Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls Recipe
Introduction
Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls are a savory, bite-sized appetizer perfect for parties or snacking. Packed with flavorful sausage, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice from Rotel tomatoes, these easy-to-make treats are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix (like Bisquick)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it well.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, biscuit baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly blended.
- Step 3: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions before serving while hot.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder version, use diced tomatoes without green chilies instead of Rotel.
- Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for extra spice and depth of flavor.
- Use turkey sausage as a leaner alternative to traditional pork sausage.
- Freeze unbaked sausage balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for easy make-ahead snacks.
Storage
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze cooked sausage balls for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the sausage balls are fully cooked?
They are done when the sausage is no longer pink inside, and the outside is golden brown. Using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 160°F.
PrintCheesy Rotel Sausage Balls Recipe
These Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls are a delicious, savory appetizer featuring a perfect blend of spicy Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, creamy cheese, and hearty sausage. Baked to golden perfection, they are perfect for game days, parties, or any gathering where finger foods shine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings (approximately 24 sausage balls) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat and Cheese
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Other Ingredients
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix (like Bisquick)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it well to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, shredded cheddar cheese, biscuit baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the Balls: Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls. Place each formed ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the sausage balls from the oven and optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. Serve them hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the Rotel tomatoes well to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
- You can use mild or spicy sausage depending on your heat preference.
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in a warm oven or microwave.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the biscuit baking mix with a gluten-free baking mix.
Keywords: Cheesy sausage balls, Rotel sausage balls, party appetizers, baked sausage bites, easy appetizers
