1. Prepare the Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Mix Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the raw sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel, shredded cheddar cheese, and Bisquick.
- Mix thoroughly with a spoon or your hands until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Shape the Balls
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
4. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and fully cooked.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for doneness.
5. Serve
- Serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or marinara sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
- Let sausage balls cool completely before storing.
- Place in an airtight container or resealable bag and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Arrange uncooked sausage balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
- Reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to maintain texture.
- Alternatively, microwave for 30–60 seconds until warmed through.
Variations and Tips
Flavor Variations
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Colby.
- Spice It Up: Use hot sausage, add cayenne pepper, or mix in diced jalapeños.
- Herbs and Seasonings: Add parsley, thyme, garlic powder, or onion powder for extra flavor.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Finely chop spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
