Introduction
Rotel cream cheese sausage balls are a classic appetizer that never fails to disappear quickly. They are rich, savory, and perfectly bite-sized, making them ideal for parties, game days, holidays, or casual snacking. I like this version especially because the addition of cream cheese makes the sausage balls softer and more flavorful than traditional recipes. The Rotel adds just enough tang and mild heat to keep things interesting without overpowering the dish. These sausage balls are easy to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and bake up golden on the outside while staying tender on the inside. What makes them truly dependable is how well they hold their texture, even after cooling. Whether served straight from the oven or set out for guests, they remain moist, satisfying, and full of bold flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These sausage balls are creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. They require no complicated steps, use familiar ingredients, and are perfect for feeding a crowd. They bake evenly, reheat well, and work for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
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Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls That Are Savory, Creamy, and Crowd-Pleasing
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 30 sausage balls
Description
Savory, cheesy sausage balls made with cream cheese and Rotel tomatoes, baked until golden and perfect as an appetizer or party snack.
Ingredients
- 450 g ground sausage
- 225 g cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (285 g) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, well drained
- 2 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine sausage and cream cheese until well mixed.
- Add drained Rotel tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Gradually mix in the baking mix until fully combined.
- Roll the mixture into 2.5 cm (1-inch) balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Drain Rotel very well to avoid excess moisture.
- Serve with ranch or spicy mustard for dipping.
- Sausage balls can be frozen before or after baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ingredients Breakdown
Ground Sausage
Ground sausage provides the savory, seasoned base of the recipe. It adds richness and depth, forming the backbone of each bite.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese softens the texture of the sausage balls and adds a creamy richness that keeps them moist after baking.
Rotel Tomatoes with Green Chilies
Rotel adds tang, mild heat, and moisture. It brightens the flavor and prevents the sausage balls from feeling heavy.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese adds sharpness and melts into the mixture, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Bisquick Baking Mix
Bisquick binds the ingredients together and gives the sausage balls structure without making them dense.
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder adds savory depth and complements the sausage and cheese flavors.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and balance.
Directions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 180°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and ground sausage. Mix thoroughly until evenly blended. Add the drained Rotel tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
Gradually add the Bisquick baking mix, mixing until a thick, cohesive mixture forms. Use a spoon or your hands to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
Roll the mixture into evenly sized balls, about one tablespoon each, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are cooked through and lightly golden on the outside. Remove from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 30 sausage balls. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, baking time is 25 minutes, and cooling time is 5 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 170°C or in the microwave until warmed through.
Variations and Customizations
Rotel cream cheese sausage balls are easy to customize. For a spicier version, use hot Rotel or spicy sausage. You can also mix in pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for extra heat. If you prefer a milder flavor, use mild sausage and reduce the black pepper.
For added texture, finely chopped green onions can be mixed into the batter. These sausage balls can also be made ahead of time, shaped, and refrigerated until ready to bake, making them ideal for entertaining.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Sausage Ball |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbs | 7 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 360 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Drain Rotel thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
Soften cream cheese fully for easier mixing.
Roll balls evenly for uniform baking.
Let sausage balls rest briefly before serving.
FAQs
Can I make sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the mixture or shaped balls up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze these sausage balls?
Yes, freeze baked or unbaked sausage balls for up to two months.
Are these sausage balls spicy?
They are mildly spiced, but heat can be increased easily.
Can I use homemade baking mix?
Yes, homemade baking mix works well.
Can I use turkey sausage?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly leaner.
Do I need to cook the sausage first?
No, the sausage cooks fully in the oven.
Why are my sausage balls dry?
Too much baking mix or overbaking can cause dryness.
Can I air-fry these sausage balls?
Yes, air-fry at 180°C for about 10 to 12 minutes.
What dips pair well with these?
Ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli work well.
Are these good for parties?
Yes, they are ideal finger food and very popular at gatherings.
Conclusion
Rotel cream cheese sausage balls are a creamy, savory appetizer that combines bold flavor with easy preparation. Perfect for entertaining, snacking, or sharing, this recipe is a reliable favorite that delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
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