Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Description

These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer—soft, savory, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Made with spicy sausage, tangy Rotel tomatoes, creamy cream cheese, and sharp cheddar, these golden bites are perfectly moist on the inside with a lightly crisp exterior. They’re great for game days, holiday parties, or quick snack nights.

Ingredients for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

• 1 lb (450 g) ground pork sausage (mild or hot, as preferred)

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened

• 1 can (10 oz / 284 g) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, well-drained

• 1 ½ cups (180 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 ½ cups (180 g) Bisquick or similar baking mix

• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)

• ¼ tsp black pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Sausage Base – In a large bowl, combine the sausage and softened cream cheese until smooth.

3. Add Flavor – Stir in the drained Rotel, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper.

4. Incorporate Baking Mix – Add the Bisquick gradually, mixing until well combined.

5. Shape Balls – Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and place evenly on the baking sheet.

6. Bake – Cook for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 160°F / 71°C).

7. Serve Warm – Best enjoyed fresh from the oven with a dipping sauce like ranch, chipotle mayo, or spicy queso.

Notes

• Drain the Rotel very well to avoid excess moisture.

• Use hot sausage for a spicier kick, or mild for a family-friendly version.

• Cream cheese should be softened at room temperature for easier mixing.

• Can be made ahead, frozen, and baked later.

Tips

• Freezer-Friendly: Roll into balls, freeze on a tray, then store in freezer bags. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes.

• Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack or Monterey Jack for different flavor notes.

• Double Batch: They disappear quickly—make extra for gatherings!

• Less Grease: Use lean sausage or place baked balls on paper towels to absorb excess fat.

Servings

• Yield: About 36 sausage balls

• Serving Size: 3 balls per person

• Total Servings: ~12 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving – 3 balls, approx.)

• Calories: 260 kcal

• Protein: 10 g

• Fat: 20 g

• Saturated Fat: 10 g

• Carbohydrates: 9 g

• Fiber: 0.5 g

• Sugar: 1 g

• Sodium: 540 mg

(Values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients.)

Benefits

• High Protein Snack – Keeps you full longer.

• Easy Party Prep – Can be made in advance.

• Flavor Packed – Combination of creamy, spicy, and cheesy in one bite.

• Versatile – Works as a breakfast side, appetizer, or potluck favorite.

Q&A

Q: Can I make these without Bisquick?
A: Yes, substitute with a homemade baking mix (1 cup flour + 1½ tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp salt + 1 tbsp shortening).

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to keep them crisp.

Q: Can I make them vegetarian?
A: Swap sausage for plant-based sausage alternatives and follow the same steps.

Q: Can I use turkey sausage?
A: Yes, but add a bit of oil or cheese since turkey sausage is leaner and may be drier.