If you love bold, comforting flavors wrapped in golden, flaky dough, you are going to adore this Rotel Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites Recipe. These little bites bring together spicy breakfast sausage, zesty Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, and smooth cream cheese for a flavor explosion that’s perfect for snacking, parties, or anytime munching. Each bite is a perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and savory that melts in your mouth and keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—every ingredient plays a key role in delivering that irresistible taste and perfect texture. From the spicy sausage to the creamy filling and fluffy biscuit dough, these ingredients blend together effortlessly to create a snack you won’t be able to put down.
- 1 lb spicy breakfast sausage: Adds a savory, spicy base that gives these bites their hearty flavor.
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained: Brings a zesty kick and vibrant color to the mixture.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Provides creamy richness that balances out the spice perfectly.
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (8-count): Creates the golden, pillowy shell that wraps around the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth of flavor enhancing the sausage and tomato blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a mild sweetness and savory note to the filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Offers a delicate smoky flavor that takes the spice up a notch.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and light herbal aroma to finish the bites beautifully.
How to Make Rotel Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Surface
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly grease a muffin tin for easy cleanup and perfect baking.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the spicy breakfast sausage until fully browned, making sure to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain the excess grease to keep the bites from being too oily.
Step 3: Combine the Filling Ingredients
Stir the drained Rotel diced tomatoes and softened cream cheese into the cooked sausage until the cream cheese melts and everything is well combined. Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika if using, then allow it to cool slightly to make handling easier.
Step 4: Prepare the Biscuit Dough
Open the refrigerated biscuit dough and separate it into individual biscuits. Cut each biscuit in half to create 16 pieces. Flatten each piece into a 3-inch circle using your hands or a rolling pin, giving you the perfect base to enclose the filling.
Step 5: Assemble the Bites
Place about 1 tablespoon of the sausage and cream cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold the edges up around the filling, pinching the dough tightly to seal each ball so none of the delicious filling escapes during baking.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place each sealed ball seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet or in the muffin tin. Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until the biscuits are golden brown and puffed up beautifully.
Step 7: Garnish and Cool
Once baked, remove the bites from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish that makes these bite-sized delights irresistible.
How to Serve Rotel Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the classic chopped parsley, try adding a small dollop of sour cream or a light drizzle of hot sauce on top to amp up the flavor and add a bit of creamy or spicy contrast. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese right after baking can also be amazing.
Side Dishes
These flavorful bites pair beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides like a crunchy coleslaw or a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. For a cozy comfort food combo, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or roasted veggies that soak up every last bit of sausage goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn them into party favorites by arranging the Rotel Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites Recipe on a wooden board alongside an assortment of dipping sauces such as ranch, chipotle mayo, or honey mustard. Alternatively, serve them inside mini slider buns as spicy breakfast sliders or nest them in lettuce cups for a low-carb, handheld treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and chances are you will), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay delicious and moist for 3 to 4 days, making for easy snacks or quick meals during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze these bites either before baking or after they’re fully cooled. To freeze before baking, assemble as usual and freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag; bake from frozen adding a few extra minutes. For freezing after baking, cool completely and freeze in a single layer before storing in a container to avoid sticking.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers, reheat baked bites in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the biscuit crust crispy and fresh-tasting.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While spicy breakfast sausage gives the perfect kick, you can substitute with mild sausage or even ground turkey for a lighter version. Just adjust seasonings to maintain that flavorful balance.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
Yes! You can swap the sausage for plant-based sausage crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers to create a tasty vegetarian version that still delivers plenty of savory goodness.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Definitely. The sausage and cream cheese filling can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before assembling your bites for easier handling.
What if I don’t have refrigerated biscuit dough?
You can use homemade biscuit dough or even crescent roll dough as a substitute. Just keep an eye on the baking time since the dough texture and thickness may vary.
How spicy are these bites?
The spiciness mainly comes from the spicy sausage and Rotel tomatoes with green chilies. If you prefer less heat, use mild sausage and a mild version of Rotel or regular diced tomatoes for a gentler flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
This Rotel Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make yet impressive at any gathering. Its blend of spicy, creamy, and crispy elements creates the perfect bite every time. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a flavorful snack, these bites will become your go-to recipe that friends and family will keep asking for. Go ahead, dive in, and enjoy every delicious moment!
Print
Rotel Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These irresistibly easy Rotel Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites are a flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings or snacks. Made with spicy breakfast sausage, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and creamy cheese, wrapped in flaky biscuit dough, and baked to golden perfection, they deliver a deliciously spicy and creamy bite every time.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 lb spicy breakfast sausage
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Dough & Garnish
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (8-count)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or grease a muffin tin to prevent sticking.
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet set over medium heat, cook the spicy breakfast sausage thoroughly, breaking it apart as it cooks until fully browned. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep the bites from being greasy.
- Mix Filling: To the cooked sausage in the skillet, add the drained Rotel diced tomatoes and softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts fully and the mixture is evenly blended. Season this filling with garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika if using. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Prepare Dough: Separate the refrigerated biscuit dough into individual biscuits. Cut each biscuit in half to create 16 pieces total. Flatten each piece gently with your hands or a rolling pin into approximately 3-inch circles.
- Assemble Bites: Place about 1 tablespoon of the sausage mixture into the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold the edges up and pinch the dough tightly to seal all the filling inside, forming a small ball.
- Arrange for Baking: Position each sealed dough ball seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet or place them inside the greased muffin cups for even shape and ease of baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bites are puffed up and golden brown on the outside.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley for freshness and serve warm to enjoy the creamy, spicy filling at its best.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the cooked sausage to avoid greasy bites.
- To make it less spicy, use mild sausage or reduce the amount of Rotel chilies.
- These bites can be served with dipping sauces such as ranch or a spicy ketchup for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.
- Using muffin tins helps maintain the shape during baking but is optional.
