Are you looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to make? Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect solution! These bite-sized treats combine savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice from Rotel, making them a hit at parties, game days, or family gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to disappear quickly.

Tools Needed

To prepare these sausage balls, you’ll need the following tools:

• Large mixing bowl
• Sturdy spoon or your hands for mixing
• Measuring cups
• Tablespoon or cookie scoop
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or non-stick cooking spray

Recipe Details

• Serves: Approximately 24 sausage balls
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb (16 oz) sausage (mild, spicy, or breakfast sausage)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 can Rotel (10 oz), drained (diced tomatoes and green chilies)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups biscuit mix (such as Bisquick)
• Optional: Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This ensures the sausage balls bake evenly and are easy to remove.

Prepare the Sausage Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cream cheese is fully incorporated into the sausage. Using your hands can make this step quicker and more efficient.

Add the Flavor

1. Drain the Rotel to remove any excess liquid. This step is crucial to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.
2. Add the drained Rotel and shredded cheddar cheese to the sausage mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Incorporate the Biscuit Mix

1. Gradually add the biscuit mix to the sausage mixture. Stir well after each addition until the mixture forms a cohesive dough. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more biscuit mix, one tablespoon at a time.

Shape the Balls

1. Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each portion into 1-inch balls using your hands.
2. Arrange the balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. This spacing ensures they cook evenly and don’t stick together.

Bake

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. The sausage balls are done when they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Cool and Serve

1. Allow the sausage balls to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness, if desired.

Recommendations for Recipe Success

• Choose Your Sausage Wisely: Mild sausage keeps the flavors balanced, but spicy sausage adds a delicious kick. Pick based on your preference.
• Drain the Rotel Thoroughly: Removing excess liquid from the Rotel prevents the mixture from becoming too wet and difficult to shape.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the sausage balls during baking to avoid drying them out. They should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
• Customize the Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving:

• Serve these sausage balls warm as an appetizer or snack. Pair them with a dipping sauce like ranch or spicy aioli for added flavor.

Storage:

• Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–10 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until heated through.
• You can also freeze uncooked sausage balls for up to 3 months. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

While this recipe calls for raw sausage, you can use pre-cooked sausage. However, the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

2. Can I make these sausage balls gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the biscuit mix with a gluten-free baking mix to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. What can I use instead of Rotel?

If you don’t have Rotel, use a combination of diced tomatoes and a small amount of canned green chilies for a similar flavor.

4. Can I prepare the mixture in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare the sausage mixture up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Shape and bake the balls when ready to serve.

5. How do I know when the sausage balls are cooked through?

The sausage balls should be golden brown and firm to the touch. You can also check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (71°C).

Conclusion

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer. They’re quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want a delicious snack, these sausage balls will leave everyone coming back for more. Follow these easy steps and tips to create a batch that’s sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out!