Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls (Printer-Friendly)

Spicy pork and zesty Rotel blend with creamy cheese in these irresistible bite-sized balls for parties.

# What You’ll Need to Cook:

→ Meat and Dairy

01 - 1 pound ground hot pork sausage with cayenne, black pepper, and red pepper flakes
02 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
03 - 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, Asadero)

→ Vegetables and Mix-ins

04 - 10 ounces Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, well drained
05 - 2 green onions, chopped

→ Baking Mix

06 - 2 cups Bisquick baking mix

# Steps to Prepare:

01 - Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - Beat cream cheese until smooth and lump-free, scraping bowl as needed.
03 - Mix ground sausage by hand until mostly combined. Add drained Rotel, Bisquick, shredded cheese, and green onions. Gently fold until evenly mixed.
04 - Portion mixture into 1-inch walnut-sized balls and place on prepared baking sheets.
05 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
06 - Cool for a few minutes before serving warm with preferred dipping sauces.

# Extra Cooking Tips:

01 - Set cream cheese out for 20 to 30 minutes before mixing to ensure softness.
02 - Drain Rotel thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in mixture.
03 - Shape balls uniformly using a cookie scoop or scale for even baking.
04 - Chill mixture before shaping if too sticky or soft for easier handling.
05 - Prepare mixture a day ahead and refrigerate or freeze for convenience.