Description
Savory Rotel cream cheese sausage balls bring Southern comfort to appetizer tables with irresistible spicy charm. Packed with zesty flavors and easy preparation, guests will crave these bite-sized delights at gatherings and game day celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
Meats and Proteins:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground sausage
Cheeses:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups (226 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cups (240 grams) biscuit baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1 can (10 ounces/283 grams) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (drained)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup (15 grams) chopped fresh parsley or green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare a clean workspace and gather all necessary ingredients for a smooth cooking experience.
- Activate the oven to 375°F (190°C), creating an ideal environment for baking golden, savory morsels.
- Protect your baking surface with parchment paper or a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a spacious mixing vessel, amalgamate ground sausage, velvety cream cheese, zesty Rotel tomatoes, sharp cheddar, and biscuit mix, infusing with aromatic garlic and onion powders and a whisper of black pepper.
- Thoroughly incorporate all ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the mixture.
- Gently form the blend into uniform spherical portions, roughly one inch in diameter, placing them with strategic spacing on the prepared baking sheet.
- Transfer the tray to the heated oven, allowing the sausage balls to transform into crispy, golden-brown delicacies over 20-25 minutes.
- Verify doneness by confirming an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), ensuring complete and safe cooking.
- Remove from oven and let rest momentarily, allowing the intense flavors to settle and the exterior to achieve optimal crispness.
- Elevate the presentation with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or green onion snippets for a vibrant touch.
- Serve immediately alongside complementary dipping sauces, creating an irresistible appetizer or snack that promises to delight gathered guests.
Notes
- Prep ahead by softening cream cheese and letting sausage reach room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Drain Rotel tomatoes completely to prevent excess moisture that could make sausage balls soggy or fall apart.
- Mix ingredients thoroughly but avoid overmixing, which can make the balls tough and dense.
- Use lean sausage for a less greasy result, and consider blending mild and spicy sausage for complex flavor.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking and prevent undercooked meat.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg