Looking for a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make appetizer that’s packed with flavor? These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the answer! Combining spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and a kick of Rotel tomatoes, these bite-sized treats are perfect for game day, holiday parties, or any gathering.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Ingredients & Substitutions
✅ Step-by-Step Directions
✅ Storage & Reheating Tips
✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage (hot or mild, depending on preference)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilies, drained well
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups Bisquick (or any baking mix)
Optional Add-Ins & Variations
🌶 Spicy Kick – Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
🧀 Extra Cheesy – Mix in ½ cup pepper jack cheese.
🍞 Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free Bisquick or almond flour + 1 tsp baking powder.
Directions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven
- 375°F (190°C)
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
2️⃣ Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Raw sausage
- Softened cream cheese
- Drained Rotel
- Shredded cheddar
- Bisquick
- Mix well (hands work best!) until fully combined.
3️⃣ Shape the Balls
- Roll into 1-inch balls (about 24 total).
- Place on the baking sheet, 1 inch apart.
4️⃣ Bake
- 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
- Best served warm with:
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy mustard
- Queso dip
Storage & Reheating
❄️ Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for 3 days.
🔥 Reheat:
- Oven: 350°F for 5-10 mins
- Microwave: 20-30 sec per ball
❄️ Freezer: Freeze unbaked balls on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different meat instead of sausage?
✅ Yes! Ground beef, turkey sausage, or even plant-based crumbles work (adjust seasoning).
2. Do I have to use Bisquick?
✅ No! Substitute with:
- Homemade baking mix (1 cup flour + 1.5 tsp baking powder + ½ tsp salt + 1 tbsp butter)
- Almond flour + baking powder (for low-carb)
3. Why are my sausage balls dry?
⚠️ Overbaking or too much Bisquick can dry them out. Add 1-2 tbsp milk if needed.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
✅ Yes! Prep the mix, refrigerate for 24 hours, then bake when ready.
5. How do I make them crispier?
🔥 Broil 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
Nutritional Info (Approx.)
⏰ Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Total Time: 35 mins
🔥 Calories: ~120 per ball | Servings: 24 balls
Final Thoughts
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are irresistibly cheesy, spicy, and easy—making them a guaranteed hit at any party! Whether you’re serving them for the big game or a family snack, they’ll disappear fast.
Have a question? Drop it below, and we’ll help! 👇😋
Enjoy! 🎉🧀🔥
