Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel, cheddar cheese, and baking mix. Mix well with your hands or a sturdy spatula until everything is combined. (Using your hands helps incorporate the cream cheese!)
Step 3: Form Sausage Balls
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each. (A cookie scoop helps with even sizing!)
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F/70°C). Rotate the baking sheet halfway through.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a serving platter. Serve warm! Enjoy with ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or sriracha mayo!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Softening Cream Cheese: Soften cream cheese to room temperature for easier mixing. Microwave for 10-15 seconds if needed.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving. Freeze for longer storage.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Use hot sausage and/or add crushed red pepper flakes. Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with pepper jack, Colby, or mozzarella.
- Herb Addition: Add 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or fresh parsley, rosemary, or thyme.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free baking mix.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these ahead? A: Yes! Prepare and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze them? A: Yes! Freeze unbaked balls, then bake from frozen (add a few extra minutes).
Q: Can I use different sausage? A: Yes, try turkey or chicken sausage.
Q: How to prevent dryness? A: Don’t overbake. Remove when golden brown and cooked through.
Q: What to serve with them? A: Ranch, honey mustard, spicy ketchup, or alongside eggs.
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a flavorful and easy appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. Give this recipe a try – they’re delicious and disappear fast!
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