausage, creating the perfect party snack. Whether you’re hosting a game day, holiday gathering, or brunch, these sausage balls are bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow this easy recipe to whip up a batch in no time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground sausage (mild, hot, or Italian, based on your preference)
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (drained)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups baking mix (e.g., Bisquick)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix until well blended. This step is easier with your hands or a stand mixer.
- Add the drained Rotel tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, baking mix, garlic powder, and black pepper to the bowl.
- Continue mixing until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Form the Sausage Balls
- Scoop out approximately 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls.
- Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Bake
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the sausage is no longer pink in the center.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let the sausage balls cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving dish.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing or spicy aioli.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving Size: This recipe yields approximately 24-30 sausage balls, making it perfect for parties or larger gatherings.
- Storage: Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute to maintain their texture.
Helpful Notes
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Use hot sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for mild sausage and substitute diced tomatoes without green chilies for the Rotel.
- Cheese Variety: While sharp cheddar cheese is classic, you can try pepper jack cheese for a bit of extra kick or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey texture.
- Consistency Tip: If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of milk. If it’s too wet, add an extra sprinkle of baking mix until it reaches the desired consistency.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef’s Insight: Trisha Yearwood suggests adding a touch of Dijon mustard to sausage ball mixtures to enhance the flavor profile subtly.
- Perfect Shape: Bobby Flay recommends using a cookie scoop to ensure uniform sizes, which helps with even cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can make the sausage ball mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Roll and bake when ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze sausage balls? Absolutely! Place uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
3. What’s the best way to ensure they don’t dry out? Mixing the cream cheese thoroughly into the sausage helps keep them moist. Also, avoid overbaking, as that can dry them out.
4. Can I use a different type of sausage? Yes, turkey sausage or plant-based sausage alternatives can be used if you want a leaner or vegetarian version.
5. Are there any dipping sauces you recommend? Spicy mayo, ranch dressing, or honey mustard are excellent pairings for these savory bites.
6. What type of baking mix is best? Bisquick is a popular choice, but any generic baking mix will work. Just make sure it includes leavening agents for fluffiness.
7. Can I use pre-shredded cheese? Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a richer flavor. Pre-shredded cheese is coated with anti-caking agents that might affect texture slightly.
8. Is it necessary to drain the Rotel tomatoes? Yes, draining is essential to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet and difficult to shape.
9. What can I add for a unique twist? Try mixing in chopped green onions or jalapeños for an added flavor boost.
10. How do I make them gluten-free? Use a gluten-free baking mix in place of regular baking mix to make these sausage balls suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are simple to make and pack a punch of flavor in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, these warm, cheesy bites are sure to be a hit.