Irresistible Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for added heat)
• 1 cup shredded cheese for topping(optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Sausage and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Gradually add the dry mixture to the sausage mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
3. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheeseuntil evenly distributed.

Step 4: Shape the Sausage Balls

Use your hands to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
2. If using the optional shredded cheese topping, sprinkle it on top of the sausage balls during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or part of a meal.

Tips for the Perfect Sausage Balls

1. Choose Your Sausage Wisely: Opt for spicy sausage if you like a kick or mild for a family-friendly version.
2. Drain the Rotel Well: Excess liquid can make the mixture too soft.
3. Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients until just mixed to avoid tough sausage balls.
4. Uniform Size: Keep the sausage balls the same size to ensure even cooking.
5. Customize the Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spice level.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy dipping sauce for added flavor.
• Pair with a side of veggies or crackersfor a more substantial snack.
• Use them as a filling for sliders or wraps for a creative twist.

Storage and Reheating

Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Place uncooked or cooked sausage balls on a baking sheet and freeze. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of creamy cheese, flavorful sausage, and zesty Rotel creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The added seasonings and optional cayenne pepper provide a customizable kick, making these sausage balls an irresistible snack for any occasion.