Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. The cream cheese should be softened to mix easily with the other ingredients.
2. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, biscuit baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined. This mixture should be thoroughly blended to ensure each sausage ball is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Shape the Sausage Balls

1. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. This size is perfect for bite-sized snacks.
2. Place the shaped sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow for even cooking.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. They should be golden brown and cooked through.
2. To check for doneness, you can cut one sausage ball in half. The inside should be fully cooked with no pink remaining.

Step 5: Cool and Garnish

1. Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This brief cooling period allows them to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle.
2. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving. This adds a touch of color and freshness to the dish.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls warm. They make an excellent appetizer or party snack.
2. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or even a tangy barbecue sauce for added flavor.

Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls:

Ingredient Quality: Use good-quality ground sausage and fresh cheddar cheese for the best flavor.

Consistent Size: Try to make the sausage balls as uniform in size as possible. This ensures they cook evenly.

Mixing Thoroughly: Make sure to mix the ingredients well to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the sausage balls.

Garnishing: Fresh parsley or green onions not only add a visual appeal but also enhance the flavor with a burst of freshness.

Conclusion:

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a fantastic addition to any gathering. Their savory, cheesy flavor combined with the spicy tang of Rotel tomatoes and chilies makes them a hit with everyone. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a delicious snack, these sausage balls are sure to please. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a memorable dish that will have your guests coming back for more. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful taste of these amazing sausage balls!