Introduction
There’s something irresistible about the warm, savory aroma wafting through your kitchen when you whip up a batch of sausage balls. These delicious bites, featuring a perfect blend of pork sausage and creamy cheese, are an absolute crowd-pleaser. With a delightful kick from Rotel tomatoes, they are not just your average appetizer; they’re a burst of flavor that everyone will love! Perfect for parties, game days, or cozy nights in, these sausage balls are sure to become a beloved staple in your repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork sausage
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups biscuit mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 sausage balls
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork sausage and softened cream cheese. Use your hands (or a large spoon) to mix until the two are well blended, creating a creamy, smooth base.
- Next, stir in the drained Rotel tomatoes and shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring every bite will be bursting with flavor.
- Add in the biscuit mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until everything is just combined — be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the sausage balls tough.
- Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they look beautifully browned and your kitchen smells heavenly!
- Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Your guests won’t be able to wait!
Notes or Tips
For a twist on flavor, consider adding chopped green onions or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs to the mixture. These sausage balls also freeze wonderfully, so feel free to make a double batch for easy snacking later! Just bake as directed, then let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for freezing.
Cooking Techniques
Mixing by hand is key for this recipe. This allows you to feel the texture of the mixture, ensuring that the sausage and cheese are just combined without overworking the dough. Rolling the balls evenly will help them bake uniformly, giving you that perfect golden exterior and tender inside.
FAQ
- Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare them and freeze them before baking, then just pop them into the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
- What can I dip them in? These delicious bites pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a zesty salsa for an extra kick!
Conclusion
These Rotel cream cheese sausage balls are not only simple to make but also bring joy and flavor to any gathering. Once you take a bite of that crunchy exterior and the rich, cheesy, savory interior, you’ll understand why they’re so beloved. So gather your loved ones, serve these delightful snacks, and watch them disappear in a flash!