Irresistible Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: The Ultimate Party Appetizer

When it comes to game day snacks, holiday spreads, or easy make-ahead appetizers, Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are always a crowd-pleaser. They’re bite-sized, cheesy, spicy, and loaded with savory flavor. The addition of cream cheese makes them softer and more indulgent than traditional sausage balls, while Rotel adds a zesty kick of tomatoes and green chilies.

Whether you’re serving these for brunch, tailgates, or holiday parties, this recipe is easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and delivers big flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for parties: Easy to make in big batches and serve with dipping sauces.

• Crowd-friendly: A fun finger food that both kids and adults love.

• Versatile: Works as a snack, appetizer, or even a breakfast-on-the-go.

• Customizable heat: Use mild sausage and original Rotel for balance, or go spicy with hot sausage and Rotel Hot.

Ingredients for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this addictive snack:

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground pork sausage – Choose mild or spicy depending on your heat preference.

• 8 ounces cream cheese – Softened at room temperature for easy mixing.

• 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies – Drain well to prevent soggy sausage balls.

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar is best for bold flavor.

• 1 ½ cups Bisquick or all-purpose baking mix – Helps bind everything together.

Optional Add-Ins (for extra flavor)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Pinch of cayenne pepper (for added heat)

• Fresh chopped parsley (garnish)

Dipping Sauces (optional but highly recommended)

• Ranch dressing

• Spicy chipotle mayo

• Honey mustard

• Queso dip

Step-by-Step Instructions Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

• Set cream cheese out at room temperature so it softens.

• Drain Rotel tomatoes thoroughly. Excess liquid will affect the texture.

Step 2: Mix the Base

• In a large bowl, combine sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel, cheddar cheese, and Bisquick.

• Use your hands to mix until fully incorporated.

• Pro tip: If mixture feels too wet, add more Bisquick. Too dry? Add 1 tablespoon milk or heavy cream.

Step 3: Form the Balls

• Roll mixture into 1-inch bite-sized balls.

• Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Let cool for 3–4 minutes.

• Serve warm with dipping sauces.

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Tips for the Best Sausage Balls

• Drain Rotel well – Pat dry with paper towels if necessary.

• Mix by hand – Hands incorporate ingredients better than a spoon.

• Don’t overbake – Watch closely to keep them moist inside.

• Freeze ahead – Form balls, freeze on a tray, then store in freezer bags. Bake directly from frozen (add 5 extra minutes).

Variations You Can Try Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

• Spicy Kick: Use hot sausage and add extra cayenne or jalapeños.

• Breakfast Version: Swap cheddar for pepper jack and serve with scrambled eggs.

• Low-Carb Option: Replace Bisquick with almond flour + ½ tsp baking powder.

• Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.

Serving Suggestions

These sausage balls are versatile and pair well with:

• A brunch spread (add fruit and muffins).

• Game day platters (chips, dips, sliders).

• Holiday parties with cheese boards and finger foods.

• As a quick snack or breakfast with a side of eggs.

Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Freeze uncooked sausage balls for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Warm in oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes or air fryer for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving (makes them soggy).

Nutrition Information (per serving – about 3 sausage balls)

• Calories: ~280

• Protein: 11g

• Fat: 21g

• Carbohydrates: 9g

• Fiber: 1g

People Also Ask (PAA)

1. Can I make Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day before. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

2. Do you have to use Bisquick?
No. You can use any all-purpose baking mix or even substitute with flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

3. Can these be cooked in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking once halfway.

4. What’s the best way to freeze sausage balls?
Freeze them raw on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags. Bake straight from frozen when needed.

5. Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Yes! Ground turkey sausage works well, but the texture will be slightly leaner.

Final Thoughts Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a must-have recipe for anyone who loves easy, cheesy, bite-sized snacks. With their bold flavors, creamy texture, and versatility, they fit perfectly at parties, potlucks, game nights, and even breakfast tables.

Once you try them, you’ll want to keep a batch in your freezer for those moments when you need a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer.

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