These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect bite-sized appetizer—spicy, cheesy, and irresistibly addictive! Made with just 5 ingredients, they’re ideal for game day, holiday parties, or any gathering where you want a crowd-pleasing snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold, spicy flavor – Rotel tomatoes add the perfect kick
Ultra-cheesy & creamy – Cream cheese makes them extra moist
Quick & easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
Crowd favorite – Always the first appetizer to disappear
Ingredients
- 1 lb hot breakfast sausage (or mild if preferred)
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes & green chilies, drained
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix (or homemade biscuit mix)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine sausage, Rotel, cream cheese, cheddar, and Bisquick.
- Use your hands or a mixer to blend until fully incorporated. (The dough will be sticky!)
3. Shape & Bake
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls (about 40-45 total) and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with green onions if desired.
- Serve warm with ranch dressing or spicy mustard for dipping.
Expert Tips
For crispier balls – Lightly spray with cooking oil before baking.
Make ahead – Shape balls and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Spice control – Use mild sausage & Rotel for less heat.
Freezer-friendly – Bake, then freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months (reheat at 350°F).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use ground beef instead of sausage?
A: Yes, but add 1 tsp fennel seeds + ½ tsp red pepper flakes for a similar flavor.
Q: What’s a substitute for Bisquick?
A: Mix 2 cups flour + 1 tbsp baking powder + ½ tsp salt + 1/3 cup shortening.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free Bisquick or almond flour + baking powder.
Q: Why are my sausage balls dry?
A: Overbaking or too much Bisquick—stick to 20 minutes max.
Final Thoughts
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the ultimate easy, cheesy, spicy party snack—guaranteed to disappear fast! Perfect for tailgates, potlucks, or holiday appetizer spreads.
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Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: The Ultimate Party Appetizer
- Total Time: 40 mins
Description
Enjoy these savory Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, perfect for any gathering! Packed with flavor and easy to make, they are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
1 lb breakfast sausage
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, drained
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel tomatoes.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and baking mix to the sausage mixture, mixing until well combined.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious and easy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls!
