Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe

Posted OnMarch 14, 2025

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a flavorful and spicy twist on the classic sausage ball recipe. This dish combines the rich creaminess of cream cheese, the bold heat of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, and the savory goodness of breakfast sausage, making it a perfect appetizer, snack, or party food. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering, game day party, or casual brunch, these sausage balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with Flavor: The combination of Rotel tomatoes, sausage, and cheese gives a zesty, savory kick.
Easy to Make: Just mix, roll, and bake—no complicated steps required.
Great for Any Occasion: Serve them as an appetizer, breakfast bite, or party snack.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare and freeze them for later convenience.

Ingredients

1 pound breakfast sausage (mild, medium, or hot)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups Bisquick or self-rising flour
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Sausage Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix until well combined.

3. Add the Rotel and Cheese

Drain the can of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, then add it to the sausage mixture. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.

4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the Bisquick or self-rising flour to the mixture, stirring until everything is well combined. If using garlic powder and onion powder, add them at this stage for extra flavor.

5. Form the Sausage Balls

Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.

6. Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

7. Serve and Enjoy

Let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or spicy mustard.

Variations

Spicier Version: Use hot breakfast sausage and add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Cheese Variety: Try swapping cheddar for pepper jack or Colby cheese for a different flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free baking mix in place of Bisquick.
Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 24-30 sausage balls
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: Warm them in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it overnight or freeze the unbaked sausage balls for later use.

Do I need to cook the sausage first?

No, the sausage cooks as the sausage balls bake. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

What dipping sauces go well with sausage balls?

Ranch dressing, honey mustard, spicy aioli, or barbecue sauce are all great options.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! Try Italian sausage, chorizo, or turkey sausage for a different taste.

My sausage balls are dry—what went wrong?

Make sure your cream cheese is fully mixed in and don’t overbake them. Also, avoid using too much flour.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook them at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

How do I prevent the sausage balls from spreading too much?

Make sure your mixture is well combined and the sausage is firm. Chilling the mixture for 15 minutes before baking can help.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture.

What can I serve with these sausage balls?

They pair well with scrambled eggs for breakfast, or with crackers, veggies, and dip for appetizers.

How do I make them dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute and a plant-based cheese alternative.

Conclusion

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delicious, easy-to-make snack that brings bold flavors to any occasion. With their creamy texture, spicy kick, and cheesy goodness, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether served as an appetizer, breakfast bite, or game-day treat, these sausage balls are always a hit!