Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delicious and savory treat, perfect for parties, game days, or as a tasty appetizer. Combining spicy sausage with creamy cheese and zesty tomatoes, they deliver a flavor punch in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb hot sausage, uncooked
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
• 1 cup Bisquick baking mix
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel. Add the Bisquick baking mix and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
3. Form Balls:
   Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake:
   Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve:
   Serve warm and enjoy these flavorful, cheesy bites!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 6-8

Variations

• Spice Level: Use mild sausage for a milder flavor or add extra spices like cayenne for more heat.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the sausage with a meat alternative or a mixture of finely chopped vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the balls, then refrigerate them until ready to bake.
2. What can I serve with these sausage balls?
   They pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or a spicy salsa.
3. Can I freeze these sausage balls?
   Yes, freeze them before baking. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of Rotel?
   Yes, you can use diced fresh tomatoes and add some chopped jalapeños for heat.
5. How do I know when they are done?
   They should be golden brown on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
6. Can I use a different baking mix?
   Yes, you can substitute with other biscuit or pancake mixes, but adjust the liquid if necessary.
7. What type of sausage should I use?
   Hot sausage adds a nice kick, but you can use any variety you prefer, including turkey or chicken sausage.
8. How do I make them healthier?
   Opt for lower-fat sausage and cream cheese or add more vegetables to the mixture.
9. Can I make these without Bisquick?
   Yes, you can use a homemade baking mix or substitute with regular flour, adjusting the proportions slightly.
10. What is the best way to serve these?
    They are best served warm, right out of the oven, for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a quick and easy recipe that brings together bold flavors in a fun and portable form. Whether for a casual gathering or a festive party, these bites are sure to be a hit with everyone!

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