Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls have saved me countless times when I needed an easy party snack or a make-ahead breakfast treat. The savory sausage, creamy cheese, and the little kick from Rotel tomatoes all come together for a bite that keeps everyone coming back for more. I love how they crisp up golden brown yet stay irresistibly soft inside. They work for everything from weekend brunch spreads to a cozy night in front of the TV.

I first made these for a New Year’s brunch and my family devoured the entire tray before lunch rolled around. Now my friends always hope I bring a batch to our gatherings.

Ingredients

• Breakfast sausage: Choose mild for classic flavor or hot for a spicy kick Look for fresh uncooked sausage for best texture
• Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese makes mixing a breeze Full-fat adds the richest flavor
• Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies: Well-drained so the dough holds together Choose original for a balanced bit of spice or hot for more heat
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-bagged
• Bisquick or baking mix: Helps the balls puff and keeps them tender You can substitute a quality gluten-free mix
• Garlic powder: Boosts depth of flavor Choose a fresh new jar for best taste
• Onion powder: Adds savory notes Optional but enhances everything
• Black pepper: A few twists add a subtle back note of spice Fresh cracked is always best

Always taste your sausage before buying to make sure you like the seasoning level and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Sheet:

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a light coating of oil to prevent sticking. This step helps get the perfect golden bake and easy clean-up.

Drain and Prep the Rotel:

Pour Rotel diced tomatoes into a fine mesh strainer then press with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible. Excess moisture will prevent the mixture from holding together well.

Mix the Ingredients:

In a large bowl combine the sausage cream cheese drained Rotel cheddar Bisquick garlic powder onion powder and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly incorporated. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook or mix with your hands for best control. The dough should be thick and a little sticky.

Shape the Balls:

Use a cookie scoop or heaping tablespoon to portion out the dough. Roll each scoop gently between your palms to form smooth even balls around one inch wide. Arrange evenly on your prepared baking sheet so they have room to bake.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Place the tray on the center rack in your preheated 375 degree oven. Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. Rotate the tray halfway through for even browning.

Cool and Serve:

Let the baked sausage balls rest on the sheet for five minutes to set their texture. Serve warm for the best flavor or enjoy at room temp as a snack.

Save

My favorite part is the way the cream cheese melts into the sausage to make each bite creamy and rich. The first time I made these my sister and I could not stop sneaking them off the baking sheet as soon as they came out of the oven.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the fridge. They stay delicious for about four days. For longer storage freeze raw rolled balls on a baking sheet then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. When ready to enjoy bake directly from frozen just add a few more minutes to the oven time.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to lighten the recipe try turkey sausage instead of pork although it will be slightly less juicy. Gluten free baking mixes and almond flour baking blends work well for those avoiding gluten. Mix up the cheese by swapping in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor and spice.

Save

Serving Suggestions

These sausage balls go with so many dips. My favorites are ranch dressing honey mustard and spicy mayo. For a brunch platter I serve them alongside a simple fruit salad and maybe a batch of scrambled eggs. They also shine at parties with a bowl of salsa or cheese dip.

Why This Snack Is a Classic

Cream cheese sausage balls have been popular at holiday brunches in the South for decades. Adding Rotel gives them a modern twist and a little bit of heat. They fit in at everything from Christmas morning to football parties thanks to their familiar flavors and how easy they are to make ahead.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can turkey sausage be used instead of pork?

Yes, turkey sausage works, but the texture may be slightly drier than pork sausage.

→ How do I make them gluten-free?

Substitute the Bisquick or standard baking mix with a gluten-free blend for a similar texture.

→ Are these suitable for freezing?

Absolutely. Prepare and roll into balls, then freeze before baking for up to three months. They also freeze well after baking.

→ Can I use spicy Rotel or add more heat?

Yes, spicy Rotel or a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños add kick. Adjust according to your taste.

→ How can I tell when they’re done?

Bake until golden and cooked through, or check for an internal temperature of at least 160°F.

→ Is it possible to use pre-cooked sausage?

Raw sausage yields a better texture and helps everything bind, but pre-cooked can be used in a pinch.

→ What are the best dips to serve with them?

Ranch dressing, honey mustard, spicy mayo, salsa, or cheese dip all pair well with these sausage balls.