Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect combination of savory, creamy, and slightly spicy flavors — a bite-sized treat that never fails to impress. These sausage balls are soft on the inside, golden and slightly crisp on the outside, and loaded with the irresistible flavors of sausage, Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, and cream cheese. They make an excellent choice for parties, potlucks, game-day snacks, or even as a quick appetizer before dinner. Every bite delivers a burst of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.
About the Recipe
This recipe is a delicious twist on the classic sausage ball recipe that many of us grew up loving. The addition of cream cheese gives these sausage balls a rich and velvety texture, while the Rotel tomatoes add a mild spice and a touch of tanginess that perfectly balances the creamy flavor. It’s one of those dishes that feels homemade and comforting but still fancy enough to serve at a gathering. Best of all, they’re incredibly simple to make with only a few ingredients and minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and quick to prepare: No special equipment or complicated steps required. Mix, roll, and bake.
- Perfect for any occasion: These sausage balls are ideal for holidays, family gatherings, and weekend get-togethers.
- Creamy and flavorful: The combination of cream cheese and cheddar ensures every bite is moist and full of cheesy goodness.
- Freezer-friendly: You can prepare and bake them in advance, then freeze for later use without losing flavor or texture.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls:
- 1 pound ground sausage – Use mild or spicy sausage depending on your flavor preference. Spicy adds an extra kick.
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies – Be sure to drain well to prevent excess moisture in the mixture.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Adds creaminess and helps bind everything together.
- 1 ½ cups Bisquick baking mix – Acts as the base that holds the sausage balls together while providing a light, fluffy texture.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can use a blend for variety.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, drained Rotel tomatoes, and softened cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Add the Bisquick baking mix and shredded cheddar cheese to the sausage mixture. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture will be thick and sticky — using your hands to mix works best.
- Once mixed, roll the dough into small, bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes them easier to handle.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls
- Drain the Rotel thoroughly: Extra liquid will make the mixture too soft to roll. Press out excess moisture with a paper towel if needed.
- Soften the cream cheese: It should be at room temperature to mix easily with the sausage.
- Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture and melting quality.
- Make ahead: You can form the balls a day ahead and refrigerate them. When ready, bake as directed.
- Freezer option: After baking, allow the sausage balls to cool completely. Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
These sausage balls are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces. Serve them with ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a spicy cheese dip for a more indulgent flavor. They’re perfect for brunch tables, family movie nights, or as appetizers at a party. You can even serve them with scrambled eggs and toast for a hearty breakfast spread.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. You can also use an air fryer to restore their crispy edges. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these without Bisquick?
Yes! You can substitute Bisquick with a homemade mix of flour, baking powder, salt, and a little shortening or butter. Use 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt.
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken sausage works great for a lighter version. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly since they tend to cook faster than pork sausage.
Can these be made in an air fryer?
Yes. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and cook the sausage balls in batches for about 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Conclusion
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect appetizer when you need something quick, crowd-pleasing, and full of flavor. The combination of spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and tangy Rotel creates a perfectly balanced bite that everyone loves. Whether served at a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or as a simple weekend snack, these sausage balls are guaranteed to be a hit. Once you make them, you’ll understand why they’re often the first thing to disappear from the table.
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