Let me tell you, these sausage balls with cream cheese and Rotel are an absolute game changer for any gathering! Picture this: a cozy get-together with friends, the aroma of savory sausage mingling with the creamy goodness of cheese and the zesty kick from Rotel. They’re bite-sized, packed with flavor, and oh-so-easy to whip up. I remember the first time I made them; I was trying to impress my friends for a game night, and they vanished in minutes! Trust me, once you pop one of these golden-brown balls into your mouth, you’ll understand why they’re always the star of the show. Perfect as an appetizer or a late-night snack, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand for all your gatherings!
Ingredients for Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese and Rotel
- 1 pound sausage (I usually go for the spicy kind for an extra kick!)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (Make sure it’s nice and soft for easy mixing!)
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel tomatoes, drained (This adds the perfect zesty flavor—don’t skip it!)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (I love using sharp cheddar for that bold taste!)
- 2 cups biscuit mix (This helps bind everything together and gives a nice texture!)
How to Prepare Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese and Rotel
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because the right temperature ensures that your sausage balls bake evenly and become that beautiful golden brown we all love. Trust me, if you skip this step, you might end up with undercooked centers, and nobody wants that!
Mix the Ingredients
Now, grab a large mixing bowl and let’s combine the magic! Start by adding the 1 pound of sausage, 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, and that fabulous can of drained Rotel tomatoes. It’s crucial to use softened cream cheese here—this makes everything blend together smoothly and prevents any lumps. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s messy but oh-so-satisfying! Just mix until you have a nice, cohesive mixture that smells divine.
Add Cheese and Biscuit Mix
Next, it’s time to bring in the flavor! Add in the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the 2 cups of biscuit mix. Gently fold these into your sausage mixture. The cheddar adds a creamy richness and the biscuit mix helps bind everything together, creating that perfect texture. Just make sure everything is well incorporated—no dry pockets left behind!
Shape and Bake
Now comes the fun part—shaping! Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Once all your balls are shaped, pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and the kitchen is filled with the most irresistible aroma. Let them cool slightly before serving—trust me, they’ll be worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for last-minute gatherings!
- Deliciously flavorful with a perfect balance of creamy and spicy.
- Great for serving at parties, game nights, or even just a cozy night in.
- Versatile and can be made ahead of time and frozen for later.
- Kid-friendly and loved by adults—everyone will be coming back for seconds!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your sausage balls turn out absolutely perfect! First, be sure to use room temperature cream cheese; this makes mixing a breeze and helps avoid any lumps. If you find the mixture too sticky when shaping, don’t hesitate to lightly grease your hands or use a scoop to help form the balls. Another tip: keep an eye on the baking time! Ovens can vary, so check for that lovely golden brown color around the 20-minute mark. If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing in some spices like garlic powder or onion powder—yum! And if you have leftovers, they freeze beautifully, so make a double batch for an easy snack later on!
Nutritional Information
These sausage balls with cream cheese and Rotel are not only delicious but also relatively easy on the waistline! Each ball contains approximately 150 calories, 10 grams of fat, and 6 grams of protein. You’ll also find about 8 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of sugar per serving. Keep in mind, these values are estimates, so if you’re counting macros, it’s always good to double-check based on your specific ingredients!
FAQ About Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese and Rotel
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, like turkey or chicken, for a lighter option. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing!
Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and form the balls, then freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer—no need to thaw!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze well, so don’t hesitate to stash some away for a quick snack later!
Can I add other ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite spices or even some chopped green onions for an extra burst of flavor. Just remember to adjust the ratios to keep the texture right.
What should I serve these with?
These little bites are fantastic on their own, but you can serve them with dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or even a spicy salsa for an extra kick!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your delicious sausage balls with cream cheese and Rotel, you might find yourself with some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). To store them, simply place the cooled sausage balls in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days, making them an excellent option for quick snacks or easy meals throughout the week!
If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them before baking. Just arrange the formed balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to indulge, bake them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes will ensure they’re warm, crispy, and delicious, just like when they first came out of the oven!
Print
Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese and Rotel: 5 Reasons to Love
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sausage balls with cream cheese and Rotel are a flavorful and easy appetizer perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups biscuit mix
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine sausage, cream cheese, and Rotel.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and biscuit mix to the mixture.
- Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Serve warm for best flavor.
- Can be made ahead and frozen before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: sausage balls, cream cheese, Rotel, appetizer
