Rotel Sausage Balls are a delightful and savory treat that never fails to impress at gatherings and parties. These bite-sized morsels combine the rich flavors of sausage with the zesty kick of Rotel tomatoes, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture. Originating from Southern cuisine, sausage balls have become a beloved staple at potlucks and holiday celebrations, often served alongside dips and other finger foods. What I love most about Rotel Sausage Balls is their incredible convenience; they are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal choice for busy hosts. The combination of cheesy goodness and a hint of spice makes these sausage balls a crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of breakfast sausage (I prefer spicy for an extra kick)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of original Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup of milk (optional, for moisture)
Preparing the Mixture
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your sausage balls cook evenly and get that perfect golden brown color.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage and shredded cheddar cheese. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s the best way to ensure everything is mixed well. Just make sure your hands are clean!
- Add the drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies to the sausage and cheese mixture. The Rotel adds a wonderful flavor and moisture to the balls, so don’t skip this step!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). This dry mixture will help bind everything together.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the sausage mixture. I usually do this in batches, mixing well after each addition. You want to ensure that the flour is fully incorporated without overmixing.
- If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a little milk to help bring it together. Start with a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency. The mixture should be moist but not sticky.
Shaping the Sausage Balls
- Once your mixture is well combined, it’s time to shape the sausage balls. I like to use a small cookie scoop or my hands to form 1-inch balls. This size is perfect for popping in your mouth!
- Place the shaped balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Make sure to leave some space between each ball, as they will expand slightly while cooking.
- If you want an extra touch, you can sprinkle a little extra cheese on top of each ball before baking. It adds a nice cheesy crust!
Cooking Process
- Once your oven is preheated, pop the baking sheet into the oven. Bake the sausage balls for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting one in half; it should no longer be pink inside.
- While the sausage balls are baking, I like to prepare a dipping sauce. A simple mixture of ranch dressing or a spicy mustard works great. You can also serve them with a side of salsa for a fresh kick!
- After 20-25 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes. They will be hot, so be careful not to burn your mouth!
Assembling and Serving
- Once cooled slightly, transfer the sausage balls to a serving platter. I like to arrange them in a circle for a fun presentation, but feel free to get creative!
- Serve the sausage balls warm with your choice of dipping sauce. They are perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in.
- If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Tips and Variations
- If you want to switch things up, try using different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicier flavor or mozzarella for a milder taste.
- For a healthier version, you can substitute turkey sausage for the breakfast sausage. Just be aware
Conclusion:
In summary, these Rotel Sausage Balls are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their snack game. The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and the zesty kick from Rotel creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a holiday gathering, or just craving a delicious treat, these sausage balls are sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. For serving suggestions, I love to pair these delightful bites with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. You can also experiment with variations by adding different types of cheese, spices, or even incorporating some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste preferences. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a picture of your finished dish. Let’s spread the joy of these Rotel Sausage Balls together! Happy cooking! Print
Rotel Sausage Balls: The Ultimate Recipe for a Flavorful Snack
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls 1x
Description
These Spicy Sausage Balls are a flavorful and easy appetizer made with breakfast sausage, cheddar cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes. Perfect for parties or game days, they are sure to please a crowd!
Ingredients
Scale- 1 pound of breakfast sausage (spicy recommended)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of original Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup of milk (optional, for moisture)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well using your hands.
- Add the drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies to the mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the sausage mixture, mixing well after each addition. If the mixture feels too dry, add milk a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls using a small cookie scoop or your hands.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each ball.
- Optionally, sprinkle extra cheese on top of each ball before baking.
- Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare a dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or spicy mustard, while the sausage balls bake.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Transfer the sausage balls to a serving platter and serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Notes
- For a different flavor, try using pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick or mozzarella for a milder taste.
- Substitute turkey sausage for a healthier option, but note that the texture may vary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Leave a Comment