Appetizers are the life of the party, aren’t they? I mean, what’s a gathering without those little bites that everyone loves to munch on? One of my absolute favorites has to be sausage balls with cream cheese and Rotel. They’re not just delicious; they’re also super easy to whip up! I remember the first time I served these at a friends’ game night. Everyone went wild for them! The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with a hint of spice from the Rotel made them an instant hit. Trust me, they disappeared faster than I could keep track! Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive celebration, these little gems will have your guests coming back for more. Let’s dive into how to make them, shall we?
Ingredients for Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese and Rotel
Gathering the right ingredients is the key to making these sausage balls truly shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound sausage: Use your favorite breakfast sausage. I love using a spicy variety for that extra kick!
- 8 ounces cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature. This makes mixing a breeze and helps achieve that delightful creaminess.
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies: Drain this well to avoid excess moisture. You can choose mild or hot depending on your spice preference!
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Go for sharp cheddar if you want a stronger flavor that complements the sausage beautifully.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This helps bind everything together and gives the balls their structure.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A little garlic goes a long way in enhancing the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: This adds that savory depth we all love.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just enough to balance the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a touch of warmth.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to making a crowd-pleasing appetizer that everyone will love!
How to Prepare Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese and Rotel
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This part is super fun and straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have delicious sausage balls in no time!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your sausage balls cook evenly and get that perfect golden texture. So don’t skip this part!
Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel. I find it’s best to start with these three because they create the base flavor of your sausage balls. Mix them together until everything is well combined, and you’ll notice that creamy goodness starting to come together!
Add Remaining Ingredients
Next, it’s time to add the fun stuff! Toss in the shredded cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s fully incorporated. You want to make sure every little bit of that cheese and seasoning is mixed in well for the ultimate flavor explosion!
Forming the Balls
Once your mixture is nicely combined, it’s time to form the balls! Grab a tablespoon or your hands and scoop out about 1-inch portions. Roll them into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each ball; they’ll expand a bit while baking!
Baking the Sausage Balls
Now, pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and the cheese is bubbling slightly. The smell will be absolutely irresistible, and your guests won’t be able to wait to dig in!
Tips for Success
To ensure your sausage balls turn out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, definitely don’t skip draining the Rotel. Trust me, excess moisture can make your mixture too soggy, and we want those balls to hold their shape! Also, if you’re looking to adjust the spice level, go for a mild or hot Rotel depending on your crowd. You can even mix and match—half mild and half spicy for a balanced kick!
Another little trick is to let your cream cheese sit out for a bit before mixing. This makes it super easy to combine with the sausage. And remember, if you want a cheesier flavor, feel free to add an extra handful of cheddar! These simple tweaks can take your appetizer from good to absolutely fantastic. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
Once your sausage balls are golden brown and ready to go, it’s time to think about how to serve them! I love presenting them on a big platter, garnished with some fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. They look so inviting this way!
For dipping, you can’t go wrong with a classic ranch dressing or a zesty salsa. Both complement the cheesy, savory flavors beautifully! If you want to spice things up a bit, try a jalapeño ranch dip or even a creamy avocado dip. Trust me, your guests will be reaching for seconds!
And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not serve them with some crunchy tortilla chips on the side? It adds a delightful texture contrast that everyone will enjoy. No matter how you choose to present them, these sausage balls are sure to be the star of the show!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After your gathering, if you happen to have any leftover sausage balls (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), storing them properly is key to keeping them delicious for later. Allow them to cool completely first, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper if you’re stacking them, so they don’t stick together!
When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty bites again, reheating is super simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sausage balls on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain their crispy exterior and gooey cheese inside. You can also pop them in the microwave if you’re in a hurry—just be careful not to overheat them, or they might get a bit rubbery! Enjoy your leftovers, you deserve it!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of these delicious sausage balls, which is about two balls. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 400mg
These sausage balls are not only tasty but also pack a punch in terms of flavor and satisfaction. They’re perfect for keeping those hunger pangs at bay while mingling with friends at your next gathering!
FAQ Section
Got questions? Let’s tackle some common ones about these scrumptious sausage balls with cream cheese and Rotel!
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage? Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great lighter option, and it’ll still be delicious. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be a tad milder, so you may want to add a bit more seasoning.
What can I substitute for cream cheese? If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. Just make sure they’re well-blended for that creamy texture.
How do I store leftover sausage balls? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Layer them with parchment paper if stacking to prevent sticking!
Can I freeze these sausage balls? Yes! They freeze beautifully. Just form the balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy!
What variations can I try? Get creative! You can add chopped jalapeños for heat, or switch up the cheese. Pepper jack or a blend of cheeses would be fantastic!
Print
Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese and Rotel: 7 Simple Steps!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 sausage balls 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sausage balls with cream cheese and Rotel are a delicious appetizer perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the sausage, cream cheese, and drained Rotel until well combined.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir until fully incorporated.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in size, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
- Do not skip draining the Rotel to avoid excess moisture.
- You can adjust the spice level by choosing a milder or spicier Rotel.
- These can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 sausage balls
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: sausage balls, cream cheese, Rotel, appetizer recipe, easy recipe
