Name: rotel cream cheese sausage balls recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound breakfast sausage (regular or hot); 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 10 ounces can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained; 1 ½ cups Bisquick baking mix

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Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: The Ultimate Party Appetizer! 🧀🌶️🎉

1. Introduction

Looking for the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer? Look no further than this easy and delicious rotel sausage balls recipe! These savory bites combine the rich flavor of sausage, the creamy texture of cream cheese, and the spicy kick of Rotel tomatoes. Perfect for game day, holiday gatherings, or any special occasion, cream cheese sausage balls are always a hit. Plus, they are incredibly simple to make with just a few ingredients. Whether you call them sausage cheese balls or rotel cheese balls, one thing is certain: they’ll disappear fast!

Finished Rotel cream cheese sausage balls, perfect appetizer.

This rotel sausage balls recipe is a guaranteed winner for any event. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. The ease of preparation means you can whip up a batch in no time, leaving you more time to enjoy the party. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to make the best cream cheese sausage balls you’ve ever tasted! They are perfect as appetizers, but if you are looking for something more filling, check out these amazing main dishes for your next gathering!

2. Why This Recipe Works

This rotel sausage balls recipe works because it strikes the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and convenience. The sausage provides a savory depth, while the cream cheese adds a smooth, creamy element that melts in your mouth. The Rotel tomatoes bring a touch of spice and acidity, cutting through the richness of the other ingredients. Using Bisquick simplifies the process, creating a light and fluffy texture that complements the other flavors without being too heavy. Plus, the recipe is incredibly versatile; you can adjust the amount of Rotel to control the level of spiciness. For a milder flavor, consider using a can of mild Rotel, or for those who like a fiery kick, opt for the hot version. In short, this recipe is foolproof and customizable, making it a go-to for any occasion. These are great as appetizers and snacks for any party!

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound breakfast sausage (regular or hot, depending on your preference)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
10 ounces can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
1 ½ cups Bisquick baking mix

Make sure you get the best ingredients possible to ensure a delicious result. If you’re looking for alternatives to Bisquick, self-rising flour can work in a pinch, but the texture may be slightly different. Want to know more about us?

4. Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
Measuring cups and spoons

5. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage

Begin by opening the package of breakfast sausage. In a large mixing bowl, crumble the sausage evenly. Ensure there are no large clumps for a consistent texture in your rotel sausage balls. This step is crucial for distributing the sausage flavor evenly throughout the appetizer.

Opening breakfast sausage package for Rotel cream cheese sausage balls.

Step 2: Soften the Cream Cheese

Make sure your cream cheese is properly softened. It should be easy to mix and incorporate into the other ingredients. If it’s not soft enough, microwave it in 15-second intervals until it reaches the right consistency for your cream cheese sausage balls. Soft cream cheese ensures a smooth, creamy texture in the final product. This is a crucial step; otherwise, you might end up with lumpy sausage balls.

Softening cream cheese for making Rotel sausage balls.

Step 3: Combine Sausage, Cream Cheese, and Bisquick

Add the softened cream cheese to the crumbled sausage in the mixing bowl. Mix until well combined. Then, add the Bisquick baking mix. Continue mixing until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. The mixture should be uniform and easy to handle for forming sausage cheese balls. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tougher texture. You want the ingredients just combined.

Bisquick mix and sausage cream cheese mixture ready for Rotel sausage balls.

Step 4: Add Rotel and Bake

Drain the can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies to remove excess liquid. This step is incredibly important to prevent soggy sausage balls. Add the drained Rotel to the sausage mixture. Mix well to distribute the Rotel evenly. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the rotel cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. You want them nicely browned and cooked through.

Adding Rotel tomatoes to Rotel cream cheese sausage ball mixture.

6. Tips for Success

Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing.
Drain the Rotel tomatoes well to prevent soggy cream cheese sausage balls.
Don’t overmix the ingredients to keep the texture light and fluffy.
For a spicier kick, use hot breakfast sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Feel free to experiment with different spice blends to find your perfect level of heat.
Serve warm for the best taste and texture. They are also delicious slightly cooled, but warm is definitely the way to go!

Want more appetizer options? Why not try these Rotel cream cheese sausage balls? They’re another fantastic choice!

7. Variations and Substitutions

For a cheese lover’s twist, add shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese to the mixture. A little extra cheese never hurt anyone!
Experiment with different types of sausage, such as Italian or chorizo, for unique flavor profiles. Each type of sausage will bring a different level of spice and richness.
Use gluten-free baking mix as a substitute for Bisquick to make this recipe gluten-friendly. There are many great gluten-free options available these days.
Add chopped green onions or jalapeños for extra flavor and heat. These additions can really take the flavor to the next level. Try serving this as a breakfast or brunch sometime!

If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy these delicious scalloped potatoes for another crowd-pleasing dish, or these quick scalloped potatoes recipe if you need something fast! You can also check out scalloped potatoes for Easter dinner or the best homemade scalloped potatoes

8. Serving Suggestions

Serve these delicious rotel sausage balls warm as an appetizer for parties, gatherings, or game days. They pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli. You can also serve them as part of a brunch spread or as a savory snack any time of day. Their versatility makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. For a festive occasion, serve alongside these traditional hot cross buns!

Having a hard time figuring out what to make for dinner? Check out these dinner ideas!

9. Conclusion

This rotel sausage balls recipe is a simple, yet incredibly satisfying appetizer that is sure to impress. The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and spicy Rotel creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone wanting more. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these cream cheese sausage balls are perfect for any occasion. So, next time you need a quick and delicious appetizer, give this recipe a try and watch them disappear!