These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a tasty treat! Packed with savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a zesty kick from Rotel, they’re perfect for any gathering.
When I make these, my friends can’t resist them! They’re so easy to whip up and make for great snacks. Plus, they stay nice and warm, inviting everyone for a second, or maybe third, helping!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can choose mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too. I like to mix mild and spicy for a nice balance!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds creaminess to the mix. If dairy is a concern, try using vegan cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Both give a nice texture!
Rotel Tomatoes: The canned Rotel adds flavor with its tomatoes and chilies. If you can’t find it, substitute with diced tomatoes plus a bit of jalapeño for a kick. Fresh tomatoes work too, but they’ll require seasoning.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic, but feel free to try pepper jack for a spicier twist, or a blend of different cheeses. I’ve even used leftover cheese from the fridge—it all works!
All-Purpose Flour: If you’re looking to go gluten-free, almond or coconut flour are good substitutions, though they may change the texture a bit. A little trial with these options can lead to great results!
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Sausage Balls?
Getting your sausage balls cooked just right is key for the perfect bite. Here are some helpful steps:
- Preheat your oven to the correct temperature (350°F or 175°C) before starting. This ensures even cooking.
- When forming the balls, try to keep them consistent in size, about 1 inch in diameter. This helps them cook evenly.
- Bake until they are golden brown, usually 20-25 minutes, but keep an eye on them towards the end. Ovens can vary!
Let them cool slightly before serving, as they’ll be very hot out of the oven. Enjoy with your favorite sauce for an extra flavor boost!
How to Make Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or additional oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Get ready to enjoy delicious, cheesy sausage balls that are perfect for snacking or serving at parties!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, take a baking sheet and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Sausage and Cream Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage and softened cream cheese. Use your hands or a spatula to mix them well until the cream cheese is fully blended into the sausage. It should be nice and creamy!
3. Add in the Other Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add more flavor! Stir in the drained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, shredded cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s fully combined and looks delicious!
4. Form the Sausage Balls:
Using your hands, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space in between each one.
5. Bake and Enjoy:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes. They’re great served warm, whether as an appetizer or a snack. If you like, pair them with dipping sauces like ranch or salsa for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute the breakfast sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage if you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using a sausage that may require less cooking.
How Can I Make These Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sausage mixture and form the balls a day in advance. Just place the uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight from the freezer into the oven, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sausage Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep them crispy.
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Rotel?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but keep in mind that you’ll need to dice them finely and may want to add a bit of green chili or jalapeño for that classic Rotel flavor. Just make sure to drain excess moisture to avoid soggy sausage balls!
