Looking for a savory, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack? These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect choice. Combining the bold flavors of hot sausage, cream cheese, and a touch of Rotel, this simple yet flavorful dish is sure to become a favorite. The sausage provides a hearty base, while the cream cheese adds a creamy, smooth texture that balances out the heat from the sausage and Rotel. With just a few basic ingredients, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a game day snack, a party appetizer, or a fun weekend treat.

The beauty of these sausage balls lies in their simplicity. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a batch ready in under 30 minutes. They’re flavorful, satisfying, and versatile, and they’re guaranteed to disappear quickly once they’re on the table. These sausage balls are a great option for those who love a bit of spice in their food, thanks to the inclusion of Rotel. You can also adjust the heat level by choosing mild or hot sausage, depending on your preference. Serve these warm with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Make

This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for a last-minute snack or appetizer.

2. Bold and Flavorful

The combination of hot sausage, cream cheese, and Rotel creates a savory, slightly spicy, and creamy flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual get-together, a game day, or a party, these sausage balls are always a hit and perfect for serving a crowd.

4. No Fancy Ingredients

With just four ingredients, you can whip these up without needing to make a special trip to the store.

5. Customizable

You can adjust the level of spiciness by choosing the type of sausage or Rotel you use, making it easy to suit different tastes.

Ingredients

Hot sausage
Cream cheese (softened)
Bisquick
Rotel (drained)

Variations

Milder Version: If you prefer less heat, opt for mild sausage and use a can of mild Rotel.
Cheesy Sausage Balls: Add shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of your favorite cheeses to the mixture for an extra cheesy twist.
Herb Infused: Mix in some dried herbs like oregano or thyme for added flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick to make these sausage balls gluten-free.
Spicy Kick: If you want even more heat, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the hot sausage, softened cream cheese, Bisquick, and drained Rotel. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Balls

Once the ingredients are thoroughly mixed, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

Step 4: Bake the Sausage Balls

Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

Allow the sausage balls to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm, either on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing, as this will ensure the mixture comes together smoothly.
For a crispier texture, bake the sausage balls for an additional 5 minutes.
You can freeze the sausage balls before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, just place them directly from the freezer into the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
If you want to prevent the sausage balls from sticking to the baking sheet, line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

How to Serve

These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are perfect for serving at parties or gatherings. Serve them as is, or pair them with a dipping sauce such as ranch, barbecue sauce, or a spicy mustard for an extra burst of flavor. They also go great with a fresh green salad or as a side to a larger meal. For a heartier snack, enjoy them with some crunchy vegetables on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave for a quick snack, or warm them in the oven for the best texture.

Freezing

These sausage balls freeze beautifully. After shaping the balls, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat the sausage balls, you can place them in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use mild sausage if you prefer less spice, or try other varieties like turkey sausage for a lighter option.

2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used as a substitute, though the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

3. How do I make these sausage balls less greasy?

Make sure to drain any excess fat from the sausage after browning it to reduce the grease in the final product.

4. Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time by shaping them and storing them in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to bake them.

5. How do I know when the sausage balls are done?

The sausage balls should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through. A toothpick or fork inserted into the center should come out clean.

6. Can I freeze the sausage balls before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the sausage balls before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.

7. Can I add cheese to the sausage ball mixture?

Yes, adding shredded cheddar or any other cheese to the mixture will enhance the flavor and make them even more delicious.

8. Can I use a different baking mix instead of Bisquick?

Yes, you can substitute Bisquick with another brand of baking mix or even a homemade baking mix if desired.

9. How long do these sausage balls keep?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

10. Can I serve these sausage balls with a dipping sauce?

Yes, these sausage balls are perfect with dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ sauce, or spicy mustard.

Conclusion

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a simple, delicious, and versatile appetizer that will quickly become a crowd favorite. With their bold flavors, ease of preparation, and satisfying texture, they’re perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a snack for the family. You can make them ahead of time, freeze them, or serve them fresh out of the oven for the perfect bite-sized treat. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying them yourself, these sausage balls are sure to impress!