Are you looking for an easy and delicious appetizer that's guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering? Look no further! These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are unbelievably simple to make, bursting with flavor, and always disappear quickly. They're the perfect blend of spicy, cheesy, and savory – a truly satisfying snack that's perfect for game day, parties, or a quick and easy weeknight dinner. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a delicious dish without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 (16 ounce) package of breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1 (8 ounce) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 (10 ounce) can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese!)
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup of chopped green onions (optional, for added freshness)
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
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Brown the sausage: In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, undrained Rotel, cheddar cheese, flour, green onions (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. Make sure the cream cheese is fully incorporated for a smooth mixture.
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Shape the balls: Using a spoon or your hands (lightly oiled to prevent sticking), roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
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Serve and enjoy! These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are best served warm, but they're also delicious at room temperature. They're perfect with your favorite dips, or simply on their own.
Tips for the Best Sausage Balls:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough sausage balls. Mix until just combined.
- Soften the cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. You can even microwave it for a few seconds to speed up the process.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit it entirely. For extra heat, add a pinch of chili powder.
- Get creative with cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses would all be delicious.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage Balls: Use spicy chorizo or Italian sausage for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Sausage Balls: Substitute the sausage with cooked lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly option. Add some extra herbs and spices for flavor.
- Bacon-Wrapped Sausage Balls: Wrap each sausage ball in a piece of bacon before baking for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on sausage type and cheese)
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7g
This recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to elevate your appetizer game. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are sure to become a favorite in your recipe book. They're a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!