If you’re craving a snack that’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion, you’ve got to try these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. Think of them as the ultimate savory bite-sized snack—crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside. They’re the perfect combo of zesty sausage, creamy cheese, and just the right amount of heat from the Rotel tomatoes. Whether you’re hosting a party, need a quick appetizer, or just want to snack on something irresistible, these sausage balls are about to steal the show!
Trust me, they’re as easy to make as they are to devour. Just mix, roll, bake, and enjoy. And if you’re like me, you’ll find it hard to stop after one (or two… or three). Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual snack, a game day gathering, or a cozy evening in, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer for parties or a quick snack any time of day.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry and fridge staples that you probably already have.
Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
Customizable: You can add more heat or switch up the cheese for different flavors.
Crowd-Pleasing: These little bite-sized balls are a huge hit with both kids and adults, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any get-together.
Ingredients in Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Here’s what you need to make these flavorful little bites of goodness:
Breakfast Sausage: The savory, seasoned star of the show that gives these sausage balls their bold flavor.
Cream Cheese: Adds that rich, creamy texture that makes each bite irresistible.
Rotel Tomatoes: These provide a perfect balance of heat and flavor, giving the sausage balls their signature kick.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp, melty, and perfectly cheesy. It binds everything together and adds extra flavor.
Bisquick (or similar baking mix): The key to the perfect texture. It helps bind everything without making the mixture too heavy.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and gives your sausage balls the crispy texture they deserve.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, cream cheese, Rotel tomatoes (drained), shredded cheddar cheese, and Bisquick. Mix until everything is fully incorporated. The cream cheese helps make the mixture super creamy and easy to roll.
Roll into Balls: Using your hands, scoop out the mixture and roll it into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Cook to Perfection: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they’re lightly crispy on the outside.
Finishing Touches: Let them cool for a minute or two after baking, just enough to handle them without burning your fingers (trust me, you’ll want to dive in right away!).
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as an appetizer or snack, and watch them disappear!
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 12 (2 balls per serving)
Calories per serving: ~250
(put them as notes)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
These sausage balls are delicious on their own, but if you want to kick things up a notch, try pairing them with these sides:
- A side of ranch or your favorite dipping sauce for a cool contrast to the heat.
- Serve with a fresh veggie platter or fruit salad for balance.
- Enjoy them with a chilled beverage, like iced tea or a cold beer, to make your snack time extra refreshing.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened so it mixes easily with the other ingredients.
- If you like it spicy, leave a bit of juice from the Rotel tomatoes in the mixture.
- For extra cheesy sausage balls, add a little extra shredded cheddar inside the mix or sprinkle on top before baking.
- You can freeze these sausage balls for later—just bake, cool, and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the oven for a few minutes.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! You can use Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausage.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it overnight before rolling and baking.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
4. Can I freeze these?
Yes! Freeze the sausage balls after baking, and then reheat them in the oven or microwave.
5. What can I dip them in?
They’re great with ranch, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
6. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with low-fat cream cheese if you prefer.
7. How can I make them spicier?
Add jalapeños, extra Rotel, or some hot sauce to the mixture for more heat.
8. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Just use a gluten-free baking mix like Bisquick’s gluten-free version.
9. How do I know when they’re done?
They should be golden brown on the outside, and the sausage should be fully cooked inside.
10. Can I make these in advance for a party?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage balls in advance and freeze them. Then, just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect snack for any occasion. They’re easy, cheesy, and full of flavor—exactly what you want when you need something tasty and satisfying. Serve them at your next party, game day, or family gathering, and watch them fly off the plate. Enjoy!
Print
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 20min
- Total Time: 30min
- Yield: 24balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a flavorful twist on the classic appetizer. Combining spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies, they’re perfect for parties, brunches, or as a savory snack. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) hot breakfast sausage, uncooked
– 1 (8 oz / 227g) package cream cheese, softened
– 1 (10 oz / 283g) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
– 1½ cups (180g) Bisquick or baking mix
– 2 cups (225g) shredded Mexican cheese blend
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel, Bisquick, and shredded Mexican cheese.
3. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. You can use your hands or a stand mixer for easier mixing.
4. Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the balls are golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
– For a milder version, use mild sausage and omit the spicy Rotel.
– These sausage balls can be made ahead and frozen. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
– Serve with a side of ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1ball
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 30mg
- Cholesterol: 25mg