Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Sausage Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage and softened cream cheese. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the sausage and cream cheese until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the Flavor: To the sausage and cream cheese mixture, add the drained Rotel tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and dried oregano (if using). Stir everything together until well incorporated. The mixture will be a bit thick and sticky.
4. Form the Balls: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the sausage mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting one open to make sure it’s no longer pink inside.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best served warm, so pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as they are!

Tips for Perfect Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

• Adjust the Spice: If you like more heat, opt for the spicy version of Rotel tomatoes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
• Cheese Variety: While sharp cheddar cheese gives these sausage balls a rich flavor, you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as pepper jack for an extra kick or mozzarella for a milder taste.
• Make Ahead: You can make the sausage balls ahead of time. Simply form the balls and freeze them on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to serve, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Dipping Sauces: These sausage balls pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider offering ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a zesty twist.

Why You Should Make These Sausage Balls

• Perfect for Parties: These sausage balls are a perfect appetizer for any occasion, from game day to holiday gatherings. They’re easy to prepare in large batches and are always a crowd favorite.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or prefer a milder flavor, these sausage balls can be easily customized to suit your taste.
• Freezer-Friendly: These sausage balls store well in the freezer, which makes them a great option for meal prep. You can bake them whenever you need a quick appetizer or snack.

Conclusion: A Game-Changing Appetizer

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a fantastic, easy-to-make appetizer that will impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe. With their perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavors, they’re the ultimate party snack or holiday treat. Whether you’re serving them for a casual gathering or a special celebration, these sausage balls will quickly become a favorite. Make them once, and you’ll be making them again and again!