Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: A Thanksgiving Delight

Introduction

When you think of a Thanksgiving spread, the traditional turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie are often the stars. But what about the appetizers? Having a few easy-to-make yet delicious appetizers can set the tone for a festive meal and keep your guests satisfied while they wait for the main course. One appetizer that always steals the show at any holiday gathering is Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls.

These savory, cheesy, and flavorful bites are the perfect balance of richness and spice. The combination of sausage, cream cheese, and a hint of spice from Rotel tomatoes creates a mouthwatering snack that’s hard to resist. Whether served as a pre-meal nibble or an irresistible party snack, these sausage balls quickly become a crowd favorite. The addition of Rotel tomatoes gives them a delightful zing, while the cream cheese ensures they’re rich and creamy on the inside with a slightly crispy exterior.

I came across this recipe years ago, and it quickly became a staple at every holiday meal I host. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that packs a big punch in terms of flavor. They’re perfect for Thanksgiving, but also great for Christmas, New Year’s Eve parties, or even as a fun snack during football season. Let’s dive into why you’ll love these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls and how to make them yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Packed: The creamy texture of the cream cheese combined with the spicy kick of Rotel tomatoes and the savory goodness of sausage creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a batch of these ready in no time.
• Perfect for Holidays: Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or just having a small family gathering, these sausage balls are a great appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests.
• Freezer Friendly: These sausage balls freeze beautifully, so you can make them ahead of time and bake them when you need them.
• Versatile: You can adjust the spice level and make the recipe your own by adding different seasonings or using a different type of sausage.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 35 minutes (10 minutes prep, 25 minutes cooking)
• Servings: This recipe makes about 24 sausage balls (serving size: 4-6 per person depending on portion size).
• Nutrition Facts:
  • Calories per serving: 180
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbs: 3g
  • Fat: 14g

Ingredients

• 1 pound breakfast sausage: Choose your favorite breakfast sausage. You can use mild, spicy, or hot sausage depending on your preferred heat level.
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies: This gives the sausage balls their signature flavor and just the right amount of heat.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The cream cheese adds a smooth, creamy texture that makes these sausage balls rich and irresistible.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich, bold flavor that complements the sausage and Rotel perfectly.
• 2 cups self-rising flour: This acts as a binder and helps the sausage balls hold their shape.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a layer of savory depth to the flavor profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: For seasoning the mixture and enhancing the other flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: To balance out the richness of the sausage and cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

STEP 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the sausage balls cook evenly and develop a golden, crispy exterior.

STEP 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Rotel tomatoes (with juices), self-rising flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix the ingredients until everything is well incorporated. It might feel a little sticky, but that’s perfectly normal. The cream cheese and sausage will help bind everything together.

STEP 3: Roll the Sausage Balls

Once the mixture is ready, take a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. You can make them slightly smaller or larger depending on your preference, but a good size is about 1-inch in diameter. Place the rolled sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to space them out evenly to allow them to cook properly.

STEP 4: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the sausage balls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the outside. They should be firm to the touch, and the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to check them early and keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

STEP 5: Serve

Once the sausage balls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These sausage balls are best enjoyed warm, and they pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

How to Serve

• Appetizers: Serve these sausage balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy grab-and-go bites.
• Main Course: You can also serve these sausage balls as part of a breakfast or brunch spread, or even with a side of mashed potatoes for a hearty, comfort food meal.
• Dipping Sauces: For a bit of extra flavor, serve these sausage balls with your favorite dipping sauces. Some great options include:
  • Ranch Dressing: Classic and creamy, it’s a perfect pairing with the savory sausage.
  • Honey Mustard: The sweetness of honey mustard complements the spicy kick from the Rotel.
  • Sriracha Mayo: For those who love a little heat, a mix of sriracha and mayo creates a creamy yet spicy dipping sauce.
  • Barbecue Sauce: The smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce balances the richness of the sausage balls.

Additional Tips

1. Use Your Favorite Sausage: The beauty of this recipe is that you can choose any breakfast sausage that you love. Whether it’s mild, spicy, or hot, the sausage flavor will shine through.
2. Add Extra Heat: If you like your food extra spicy, consider using hot Rotel or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
3. Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can result in tough sausage balls.
4. Adjust the Cheese: Feel free to mix different kinds of cheese into the recipe. A combination of cheddar and mozzarella, for example, will give you a wonderful gooey interior.
5. Make Ahead: These sausage balls can be prepared in advance. You can roll them into balls and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, bake them at 350°F for about 30 minutes.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap out the self-rising flour for a gluten-free baking mix. Make sure the sausage and cheese you use are also gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Sausage: For a vegetarian alternative, use plant-based sausage in place of traditional pork sausage. The other ingredients will still work wonderfully with this substitution.
• Cheese Variations: Try mixing different cheeses into the sausage ball mixture, like pepper jack for a little extra spice or cream cheese for an even more decadent texture.
• Add Veggies: While this recipe is all about savory sausage, adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or even spinach can give your sausage balls a fresh twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: These sausage balls are perfect for serving with side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh garden salad.
• Holiday Feast: Add these sausage balls to your Thanksgiving spread as an appetizer or side dish. They pair beautifully with turkey, ham, and other holiday favorites.
• Brunch: These sausage balls make a great addition to any brunch menu. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs, biscuits, or fruit salad.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to warm them through.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, place them directly on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Special Equipment

• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat ensures that your sausage balls bake evenly and don’t stick.
• Meat Thermometer: This is essential to check the internal temperature of the sausage balls, ensuring they’re fully cooked without being overdone.
• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl will help you combine all the ingredients efficiently without making a mess.

FAQ Section

Can I make these sausage balls without Rotel?
Yes, if you don’t have Rotel on hand, you can substitute with diced tomatoes and a small amount of chopped green chilies for similar flavor.

How do I prevent my sausage balls from falling apart?
Make sure to use the right ratio of ingredients. Adding enough flour and cheese helps bind the mixture together. Also, don’t skip the baking time—allowing them to cook through helps them hold their shape.

Can I make these sausage balls spicier?
Definitely! You can add extra heat by using spicy sausage, hot Rotel, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

Conclusion

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a fantastic addition to any holiday spread. They’re packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for serving a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving feast or enjoying a cozy family gathering, these savory treats will leave your guests coming back for more. Give this recipe a try, and I’m sure it’ll become a staple in your holiday meal planning.

Be sure to share your sausage ball creations with me on social media—I’d love to see how they turn out! Happy cooking!

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