If you’re looking for a warm, cheesy, and irresistibly savory snack that will have everyone reaching for seconds, this Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect as a party appetizer or a cozy comfort food bite, these sausage balls perfectly blend spicy Rotel tomatoes with rich cream cheese and mild cheddar, all wrapped up in tender sausage and a hint of baking mix. Every bite bursts with flavor and that amazing melty texture that’s simply addictive. I promise, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for gatherings or any time you want a deliciously satisfying treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses just a handful of ingredients that come together in the most delightful way. Each one plays a vital role — from the meatiness of the sausage to the creamy, tangy touch of cream cheese, and the subtle kick from the Rotel.
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (mild or spicy): Provides a juicy, flavorful base with your choice of heat level.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): Adds a luscious creaminess that makes the sausage balls tender and rich.
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (well-drained): Brings bright color and a flavorful zest without soggy batter.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Gives a sharp, melty cheesiness that’s absolutely essential.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose baking mix (such as Bisquick): Helps bind everything together and creates a perfectly golden exterior when baked.
How to Make Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Surface
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your sausage balls cook evenly without sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Your Ingredients Thoroughly
In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, well-drained Rotel, shredded cheddar, and baking mix. Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything evenly. It’s important to distribute the ingredients well so every bite has the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Step 3: Shape the Sausage Balls
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the mixture into 1 to 1 ½-inch balls. Place them about an inch apart on your prepared baking sheet. This size is perfect for bite-sized snacks that cook through beautifully.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the sausage balls for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they have a lovely crust on the outside and are firm but tender inside. Let them cool just a bit before serving to keep all the cheesy goodness cozy inside.
How to Serve Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe
Garnishes
While these sausage balls are fantastic on their own, adding fresh garnishes can elevate your presentation and flavor profile. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of green and a hint of freshness. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce adds an exciting spicy kick.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe with simple sides can turn a snack into a full party spread. Crisp celery sticks or sliced cucumbers add a refreshing crunch to balance the richness. For a heartier spread, serve alongside creamy ranch or a tangy salsa dip for guests to dunk in.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving the sausage balls in a decorative bowl lined with lettuce leaves, or skewer a few with cocktail sticks for easy grab-and-go bites. For a festive touch, arrange them on a platter with colorful veggies and dipping sauces arranged around in small ramekins.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (though they rarely last long), keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture so you can enjoy them cold or reheated without disappointment.
Freezing
This Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe freezes beautifully. For best results, freeze the uncooked sausage balls on a tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready, bake straight from frozen, adding about 3 to 5 extra minutes to the baking time. It’s a perfect shortcut for busy days or unexpected guests.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This keeps the exterior crispy while gently melting the cheese inside. Microwaving is quicker but may result in a softer texture, so I recommend oven reheating if you have the time.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground pork sausage is traditional, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter variation. Keep in mind that different types of sausage may alter cooking times slightly and the flavor profile.
Do I have to drain the Rotel before mixing?
Yes, draining the Rotel really makes a difference. Excess liquid can make the mixture soggy and the sausage balls less firm. Just a quick drain ensures the best texture without losing that signature Rotel flavor.
Is there a gluten-free option for the baking mix?
Definitely! You can swap the all-purpose baking mix with a gluten-free baking mix of your choice. Just make sure it’s one that’s designed for baking to maintain the right consistency.
How spicy are sausage balls if I use spicy sausage and Rotel?
The spice level can be moderate to bold depending on your sausage and Rotel choice. If you prefer milder snacks, use mild sausage or drain the Rotel thoroughly to reduce heat. For a spicy kick, go wild with spicy varieties!
Can I prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and bake later?
Yes! You can mix and shape the sausage balls up to 24 hours in advance and keep them chilled in the fridge until baking. This makes party prep quick and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about this Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe that makes it a must-have for snack lovers everywhere. The marriage of creamy cheese, savory sausage, and just the right amount of spice creates a bite-sized explosion of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a game day treat, or just craving something indulgent, these sausage balls never disappoint. Give them a try and watch them disappear in no time!
Print
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 30 sausage balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free baking mix)
Description
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a deliciously cheesy and spicy appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Made with ground pork sausage, softened cream cheese, spicy Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, shredded cheddar cheese, and a versatile baking mix, these golden-brown sausage balls bake to perfection with a tender yet firm texture. Easy to prepare and freezer-friendly, they make a crowd-pleasing snack that’s quick to whip up and full of bold flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (mild or spicy)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, well-drained
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose baking mix (such as Bisquick)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and enable easy cleanup.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, well-drained Rotel tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and baking mix. Use a spoon or your hands to mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed into a consistent dough-like mixture.
- Form Sausage Balls: Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion the mixture into 1 to 1 ½-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet spaced about 1 inch apart to ensure even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown on the outside and cooked thoroughly inside.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure to drain the Rotel tomatoes thoroughly to avoid soggy sausage ball dough.
- You can prep the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- These sausage balls freeze well; freeze the unbaked balls and bake them straight from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes to the baking time.
