Easy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe

Hi I'm Benjamin

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 27, 2025

Few party snacks can compete with the savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy goodness of Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. Whether you’re hosting a game-day gathering, a holiday party, or simply craving a quick and flavorful bite, this dish delivers a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and texture.

These bite-sized sausage balls combine ground sausage, tangy cream cheese, zesty Rotel tomatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and a light biscuit-like texture from Bisquick. The result? A dish that’s bold in flavor, incredibly satisfying, and almost too easy to eat.

From crispy edges to a soft, cheesy center, these sausage balls will disappear from the platter before you can even grab a second helping.

Why You’ll Love Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

1. Quick and Easy to Make

With just five ingredients and a few simple steps, these sausage balls come together effortlessly. No complicated techniques—just mix, roll, and bake.

2. A Perfect Balance of Flavors

The combination of spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and tangy Rotel tomatoes creates an irresistible taste. Each bite delivers a savory depth with a slight kick, making them ideal for those who enjoy bold, Southern-inspired flavors.

3. Versatile for Any Occasion

These sausage balls aren’t just for parties. They work well as:

A game-day snack for tailgating or Super Bowl parties.
A holiday appetizer to impress guests.
A breakfast side dish alongside eggs and toast.
A protein-packed snack for meal prepping.

4. Freezer-Friendly for Meal Prep

You can make a batch ahead of time and freeze them—perfect for quick appetizers, snacks, or even a last-minute breakfast.

5. Highly Customizable

This recipe is a great base for experimentation. You can adjust the spice level, swap cheeses, or add extra mix-ins for a personalized touch.

Ingredients

For the Sausage Balls:

1 pound ground sausage (hot or mild) – Adds bold flavor and spice.
8 ounces cream cheese, softened – Creates a rich, creamy texture.
1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained – Adds a tangy, slightly spicy kick.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar works best for maximum flavor.
2 cups Bisquick or a similar baking mix – Helps bind everything together for a biscuit-like texture.

Optional Dipping Sauces:

Ranch dressing
Spicy mayo
Honey mustard
Marinara sauce
BBQ sauce

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel, shredded cheddar, and Bisquick.
Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Form the Sausage Balls

Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let cool for a few minutes, then serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Sausage Ball – Approximate):

Calories: 110
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 0g
Sodium: 180mg

Secrets to Making the Best Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Sausage

The quality of your ground sausage makes a huge difference. Opt for fresh sausage rather than pre-cooked varieties, as fresh sausage binds better and delivers maximum flavor.

2. Drain the Rotel Well

Rotel tomatoes come packed with liquid, which can make the mixture too wet. Drain them thoroughly before adding them to the mix to ensure the sausage balls hold their shape.

3. Don’t Overmix the Dough

Overworking the mixture can lead to dense, tough sausage balls. Mix the ingredients until just combined to maintain a light, tender texture.

For uniform sausage balls, use a small cookie scoop. This ensures even cooking and a consistent, professional look.

5. Let Them Cool Slightly Before Serving

Straight out of the oven, the cheese is extremely hot. Letting the sausage balls rest for a few minutes ensures you won’t burn your mouth while allowing the flavors to settle.

Creative Variations to Try

1. Extra Spicy Sausage Balls

If you love heat, try:

Using hot sausage instead of mild.
Adding diced jalapeños to the mix.
Mixing in red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

2. Cheesy Stuffed Sausage Balls

For a gooey, cheesy center:

Stuff each sausage ball with a small cube of cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella).

3. Keto-Friendly Sausage Balls

For a low-carb version:

Replace Bisquick with almond flour (about 1 ½ cups) and add 1 teaspoon of baking powder.

4. Gluten-Free Option

Swap out the Bisquick for a gluten-free baking mix or almond flour for a grain-free version.

5. Herb & Garlic Infused Sausage Balls

For extra savory depth:

Add minced garlic and chopped fresh parsley or chives to the mixture.

Best Ways to Serve Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

These sausage balls are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right dipping sauces and sides elevates them to the next level.

1. Dipping Sauce Ideas

Classic Ranch Dressing – A cooling contrast to the spiciness.
Spicy Mayo – A mix of mayo and sriracha for extra heat.
Honey Mustard – A tangy and sweet complement to the savory sausage.
Marinara Sauce – Adds an Italian twist.
BBQ Sauce – Smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet.

2. Side Dishes That Pair Well

Scrambled eggs and toast – For a hearty breakfast.
Cheese and cracker platter – For a party appetizer spread.
Fresh fruit – A refreshing contrast to the richness.

3. Presentation Ideas for Parties

Serve on a wooden board with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
Arrange with fresh herbs and cheese cubes for a more elegant display.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked or baked sausage balls for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat

Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts until warm.
Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 5 minutes for a crispy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I Cook These in an Air Fryer?

Absolutely! Air fry at 350°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

3. What Type of Sausage Works Best?

Use mild or hot breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or turkey sausage for a leaner option.

4. Why Are My Sausage Balls Dry?

This can happen if there’s too much Bisquick or not enough cheese. Try reducing the Bisquick slightly or adding a bit more cream cheese.

5. Can I Use a Different Cheese?

Yes! Try pepper jack for extra spice, mozzarella for creaminess, or smoked gouda for depth.

6. How Do I Keep Them Warm for a Party?

Place them in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting or cover with foil in a low oven to keep them warm for hours.

Conclusion: The Perfect Appetizer for Every Occasion

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a must-have recipe for anyone who loves bold, savory flavors with a hint of spice. Their crispy exterior, creamy interior, and irresistible cheesy goodness make them a crowd favorite at any gathering.

Whether you’re making them for a party, brunch, holiday meal, or meal prep snack, these bite-sized sausage balls deliver on taste, texture, and convenience. Plus, with so many ways to customize them, you’ll never get bored!

So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy the best sausage balls ever!