Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls – The Ultimate Party Appetizer

If you’re searching for an easy, flavorful appetizer that’s always a crowd favorite, look no further. These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, and packed with spicy, cheesy goodness. Perfect for holidays, game nights, potlucks, or even as a make-ahead snack, this recipe combines the savory flavor of sausage with the creamy texture of cheese and a zesty kick from Rotel tomatoes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Quick & Easy: Just mix, roll, and bake!
Make Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance and freeze.
Crowd Pleaser: Great for parties, brunch, or snacks.
Endless Customization: Use mild or spicy sausage, switch up the cheese, or try different add-ins.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

1 lb ground sausage (spicy or mild, depending on your preference)
8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), well-drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick or any all-purpose baking mix)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prep Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine:

Raw sausage
Softened cream cheese
Drained Rotel
Shredded cheddar
Baking mix

Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until everything is fully incorporated. It may feel sticky, but that’s totally fine.

Pro Tip: If the mixture feels too soft to roll, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Roll Into Balls

Using your hands or a small scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. They should be slightly crisp on the outside and soft inside.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, spicy mayo, or BBQ are all great choices.

Expert Tips & Variations:

Cheese options: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for extra flavor.
Make them spicy: Use hot sausage or add a pinch of cayenne.
Make ahead: Roll the balls and freeze them raw. When ready to bake, add 3–5 extra minutes to the cook time.
Serving idea: Use toothpicks for easy serving at parties or arrange them on a platter with dipping sauces.

Storage & Reheating:

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked or baked sausage balls for up to 1 month.
Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I cook the sausage before mixing?

No need! The sausage cooks during baking. Using raw sausage helps bind everything together and gives the best texture.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, though the texture may be slightly less creamy. Full-fat is recommended for best results.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free baking mix and make sure the sausage and Rotel are also gluten-free.

Perfect for Every Occasion

These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a guaranteed hit whether you’re hosting a party, prepping game-day snacks, or looking for a quick, hearty bite. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe belongs in every home cook’s rotation. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy