Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

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Introduction

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the ultimate savory appetizer that packs bold, zesty flavor into every bite. These bite-sized delights combine creamy cheese, spicy sausage, and the tangy kick of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, creating a perfect balance of heat, richness, and savoriness. Easy to prepare and always a crowd favorite, these sausage balls are ideal for holiday gatherings, game days, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving a flavorful snack.

The first time I made these, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. Mixing the sausage with cream cheese, shredded cheese, Rotel, and a touch of seasoning felt effortless, and rolling them into bite-sized portions was surprisingly fun. As they baked, the irresistible aroma of spices, cheese, and sausage filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in anticipation.

What I love most about Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls is their versatility. They’re perfect on their own but also pair wonderfully with a side of ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or even a sweet chili sauce for dipping. You can customize them by adding chopped jalapeños for extra heat or swapping in different types of cheese to suit your taste. No matter how you make them, these sausage balls are a guaranteed hit that’ll have everyone reaching for more!

Perfect for:

  • Holiday parties
  • Game day snacks
  • Potluck appetizers
  • Breakfast or brunch spreads
  • Quick, crowd-pleasing finger food

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls will become your go-to recipe:

  • Packed with Flavor: The combination of spicy sausage, tangy Rotel, and creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
  • Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these sausage balls are quick and hassle-free.
  • Versatile Dish: Perfect for appetizers, breakfast, or even as a hearty snack.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and bake them when needed.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: These savory bites are always a hit at parties and gatherings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 40 sausage balls (approximately)
  • Calories per serving: 80-100 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 2g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls:

  • 1 lb spicy breakfast sausage (uncooked)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 ½ cups Bisquick or all-purpose baking mix
  • Optional: Ranch dressing or spicy mayo for dipping

Ingredient Highlights

  • Spicy Breakfast Sausage: Adds a bold and savory flavor to the sausage balls. Use mild sausage if preferred.
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a rich, creamy texture and balances the spice.
  • Rotel Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Brings a tangy, slightly spicy kick to the recipe.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp, cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sausage.
  • Bisquick or Baking Mix: Helps bind the ingredients together and creates the perfect texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Sausage Mixture:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Drain the Rotel: Drain the can of Rotel thoroughly to remove excess liquid.
  3. Mix Sausage and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked sausage and softened cream cheese until well blended.
  4. Add Rotel and Cheese: Stir in the drained Rotel and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
  5. Incorporate Baking Mix: Gradually add the Bisquick or baking mix, mixing until fully combined. The mixture will be thick and slightly sticky.

Form the Sausage Balls:

  1. Shape into Balls: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Bake the Sausage Balls:

  1. Bake Until Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
  2. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and allow the sausage balls to cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve

  • Classic Platter: Arrange the sausage balls on a large serving plate with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
  • With Dipping Sauces: Pair them with ranch, honey mustard, spicy aioli, or marinara sauce for added flavor options.
  • On a Charcuterie Board: Incorporate them into a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, crackers, pickles, and sliced fruits.
  • In Mini Slider Buns: Slice the sausage balls in half and serve in mini buns for bite-sized sliders.
  • As a Party Skewer: Thread sausage balls onto skewers with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves for a colorful appetizer.
  • With a Breakfast Spread: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, hash browns, and biscuits for a hearty brunch.
  • Over Pasta or Rice: Use them as a topping for creamy pasta or a bed of rice for a quick dinner idea.
  • In a Bread Bowl: Place the sausage balls inside a hollowed-out bread bowl, surrounded by pieces of bread for dipping.
  • With a Salad: Add them to a fresh garden salad as a warm, savory protein topping.
  • As a Game-Day Snack: Serve them in a warming dish with a side of Rotel queso for dipping during sports watch parties.

Additional Tips

  • Soften the Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave it for 10-15 seconds.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense texture.
  • Chill the Mixture: If the mixture is too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before rolling into balls.
  • Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded, packaged cheese.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and freeze them unbaked. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Recipe Variations

  1. Mild Sausage Balls: Use mild sausage instead of spicy for a less fiery version.
  2. Mexican-Style: Add taco seasoning and use pepper jack cheese for a Tex-Mex twist.
  3. Bacon-Cheddar Sausage Balls: Mix in crumbled cooked bacon for extra smoky flavor.
  4. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free baking mix to make the recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
  5. Jalapeño Sausage Balls: Add finely diced jalapeños for an extra spicy kick.
  6. Garlic Herb Sausage Balls: Incorporate minced garlic and Italian seasoning for a flavorful twist.
  7. Cheddar Ranch Sausage Balls: Add a packet of dry ranch seasoning to the mixture for a tangy flavor.
  8. Vegetable Sausage Balls: Mix in finely diced bell peppers or onions for added texture and flavor.
  9. Cheese Blend Sausage Balls: Use a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan for a cheesy variation.
  10. Air Fryer Sausage Balls: Cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Arrange unbaked sausage balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen.
  • Storage: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Special Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the sausage, cream cheese, Rotel, and other ingredients evenly.
  • Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: A stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer can make mixing the thick dough easier.
  • Rubber Spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed.
  • Cookie Scoop: Use a medium-sized cookie scoop for evenly portioned sausage balls.
  • Baking Sheet: A sturdy, non-stick baking sheet is essential for baking the sausage balls.
  • Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
  • Meat Thermometer: Helpful for checking that the internal temperature of the sausage balls reaches a safe 160°F (71°C).
  • Wire Cooling Rack: Allows the sausage balls to cool evenly after baking.
  • Food Processor (Optional): To finely chop any additional add-ins, like jalapeños or herbs, for a smoother texture.
  • Air Fryer (Optional): A great alternative to baking if you want crispy sausage balls quickly without turning on the oven.

FAQ

  1. Can I use pre-cooked sausage? No, raw sausage is recommended as it cooks during baking and helps bind the mixture together.
  2. Can I freeze them after baking? Yes, baked sausage balls can be frozen and reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
  3. Can I make them ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mixture or roll the balls a day in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to bake.
  4. Can I substitute Rotel? If you don’t have Rotel, use a combination of diced tomatoes and canned green chilies.
  5. What’s the best dipping sauce? Ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or honey mustard are all great choices for dipping.

Conclusion

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a savory, cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tender texture and bold flavor, these bite-sized treats are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them at a party, adding them to a brunch spread, or enjoying them as a quick snack, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends.

This recipe is quick to prepare and easily customizable—mix in your favorite herbs, spices, or cheese varieties to make them your own. Serve them warm with a dipping sauce like ranch, spicy mustard, or marinara for an extra burst of flavor. No matter the occasion, these sausage balls are sure to disappear in no time!

I’d love to see your take on this classic recipe! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I can’t wait to see how you customize yours. Don’t forget to share your tips and ideas in the comments. Happy cooking!

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