### **Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: A Savory Snack with Zesty Flavor**
—
### **Introduction:**
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a savory, easy-to-make appetizer that combines spicy sausage, tangy cream cheese, and the zesty kick of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies. These bite-sized morsels are perfect for parties, game day gatherings, or as a quick snack. The combination of sausage and cream cheese gives them a rich, creamy texture, while the addition of Rotel provides a touch of heat and freshness. Whether served as a snack or appetizer, these sausage balls are always a crowd-pleaser and a great way to spice up any occasion.
—
### **Origin and Cultural Significance:**
The sausage ball, a Southern classic, has been a popular comfort food for many years, particularly in the United States. The concept of sausage balls originated as a convenient way to use sausage and cheese in a handheld, easy-to-eat format. They’ve become a staple at parties, holiday gatherings, and potlucks, often served as an appetizer or snack.
Rotel, the canned tomatoes with green chilies, was first introduced in the 1940s and has since become synonymous with spicy, flavorful dishes. Adding Rotel to sausage balls introduces a layer of tangy heat, which has become a beloved twist in Southern cooking. The dish itself has gained popularity beyond the South, becoming a favorite for casual entertaining due to its simplicity, ease of preparation, and bold flavors.
—
### **Ingredients & Quantity:**
#### **For the Sausage Balls:**
– **1 lb ground sausage** (mild or hot, based on preference)
– **8 oz cream cheese**, softened
– **1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies**, drained
– **2 cups shredded cheddar cheese** (or a cheese blend of your choice)
– **1 ½ cups biscuit mix** (such as Bisquick)
– **1 teaspoon garlic powder** (optional, for extra flavor)
– **1 teaspoon onion powder** (optional, for extra flavor)
– **½ teaspoon salt** (or to taste)
– **½ teaspoon black pepper** (or to taste)
#### **Optional Additions:**
– **Fresh herbs**: Add chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh, green flavor.
– **Hot sauce**: Spice up the sausage balls with a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce if you prefer extra heat.
– **Crispy bacon bits**: For an added smoky flavor, mix in some cooked bacon bits.
– **Parmesan cheese**: For a more savory flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan in with the cheddar.
– **Green onions**: Finely chopped green onions can be added to the sausage mix for extra flavor and crunch.
—
### **Tips for Success:**
– **Don’t Overwork the Dough**: When mixing the ingredients, avoid overworking the dough. Overmixing can make the sausage balls tough. Gently combine the ingredients just until they are evenly distributed.
– **Use a Cookie Scoop**: For uniform-sized sausage balls, use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough. This ensures even cooking and a professional look.
– **Drain Rotel Well**: Be sure to drain the Rotel tomatoes thoroughly before adding them to the mix to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture of the sausage balls.
– **Test One Ball First**: Bake one sausage ball to test for flavor and texture. If needed, adjust the seasoning or baking time before baking the full batch.
– **Freezing for Later**: These sausage balls freeze well, either uncooked or cooked. If freezing uncooked sausage balls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
—
### **Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. **Mix the Ingredients**: In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, drained Rotel, biscuit mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined, but be careful not to overmix.
3. **Form the Sausage Balls**: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the sausage mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each ball to allow for even cooking.
4. **Bake the Sausage Balls**: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can test them by cutting one open to ensure the center is no longer pink.
5. **Serve**: Allow the sausage balls to cool slightly before serving. They can be served warm or at room temperature and are perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces or served on their own.
—
### **Description:**
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a rich and savory treat with a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavors. The sausage provides a hearty base, while the cream cheese adds richness and moisture. The Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies bring a burst of freshness and heat, cutting through the richness of the sausage and cheese. The biscuit mix gives the sausage balls a light, fluffy texture, making them easy to enjoy in bite-sized portions. These flavorful morsels are always a hit, whether at a family gathering, a party, or a simple snack.
—
### **Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, for one sausage ball):**
– **Calories:** 150-180 kcal
– **Protein:** 7g
– **Carbohydrates:** 4g
– **Fat:** 12g
– **Saturated Fat:** 5g
– **Cholesterol:** 30mg
– **Sodium:** 350mg
– **Fiber:** 0.5g
– **Sugar:** 1g
*Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the type of sausage used (mild or hot), the brand of biscuit mix, and any optional additions.*
—
### **Conclusion:**
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that offers a perfect combination of rich, creamy, and spicy flavors. These bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and customize, making them an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, from casual get-togethers to holiday parties. The addition of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies elevates the traditional sausage ball, offering a delightful kick and a fresh burst of flavor. Whether served as a main dish or as a savory snack, these sausage balls are sure to be a hit with friends and family.
—
### **Recommendation:**
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful appetizer to serve at your next gathering, Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are highly recommended. They’re easy to prepare, incredibly delicious, and versatile enough to suit different tastes. Whether you enjoy them as a quick snack, a savory breakfast item, or a party favorite, these sausage balls are sure to satisfy. For an even more indulgent treat, serve them with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or sriracha aioli. Embrace the joy of this flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish while savoring the balance of creamy, spicy, and cheesy goodness in every bite!