Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: The Perfect Party Appetizer
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines spicy, cheesy, and savory flavors in every bite. Perfect for game day, holiday gatherings, or any party, these sausage balls are packed with bold flavors from spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes. They bake up golden brown with a crispy exterior and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth center that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
What makes this recipe stand out is the addition of cream cheese, which adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together for perfectly textured sausage balls. The Rotel tomatoes bring just the right amount of heat and tanginess to balance the richness of the sausage and cheese. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or need a quick snack for the family, these sausage balls are always a hit.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A perfect balance of spicy, cheesy, and savory with a hint of tanginess from the Rotel tomatoes.
- Texture: Crispy on the outside with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth interior thanks to the cream cheese.
- Aroma: Irresistible savory notes of sausage and cheese with a hint of spice that fills the kitchen as they bake.
- Visual Appeal: Golden brown, bite-sized balls that look as delicious as they taste, perfect for any appetizer spread.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with simple mixing and shaping steps—no advanced techniques required.
- Special Equipment: Just a mixing bowl, baking sheet, and your hands—no fancy tools needed.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: This recipe is incredibly easy, making it perfect for beginners. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready in no time.
- Category: Ideal as an appetizer, party snack, or even a game-day finger food.
- Cuisine: A Southern-inspired dish with a spicy twist, thanks to the Rotel tomatoes.
- Cost: Budget-friendly with simple, affordable ingredients that yield a large batch.
- Season: Great year-round, but especially popular during the holidays and football season.
- Occasion: Perfect for potlucks, tailgates, holiday parties, or any gathering where finger foods are a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The combination of spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes creates an explosion of flavor in every bite. These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch that will impress any crowd.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot sausage and Rotel tomatoes. The cream cheese adds a luxurious texture that keeps the sausage balls moist and tender, while the baking powder helps them puff up slightly for the perfect bite.
These sausage balls are also a great make-ahead option. You can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake, or even freeze unbaked balls for future use. This makes them a lifesaver for busy hosts who want to serve something delicious without last-minute stress.
Nutritionally, these sausage balls provide a good amount of protein from the sausage and cheese, making them a satisfying snack. While they’re indulgent, you can lighten them up by using turkey sausage or reduced-fat cream cheese if desired.
From a social standpoint, these sausage balls are always a hit at parties. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve and eat, and their bold flavors ensure they disappear quickly. Plus, they pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, from ranch to spicy mustard.
The Recipe
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Serves: 24 balls
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb spicy ground sausage
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes, drained
- 1 1/2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and drained Rotel tomatoes. Mix until well combined.
- Add the baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape 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.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Recipe Notes
- For a milder version, use mild sausage and original Rotel tomatoes.
- These can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking, or frozen unbaked for later use.
- Serve with ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or your favorite dip.