Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer or snack, combining spicy sausage, creamy Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies), and rich cream cheese. These bite-sized balls are perfect for parties, game day, or any gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (16 oz) breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on sausage and cheese saltiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
Instructions:
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.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until well combined.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using). Stir everything together until the dough is evenly mixed. The mixture should be thick and sticky.
3. Form the Sausage Balls:
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
4. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature; they should reach at least 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
5. Serve:
- Once the sausage balls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, optionally with a dipping sauce such as ranch dressing or a spicy mustard.
Tips:
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can use hot breakfast sausage or a spicier version of Rotel.
- For extra flavor, you can also add some chopped green onions or jalapeños to the sausage mixture.
- These sausage balls freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F when ready to serve.
Enjoy:
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. With their creamy texture and spicy kick, they’re sure to be a hit at your next party or family gathering