There’s nothing quite like the savory aroma of Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls wafting through your kitchen. The blend of spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty Rotel creates a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. These little bites of joy are perfect for game day, parties, or just a cozy evening in front of the TV.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
- How do I make these ahead of time?
- Can I freeze Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Picture this: you’re hosting a gathering, and as soon as you pull these beauties out of the oven, your friends are practically tackling each other for a taste. These delightful morsels are not just food; they’re an experience—one that brings people together and creates unforgettable memories. Get ready to dive into a delightful culinary adventure!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are incredibly easy to whip up, making meal prep a breeze
- They burst with flavor from the savory sausage and tangy Rotel
- Visually appealing with their golden-brown crust, they’re sure to impress your guests
- Perfect for parties but versatile enough for snacks or appetizers anytime!
I remember one memorable Super Bowl Sunday when I served these at my party. My friends devoured them so quickly that I barely had time to snap a picture!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Sausage: Choose your favorite type—spicy or mild—depending on how adventurous you feel.
Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for easy mixing; it adds richness and creaminess to the balls.
Rotel Tomatoes: The secret ingredient! Grab a can of original or diced tomatoes with green chilies for that zesty kick.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar enhances flavor; you can use mild if preferred.
Flour: Just enough to help bind everything together; all-purpose flour works best here.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness and color; they’re optional but highly recommended!
Paprika: A sprinkle of smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Mix the Meaty Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until well blended and there are no lumps.
Add the Flavor Makers: Stir in the drained Rotel tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, flour, and paprika. Mix until everything is evenly combined; it should be slightly sticky.
Scoop and Shape Balls: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) from the mixture. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about an inch apart.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!
Serve Warm with Dipping Sauce!: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Pair with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra layer of yum!
Enjoy these delectable Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls at any gathering or as a snack that feels like a hug in food form!
You Must Know
- Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a game-changer for parties
- The combination of creamy cheese and spicy sausage creates a mouthwatering appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests
- Plus, they’re quick and easy to make, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Mix the ingredients in one bowl, then roll into balls and bake until golden brown for about 20-25 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the sausage for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Adding herbs like chives or cilantro can elevate the flavors even more.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible to enhance flavor
- Don’t overmix the dough; it can make the balls tough
- If you want extra heat, add diced jalapeños to the mix for a zesty kick!
Creating these delicious Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls has become a cherished tradition during gatherings. Friends rave about them, always asking for seconds, which warms my heart!
FAQ
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Using low-fat cream cheese is fine but may alter texture slightly.
How do I make these ahead of time?
Prepare and refrigerate raw sausage balls, baking them just before serving.
Can I freeze Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?
Yes, freeze them uncooked; thaw before baking when you’re ready to eat.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 20 servings 1x
Description
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a crowd-pleasing appetizer bursting with flavor. Combining spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes, these savory bites are perfect for game day or any gathering. Easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection, they’re sure to be a hit with friends and family. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce for an unforgettable experience!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground sausage (spicy or mild)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (drained)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup green onions (chopped, optional)
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix ground sausage and softened cream cheese until well combined.
- Stir in drained Rotel tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, flour, and paprika until the mixture is slightly sticky.
- Scoop out small portions of the mixture and shape into 1-inch balls; place them on the prepared baking sheet about an inch apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Serve warm with dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 sausage balls (60g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
