Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure with these mouthwatering Rotel Sausage Balls! Perfect for gatherings, game days, or even a cozy movie night, these savory bites are bursting with flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The combination of juicy sausage, rich sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of spice from Rotel tomatoes makes for a truly irresistible snack. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Bisquick mix
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 sausage balls
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), letting it warm up while you prepare the mixture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and Bisquick mix. The cheese should be well incorporated with the sausage to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Next, stir in the drained Rotel diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you enjoy a bit of heat!).
- Using your hands, mix everything together until all ingredients are evenly combined, creating a cohesive and fragrant mixture.
- Now, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This step is where the fun begins!
- Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make it hard to wait!
- Once done, remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Trust us, they are best enjoyed warm!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Pepper jack adds a lovely kick.
- If you like a burst of freshness, sprinkle in some finely chopped green onions or peppers.
- These sausage balls can be frozen before baking. Just thaw and pop them in the oven whenever a snack craving strikes!
Cooking Techniques
Mixing the ingredients thoroughly ensures each sausage ball is perfectly seasoned and cheesy. Using a baking sheet lined with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes for an easy clean-up. Don’t skimp on the browning; it gives these bites their delicious flavor and appealing appearance!
FAQ
Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape them into balls ahead of time; just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.
What can I serve with these sausage balls?
They pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch or a spicy salsa. You can even place them on a platter with fresh veggies for a colorful appetizer spread.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their delightful crispiness!
Conclusion
These Rotel Sausage Balls are not just easy to make, but they are also a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. With their cheesy goodness and a hint of spice, they are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating these delectable bites. Happy cooking!