Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe

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The Story Behind Sausage Balls

Sausage balls are a classic Southern dish that has been around for decades. Traditionally made with sausage, Bisquick, and cheese, this version includes Rotel tomatoes and cream cheese for added flavor and creaminess. Rotel tomatoes give the dish a zesty kick, and the cream cheese makes the sausage balls even more tender and rich.

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Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

Ground Sausage

Ground sausage is the star of this dish. It provides the savory, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese and seasonings.

• Pro Tip: You can use mild or spicy sausage depending on your heat preference. Spicy sausage will add a nice kick to the recipe.

Rotel Tomatoes

Rotel tomatoes (a mix of diced tomatoes and green chilies) add a spicy, tangy flavor to the sausage balls, giving them a zesty punch.

• Substitution Tip: If you don’t have Rotel, you can use regular diced tomatoes and a small can of green chilies.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese adds creaminess to the sausage balls and helps bind all the ingredients together.

• Pro Tip: Use room-temperature cream cheese to make mixing easier.

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How to Make Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes, drained
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups Bisquick or baking mix
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Pro Tip: Draining the Rotel tomatoes is important to avoid making the mixture too wet.

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Step 2: Mix the Sausage Balls

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, Bisquick, and cheddar cheese.
2. Mix until all ingredients are fully combined. You can use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, or mix by hand.

• Pro Tip: If mixing by hand, it may take a little effort, but the cream cheese will help bind everything together.

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Step 3: Shape and Bake

1. Roll the sausage mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.

• Pro Tip: For even baking, you can turn the sausage balls halfway through cooking.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce. They pair perfectly with ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or a simple sour cream dip. These sausage balls also make a great addition to a breakfast spread or brunch.

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Variations and Add-Ins

Spicy Sausage Balls

For an extra spicy version, use hot sausage and add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mixture. You can also add some red pepper flakes for additional heat.

Cheesy Sausage Balls

If you love extra cheese, increase the amount of shredded cheddar cheese to 2 cups or try using a mix of cheddar and pepper jack for a bit more kick.

Gluten-Free Sausage Balls

To make these sausage balls gluten-free, simply replace the Bisquick or baking mix with a gluten-free alternative.

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Dietary Adaptations

This recipe can be adapted to fit various dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free baking mix like Bob’s Red Mill or a similar brand.
• Low-Carb: For a low-carb version, substitute the Bisquick with almond flour or coconut flour.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the sausage balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked sausage balls and bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I freeze these sausage balls?
Yes! Sausage balls freeze very well. Place the cooked sausage balls in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

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