These savory sausage balls are a crowd-pleasing appetizer, perfect for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings. The combination of spicy Rotel tomatoes, creamy cheese, and flavorful sausage is simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (regular or hot, your preference)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained well
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1 1/2 cups Bisquick baking mix (or similar baking mix)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the ground pork sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, well-drained Rotel tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Add Sausage and Baking Mix: Add the cooked sausage to the cheese mixture and stir to combine. Then, add the Bisquick baking mix and mix until everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture will be thick.
- Form the Balls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the sausage mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Use hot sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for extra heat.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack or Colby Jack.
- Herbs: Add a teaspoon of dried oregano or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Make ahead: These sausage balls can be made ahead of time and reheated.
- Dipping sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a spicy aioli.
- Drain the Rotel: Draining the Rotel very well is very important, otherwise the sausage balls can become soggy.
Enjoy your delicious Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls!