1 pound ground turkey sausage or beef breakfast sausage
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained very well
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups biscuit baking mix
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Ensure your cream cheese is soft enough to blend easily with the other ingredients.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey or beef sausage, softened cream cheese, and the well-drained diced tomatoes and green chilies. It is helpful to use a stand mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon to ensure the cream cheese is fully incorporated into the meat without any large white streaks remaining.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder to the bowl. Gradually fold in the biscuit baking mix. Continue to mix until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix, as this can make the balls tough, but ensure the floury bits are all hydrated by the moisture from the meat and cheese.
Scoop about one tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll it between your palms to form a ball roughly one inch in diameter. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. You should end up with approximately 30 to 35 balls depending on the size.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. They are done when they are golden brown on the outside and the sausage is cooked through. Let them rest on the pan for about five minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.
