Cheesy Sausage Bites with Rotel

Savory, cheesy, and packed with a spicy kick, these Cheesy Sausage Bites with Rotel are the perfect appetizer or snack for parties, game days, or cozy nights in. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sausage, cheese, and Rotel brings bold and irresistible taste.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and minimal prep, these bites come together quickly.
• Customizable Spice Level: Easily adjust the heat to your liking with spicy sausage or extra chili.
• Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a hearty breakfast side.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 1/2 cups Bisquick mix (or any pancake/baking mix)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Optional: hot sauce or ranch dressing for dipping

Directions

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. Combine Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick mix, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and drained Rotel. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Shape the Bites
   Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands or a small cookie scoop. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
4. Bake
   Bake the sausage bites in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Let the bites cool slightly before serving. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing or hot sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Extra Spicy: Use hot sausage, add chili flakes, or incorporate diced jalapeños into the mixture.
• Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Boost: Add chopped fresh parsley, chives, or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free baking mix in place of Bisquick.
• Mini Muffin Bites: Press the mixture into mini muffin tins for a fun twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Let the sausage bites cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked sausage bites on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken sausage can be substituted, though the flavor profile may change slightly.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the sausage bites and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.

3. What is Rotel?

Rotel is a brand of canned diced tomatoes and green chilies. You can substitute with any similar product if unavailable.

4. How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?

Lightly grease your hands with cooking spray or oil before shaping the balls.

5. Can I make them smaller or larger?

Yes, adjust the size as needed, but note that the cooking time may vary.

6. Are these bites spicy?

They have a mild kick from the Rotel and paprika. Use mild sausage and omit paprika for a milder flavor.

7. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, but ensure it’s crumbled and fully incorporated with the other ingredients.

8. What’s the best dipping sauce?

Ranch dressing, hot sauce, or a creamy chipotle sauce pairs wonderfully with these bites.

9. How do I know they’re fully cooked?

The sausage bites should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

10. Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Conclusion

Cheesy Sausage Bites with Rotel are a must-have recipe for parties, game days, or casual snacking. With their savory flavor, gooey cheese, and customizable spice level, they’re sure to disappear quickly from the table. Give this easy recipe a try and watch these irresistible bites become a crowd favorite!

Cheesy Sausage Bites with Rotel

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• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Delight your guests with these Cheesy Sausage Bites made with Rotel! These savory and cheesy appetizers have a spicy kick and are perfect for parties, game day, or snacking.

 

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups Bisquick mix (or any pancake/baking mix)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Optional: hot sauce or ranch dressing for dipping

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven:
  Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease lightly.
• Prepare the mixture:
  In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick mix, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and drained Rotel. Mix until well blended.
• Shape the sausage balls:
  Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
• Bake the bites:
  Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and fully cooked through.
• Serve:
  Allow the sausage bites to cool slightly before serving. Pair them with ranch dressing, hot sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.

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Notes

• Use spicy sausage for a bolder flavor or add extra chili powder to the mix for a fiery kick.
• These bites can be made ahead of time and reheated for convenience.