1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Soften the Cream Cheese:
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
2. Mix the Ingredients
- Combine the Sausage and Cream Cheese:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix until well combined. You can use an electric mixer for easier blending.
- Add the Rotel and Cheddar Cheese:
- Drain the can of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies well to remove excess liquid. Add the drained Rotel and shredded cheddar cheese to the sausage mixture. Mix until evenly distributed.
- Add the Bisquick and Seasonings:
- Add the Bisquick baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using) to the mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. The mixture will be thick and slightly sticky.
3. Form the Sausage Balls
- Shape the Balls:
- Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
4. Bake the Sausage Balls
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool Slightly:
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a serving platter.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve:
- Serve the Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls warm. They’re delicious on their own or with dipping sauces like ranch dressing or spicy mustard.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls
- Drain the Rotel Well: Ensure the Rotel tomatoes and green chilies are well-drained to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.
- Use an Electric Mixer: Using an electric mixer can make combining the ingredients easier and more efficient.
- Even Sizes: Form the sausage balls into even sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Sausage Balls: Use hot sausage and add extra diced jalapeños for a spicier version.
- Cheesy Variations: Try using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick for a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delicious and easy appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With their savory, cheesy flavor and a bit of spice from the Rotel, they’re sure to be a hit.
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls lies in well-combined ingredients and proper baking. By following this guide, you’ll create delicious and crowd-pleasing sausage balls every time.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls!