Step-by-Step Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent the sausage balls from sticking.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel, shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick mix, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until you have a well-combined mixture. Using your hands for mixing ensures even distribution of all the flavors.
- Form the Sausage Balls:
- Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls. Using a cookie scoop can help create uniform sizes, ensuring even cooking.
- Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
- Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each ball to allow for proper cooking and browning.
- Bake the Sausage Balls:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. To ensure the sausage is fully cooked, check with a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Serve them warm with your choice of dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or hot sauce, to complement their flavors.
Tips for Success:
- Ingredient Variations: If you prefer a milder flavor, use plain diced tomatoes instead of Rotel. For extra spice, choose spicy sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make Ahead: These sausage balls can be prepared ahead of time. Refrigerate the uncooked mixture for up to 24 hours or freeze the rolled balls for longer storage. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
- Serving Ideas: These sausage balls pair wonderfully with a variety of sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a tangy marinara for a twist.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to retain their crispiness.
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a game-day snack, or simply looking for a savory treat, these sausage balls deliver every time. The combination of juicy sausage, creamy cheese, and the zesty kick from Rotel makes this recipe an unforgettable favorite. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a batch of these irresistible bites ready to serve. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—and enjoy every bite!
Pages: 1 2
