Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Mixture

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage and softened cream cheese.
    • Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix until well combined. The cream cheese helps keep the sausage balls moist and flavorful.
  2. Add the drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies to the sausage mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Baking Mix

  1. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is evenly incorporated into the sausage mixture.
  2. Gradually add the Bisquick or baking mix, mixing until a dough-like consistency forms.
    • Tip: If the mixture feels too sticky, lightly flour your hands to make rolling easier.

Step 4: Shape the Sausage Balls

  1. Scoop a small amount of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon) and roll it into a ball using your hands.
  2. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
  2. To check for doneness, cut one sausage ball in half to ensure the sausage is fully cooked and no longer pink.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.
  2. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli.

Tips for Perfect Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

  1. Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
  2. Drain Rotel Well: Too much liquid from the tomatoes can make the mixture difficult to roll. Drain thoroughly before adding.
  3. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Freshly grated cheddar cheese melts better and gives a richer flavor than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
  4. Double the Recipe: These sausage balls disappear quickly, so consider doubling the recipe for larger gatherings.

Storage and Reheating

  1. Refrigeration: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  2. Freezing: Freeze uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  3. Reheating: Reheat cooked sausage balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 30–60 seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, these sausage balls come together in no time.
  • Customizable: Adjust the spice level by choosing mild, medium, or spicy sausage and experimenting with different cheeses or seasonings.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party appetizer, potluck dish, or snack, these sausage balls are always a hit.

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a surefire way to delight your guests or satisfy your snack cravings. Their cheesy, savory flavor with a hint of spice makes them irresistible, and the ease of preparation means you’ll come back to this recipe time and again. Try it out today and watch these tasty bites disappear!