Indulgent and Flavorful: A Quick Favorite
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls have become a cherished go-to in my kitchen, especially during busy weekends or casual get-togethers. This recipe blends rich cream cheese and the zesty kick of Rotel tomatoes into bite-sized morsels that are perfect for snacking or serving at any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday brunch, game day feast, or a simple family breakfast, these sausage balls are not only a hit with adults but are also kid-approved! The combination of savory sausage and creamy cheese makes these treats a delightful indulgence that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Reasons to try it
Why will you fall in love with Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls? For starters, they’re incredibly simple to make and don’t require any culinary expertise. This recipe will have you in and out of the kitchen within minutes, allowing you more time to enjoy the festivities. They are beyond versatile — perfect as a breakfast option, a party appetizer, or snacks during game day. The unique element of Rotel adds an unexpected burst of flavor that elevates the traditional sausage ball to a new level.
"I made these for a family brunch, and they disappeared in minutes! Everyone loved the flavor, and I loved how easy they were to prepare."
How this recipe comes together
Creating Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls is a straightforward process that anyone can master. First, you’ll gather all your ingredients, then mix them together (hands-on or with a mixer) until well combined. The next steps involve shaping the mixture into bite-sized balls and baking until they turn golden brown. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have an appetizing dish that is sure to impress your guests.
What you’ll need
To whip up a batch of these delicious bites, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chiles
- 1 1/2 cups baking mix
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
Feel free to substitute the breakfast sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter option or switch to low-fat cream cheese for a healthier version. The shredded cheese can also be adjusted depending on your preference — a jalapeño jack can add a spicy kick!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, cream cheese, Rotel tomatoes, baking mix, and Mexican blend cheese.
- Mix by hand or use a mixer until everything is well incorporated.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for about 18–20 minutes, or until the balls are nicely browned. If you’re using frozen sausage balls, increase the baking time slightly.
Serving suggestions
These sausage balls can be enjoyed in numerous ways! Serve them warm straight from the oven as a finger food appetizer. For an extra flavor boost, consider pairing them with a zesty ranch or chipotle dipping sauce. They also make for a hearty addition to a breakfast platter alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or crispy bacon.
How to store
To keep your Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for about 3-4 days. If you want to extend their life, you can freeze the uncooked sausage balls. Just place them on a baking sheet until they are frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw — just add a few extra minutes in the oven.
Helpful cooking tips
For perfectly browned sausage balls, be sure to test one before baking the entire batch. This allows you to adjust seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a crunchier exterior, you might want to bake them for slightly longer. Additionally, using a small ice cream scoop can help you achieve perfectly uniform balls that cook evenly.
Recipe variations
There’s room to play with flavors in this recipe! Consider adding jalapeños for heat or mixing in chopped green onions for a fresh burst. You can even spice things up by using different cheese blends, like adding pepper jack or even using cheddar for a classic taste. For a vegetarian option, try swapping out the sausage for finely chopped mushrooms and bell peppers.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?
Prep time typically takes about 10 minutes, with an additional 18-20 minutes baking time.
Can I make these sausage balls in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and either refrigerate it for up to a day or freeze it for later use.
How do I reheat sausage balls?
To reheat, simply place the sausage balls on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help keep them crispy.
Enjoy crafting these delightful Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, and watch them become a staple in your entertaining repertoire!
