Description
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Ingredients:
1 lb sausage (mild or spicy)
1 ¾ cups Bisquick baking mix
1 cup cheddar cheese
1 can Rotel (well-drained)
4 oz cream cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
Combine all ingredients, including garlic powder, in a large bowl.
Roll into uniform balls and place on a greased sheet.
Bake for 20 minutes, then serve warm for a savory kick!
#SausageBallFiesta
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls every time.
- Prep and Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Drain the Rotel: This is crucial. Place the can of Rotel in a fine-mesh strainer and press with a spoon to remove all excess liquid. Let it drain thoroughly while you gather other ingredients.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the 1 lb of sausage, 4 oz of softened cream cheese, and the well-drained Rotel. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix until fully incorporated.
- Add Dry Ingredients: To the sausage mixture, add 1 ¾ cups of Bisquick, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 tsp of garlic powder. Mix until a cohesive dough forms, but avoid overmixing.
- Form the Balls: Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, portion the mixture. Roll each portion between your palms to form uniform, 1-inch balls. Place them about an inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and the sausage is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Let the sausage balls cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a serving plate. They are best served warm.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile sausage balls are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as a hot appetizer at parties with dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or extra Rotel queso. For a hearty breakfast or brunch, pair them with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. They also make an excellent game-day snack or a quick, protein-packed grab-and-go option for busy mornings.
How-to Summary
To make Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: Preheat oven to 375°F. Thoroughly drain one can of Rotel. In a large bowl, combine 1 lb sausage, 4 oz cream cheese, and the drained Rotel. Mix in 1 ¾ cups Bisquick, 1 cup cheddar cheese, and 1 tsp garlic powder. Roll into 1-inch balls and bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the unbaked balls and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them unbaked on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 extra minutes.
Can I use a different baking mix? Absolutely. Any complete biscuit or pancake baking mix can be substituted for Bisquick in the same measurement.
My mixture is too wet/sticky to roll. What do I do? This usually means the Rotel wasn’t drained well enough. Add an extra tablespoon or two of Bisquick or shredded cheese to the mixture until it’s manageable.
Can I use hot sausage? Definitely! Using hot sausage is a great way to add an extra kick. You can also use a spicier variety of Rotel.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining the Rotel: Excess liquid is the #1 cause of soggy, misshapen sausage balls. Press out every last drop.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined. Overworking the dough can make the balls tough.
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy, even mixing.
- Uneven Sizing: Use a scoop for uniform balls. This ensures even cooking, so some aren’t raw while others are overdone.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Letting them cool for 5 minutes after baking allows them to set and makes them easier to handle.
Conclusion
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, blending savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a tangy, spicy kick from the Rotel. By following this detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a perfect batch every time. Whether for a party, breakfast, or a simple snack, this easy recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy your #SausageBallFiesta!
