If you are on the hunt for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s bursting with flavor and irresistibly cheesy, then the ROTEL Sausage Balls with Cheez Whiz Recipe is your new best friend. These bite-sized delights blend spicy, savory sausage with the unmistakable tang of ROTEL tomatoes and the creamy, melty goodness of Cheez Whiz for an unforgettable appetizer everyone will be reaching for again and again. Whether you’re planning a party, game day snack, or family gathering, these sausage balls deliver big on taste and are surprisingly easy to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This ROTEL Sausage Balls with Cheez Whiz Recipe keeps things wonderfully simple but each component plays a star role in building its amazing taste and texture. From the moistness and spice of the sausage to the cheesy tang and fluffy binding power of the biscuit mix, every ingredient matters.
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (mild or spicy): The savory, juicy base providing richness and just the right amount of spice depending on your choice.
- 1 10-ounce can ROTEL diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained well): Adds a zesty kick and vibrant color, plus a little fresh tomato flavor that brightens up the dish.
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix (like Bisquick): Acts as the binder, giving these balls their soft yet sturdy texture perfect for baking.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharpness balances the spiciness and melts into cozy pockets of cheesy bliss.
- 1/2 cup Cheez Whiz: This secret weapon brings creamy smoothness and that iconic cheesy tang, making these sausage balls extra decadent.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a subtle depth of flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory profile and pairs perfectly with the garlic powder.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to pull all the flavors together in harmony.
How to Make ROTEL Sausage Balls with Cheez Whiz Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Be sure to drain your can of ROTEL tomatoes well to avoid soggy sausage balls.
Step 2: Mix Everything Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork sausage, well-drained ROTEL tomatoes, biscuit baking mix, shredded sharp cheddar, Cheez Whiz, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly with your hands or a sturdy spoon until the ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture starts to hold together easily. If the Cheez Whiz and sausage are cold, letting them sit at room temperature can make mixing a breeze.
Step 3: Form the Sausage Balls
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This size ensures they cook evenly and are perfect for dipping and grabbing at any party.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the formed sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet with a little space between each one. Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. The aroma that fills your kitchen is the perfect signal that these sausage balls are almost ready to enjoy!
Step 5: Let Cool Slightly
Allow the sausage balls to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle without sacrificing any of their juicy goodness.
How to Serve ROTEL Sausage Balls with Cheez Whiz Recipe
Garnishes
While these sausage balls are delicious on their own, adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives not only adds a pop of color but complements the spicy, cheesy flavors beautifully. A dash of smoked paprika or a drizzle of honey mustard can also elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
Pair your ROTEL Sausage Balls with Cheez Whiz Recipe alongside cool ranch dressing or a spicy sriracha mayo for dipping. They also go perfectly with simple sides like crunchy celery sticks or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party display, arrange your sausage balls on a platter with toothpicks stuck in each one for easy grabbing. You can also skewer them alternating with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves for a colorful appetizer kabob that shows off their vibrant flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any sausage balls left (though they rarely last), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They retain their moisture well and taste great cold or reheated.
Freezing
This ROTEL Sausage Balls with Cheez Whiz Recipe is freezer-friendly. Simply place uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a ziplock bag or freezer container. Bake them straight from frozen at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes whenever you want a warm, cheesy snack in a flash.
Reheating
To reheat, pop leftover sausage balls in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or microwave in short bursts until warmed through. They maintain their flavor and gooey texture perfectly with minimal fuss.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative and works well in this recipe, though it may produce a slightly different texture and flavor. Just make sure it’s well seasoned.
Is Cheez Whiz essential, or can I substitute it?
Cheez Whiz brings a unique creamy tang that really sets this recipe apart, but if you don’t have it, cream cheese or another processed cheese spread can work as a substitute, though the flavor profile will change a bit.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the biscuit baking mix for a gluten-free variety to keep the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive friends without sacrificing texture.
How spicy are these sausage balls?
The spice level depends on the sausage you choose and the ROTEL variety. Using mild sausage and mild ROTEL will give you a gentle warmth, while spicy versions kick things up a notch.
What’s the best way to ensure these balls hold together?
Make sure your Cheez Whiz and sausage are at room temperature for easier mixing, and don’t skip the biscuit baking mix, as it provides the essential structure for the balls to hold shape during baking.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this ROTEL Sausage Balls with Cheez Whiz Recipe, you’ll have a new go-to appetizer that’s simple, satisfying, and seriously addicting. From game days to casual get-togethers, these sausage balls bring comforting, cheesy goodness with a zesty twist that never fails to impress. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to fill your kitchen with delicious aromas and fill your friends and family with joy!
Print
ROTEL Sausage Balls with Cheez Whiz Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 30 sausage balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious ROTEL Sausage Balls made with ground pork sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy Cheez Whiz, enhanced with diced tomatoes and green chilies for a spicy kick. Perfect as a party appetizer or game day snack, these golden-baked sausage balls are flavorful, easy to prepare, and sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 10-ounce can ROTEL diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained well
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix (like Bisquick)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Cheez Whiz
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, well-drained ROTEL diced tomatoes with green chilies, biscuit baking mix, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, Cheez Whiz, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Thoroughly mix all ingredients until they are well incorporated into a uniform mixture.
- Form Sausage Balls: Scoop portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place these balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to allow for even cooking.
- Bake: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the sausage balls to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm and paired nicely with ranch dressing or a spicy dipping sauce.
Notes
- For easier mixing, allow the sausage and Cheez Whiz to come to room temperature before combining.
- These sausage balls can be made ahead of time and frozen. To serve, bake from frozen at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Serve with ranch dressing or a spicy dipping sauce for added flavor.
