Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

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Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a savory, bite-sized treat bursting with flavor. Perfect for parties, game nights, or as a hearty snack, these sausage balls combine the creaminess of cream cheese, the spicy kick of Rotel, and the heartiness of sausage. With a crispy exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth interior, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Sausage Balls:

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground pork sausage (spicy or mild, based on preference)
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 ¾ cups Bisquick (or any baking mix)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Dipping Sauce:

  • ½ cup ranch dressing
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Prepare the Sausage Mixture:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cream cheese is evenly incorporated.
    • Add the drained Rotel, shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick, and spices (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper). Use your hands or a sturdy spatula to mix everything until combined into a cohesive dough-like mixture.
  3. Shape the Sausage Balls:
    • Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1–1.5 inches in diameter) and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced slightly apart.
  4. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Serve:
    • Let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with the optional dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Methods

  1. Mixing Tips:
    • Use softened cream cheese to make mixing easier. If it’s too cold, microwave it for 15–20 seconds.
    • Drain the Rotel well to avoid excess liquid that could make the mixture too wet.
  2. Shaping:
    • Use a small cookie scoop for evenly sized sausage balls. This ensures even cooking.
  3. Baking:
    • For extra crispiness, place the sausage balls on a wire rack set over the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate underneath.

History

Sausage balls have been a staple in Southern American cuisine for decades, often making appearances at family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Adding cream cheese and Rotel elevates the classic recipe, introducing a creamy and spicy twist that’s become popular in modern variations. These flavors embody the bold and comforting essence of Southern cooking, combining tradition with innovation.

Benefits

  1. Protein-Packed:
    The ground sausage and cheese provide a high protein content, making these sausage balls satisfying and energy-boosting.
  2. Crowd-Pleasing:
    These are perfect for entertaining, as they appeal to a wide range of palates and can be made ahead of time.
  3. Versatile:
    They can be customized with different cheeses, spices, or even alternative proteins like turkey or chicken sausage.
  4. Easy to Prepare:
    With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even to beginner cooks.
  5. Balanced Flavor:
    The combination of creamy, spicy, and savory elements creates a well-rounded taste that satisfies cravings.
  6. Protein-Packed Energy Boost
    Ground Sausage & Cheese: These sausage balls are rich in protein, providing energy and helping to support muscle repair and growth.
    Satisfying Snack: High-protein snacks keep you feeling fuller for longer, reducing unnecessary snacking.

    2. Easy to Prepare
    Minimal Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, this dish is quick to whip up, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
    Beginner-Friendly: Simple instructions and easy techniques make this recipe accessible to cooks of all skill levels.

    3. Customizable to Dietary Needs
    Meat Variations: Can be made with turkey, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.
    Gluten-Free Options: Substitute Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

    4. Flavorful and Versatile
    Rich Flavor Profile: The cream cheese adds creaminess, the Rotel adds a spicy kick, and the sausage brings savory richness.
    Varied Uses: Perfect as appetizers, breakfast snacks, or even paired with a salad for a light meal.

    5. Great for Social Gatherings
    Crowd-Pleasing: The bite-sized portions and bold flavors make these sausage balls a hit at parties, potlucks, or game nights.
    Make-Ahead Convenience: These sausage balls can be prepared in advance, frozen, and reheated, making party prep hassle-free.

    6. Balanced Nutrition
    Carb-Protein Balance: The inclusion of Bisquick adds some carbs for energy, balanced by protein and fat for satiety.
    Moderate Calories: A single serving provides energy without overwhelming calorie counts, making them a reasonable indulgence.

    7. Comfort Food Appeal
    Warm and Hearty: The crispy exterior and creamy, savory interior make this dish the perfect comfort food, ideal for colder months or cozy evenings.
    Nostalgic Elements: The combination of sausage and cheesy flavors often reminds people of family gatherings or childhood snacks.

    8. Supports Creativity in the Kitchen
    Customizable Fillings: Add herbs, spices, or different types of cheese to explore new flavor profiles.
    Pairing Opportunities: Serve with dips like ranch, spicy aioli, or marinara to enhance their versatility.

Formation

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are typically formed into bite-sized portions, making them ideal finger food. The mixture holds together well due to the cream cheese and Bisquick, ensuring a uniform shape and consistent texture.

Nutritional Information (per sausage ball, approximately 24 servings):

  • Calories: 110
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Fat: 8 g
    • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0.5 g
    • Sugars: 1 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Calcium: 40 mg
  • Calories: 110
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0 g
  • Sugars: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Calcium: 40 mg
  • Iron: 0.6 mg

Macronutrient Breakdown:

  1. Protein:
    • Derived from the sausage, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese, offering a good source of muscle-building nutrients.
  2. Fats:
    • The cream cheese and sausage contribute to the fat content, providing energy and aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
    • Limit intake if you’re watching saturated fat levels.
  3. Carbohydrates:
    • Bisquick provides a small amount of carbs for quick energy.
    • Not a significant source of fiber unless modifications are made (e.g., adding whole wheat flour).
  4. Sodium:
    • Higher sodium content due to sausage, cheese, and seasoning. Opt for low-sodium sausage or cheese to reduce levels

Nutritional Highlights:

  • Energy Source: Balanced macronutrients make these sausage balls a good option for a quick energy boost.
  • Calcium: The cheese contributes to calcium intake, supporting bone health.
  • Iron: Provides a small amount of iron, important for red blood cell production.

How to Adjust Nutritional Content:

  1. Reduce Calories: Use leaner sausage (like turkey or chicken sausage) and low-fat cream cheese.
  2. Increase Fiber: Substitute some of the Bisquick with whole wheat flour or oat flour.
  3. Lower Sodium: Choose reduced-sodium sausage, cheese, and seasoning options.
  4. Add Veggies: Mix finely chopped vegetables (like spinach or bell peppers) into the mixture to enhance vitamins and minerals.

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls strike a balance between indulgence and nourishment. With protein and fat providing satiety and Bisquick offering quick energy, they’re a flavorful and satisfying snack. While they are higher in sodium, making smart ingredient swaps can improve their overall nutritional profile, allowing you to enjoy this treat guilt-free!

Conclusion

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the ultimate blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors. Perfect for any occasion, they’re an easy-to-make dish that leaves a lasting impression. Whether served as a party appetizer or a family snack, these sausage balls are bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

For the Lovers of Flavor

Fans of bold, comforting dishes will adore this recipe. If you love the creamy tang of cream cheese, the kick of Rotel, and the savory satisfaction of sausage, these sausage balls will steal your heart. They’re a versatile and universally loved dish that caters to everyone from spice enthusiasts to comfort food fans.

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