Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

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Here’s a full, detailed guide for a delicious Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls recipe:

Title:

Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe

Introduction:

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a flavorful twist on a classic Southern appetizer. With spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and the zesty kick of Rotel tomatoes, these bite-sized snacks are perfect for parties, game days, holiday gatherings, or even breakfast. They’re incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Origin:

Traditional sausage balls, a staple of Southern cuisine, typically combine sausage, cheese, and biscuit mix. The addition of cream cheese and Rotel (a canned blend of diced tomatoes and green chilies) is a modern twist that makes the texture richer and the flavor bolder. This Tex-Mex inspired version brings extra moisture and spice to a beloved classic.

Ingredients:

Base Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (16 oz) spicy pork sausage (uncooked)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, well-drained
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
  • 2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick or a store brand)

Optional Ingredients:

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for extra flavor)
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (for more heat)
  • Chopped green onions (for garnish)
  • Jalapeño slices (mixed in or used as topping)
  • Fresh cilantro (for a Tex-Mex finish)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Mix Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, combine the sausage, softened cream cheese, well-drained Rotel, cheddar cheese, and baking mix.
    • Mix thoroughly with your hands or a stand mixer until everything is evenly combined.
  5. Form Balls:
    • Scoop and roll the mixture into 1 to 1½ inch balls. Place them about an inch apart on the baking sheet.
  7. Bake:
    • Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
  9. Cool Slightly & Serve:
    • Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with ranch, salsa, or queso dip.

Tips for Success:

  • Drain Rotel very well to avoid excess moisture that can make the mixture too soft.
  • Use softened cream cheese to help ingredients blend more easily.
  • Chill the mixture for 30 minutes before rolling if it’s too sticky to handle.
  • Use a cookie scoop for even sizing and consistent cooking.

Serving Recommendations:

  • Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, spicy queso, or a creamy jalapeño dip.
  • Great as appetizers, brunch bites, or game-day snacks.
  • Pair with scrambled eggs for a quick breakfast option.

Nutrition Information (approx. per 2 balls):

  • Calories: 200–230 kcal
  • Fat: 16–18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7–8g
  • Carbohydrates: 5–7g
  • Protein: 8–10g
  • Sodium: 350–450mg
    Varies depending on sausage and cheese types used.

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