Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser Appetizer
Few appetizers hit the sweet spot between easy, comforting, and wildly addictive quite like Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. These bite-sized savory snacks are packed with bold sausage flavor, melty cream cheese richness, sharp cheddar, and just the right amount of zesty heat from Rotel tomatoes and green chilies. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, planning a game-day spread, or simply craving something indulgent and satisfying, this recipe delivers every time.
Sausage balls have long been a Southern classic, beloved for their simplicity and versatility. Traditionally made with sausage, cheese, and baking mix, they’re already delicious—but adding cream cheese and Rotel takes them to an entirely new level. The cream cheese keeps the sausage balls ultra-moist and tender, while Rotel adds brightness and a gentle kick that balances the richness perfectly.
One of the best things about this recipe is how approachable it is. You don’t need advanced cooking skills, specialty tools, or fancy ingredients. Everything comes together in one bowl, bakes in under 30 minutes, and can even be prepped ahead of time. That makes these Rotel cream cheese sausage balls ideal for busy hosts, meal preppers, and anyone who wants maximum flavor with minimal effort.
These sausage balls are incredibly versatile, too. Serve them as a breakfast side with eggs, as an appetizer with dipping sauces, or as a hearty snack straight from the oven. They freeze beautifully, reheat well, and disappear fast—so you may want to make a double batch.
If you’re searching for a reliable, no-fail party appetizer that people will ask you for again and again, this is it. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the best Rotel cream cheese sausage balls right at home.
Why You’ll Love Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
There are plenty of sausage ball recipes out there, but this version stands out for several reasons:
- Ultra-moist texture: Cream cheese prevents dryness and adds luxurious richness.
- Bold flavor: Rotel tomatoes and green chilies add tang and mild heat without overpowering.
- Simple ingredients: Everything is easy to find at any grocery store.
- Perfect for crowds: Bite-sized, portable, and universally loved.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep, freeze, and bake whenever you need them.
From casual family breakfasts to festive holiday platters, these sausage balls fit seamlessly into any menu.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (mild or hot)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, well drained
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the ground sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Stir in the drained Rotel tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Gradually add the baking mix, stirring until a thick, cohesive dough forms.
- Scoop the mixture into 1-inch balls using a cookie scoop or your hands and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls
- Drain Rotel thoroughly: Excess moisture can make the mixture too soft. Press gently with a spoon to remove liquid.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese: This ensures even mixing and a smoother texture.
- Don’t overbake: Pull them as soon as they’re golden to keep them tender.
- Uniform sizing matters: Evenly sized balls cook more consistently.
Flavor Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, it’s easy to customize:
- Spicy Kick: Use hot sausage and add a pinch of cayenne.
- Southwestern Style: Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese.
- Breakfast Sausage Balls: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup for subtle sweetness.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace baking mix with almond flour (texture will vary slightly).
Serving Suggestions
Rotel cream cheese sausage balls are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a dip makes them irresistible:
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard
- Spicy mayo
- Warm queso
They also pair beautifully with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or a simple green salad for brunch spreads.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing
These sausage balls are perfect for planning ahead:
- Refrigerator: Store cooked sausage balls in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer (Unbaked): Freeze rolled balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5 minutes.
- Freezer (Baked): Fully baked sausage balls freeze well and reheat in the oven or air fryer.
A Southern Favorite with a Modern Twist
Sausage balls have long been a staple at Southern gatherings, church potlucks, and holiday breakfasts. The addition of cream cheese and Rotel reflects modern tastes—bold, creamy, and slightly spicy—while honoring the comfort-food roots that make this dish so beloved. It’s a recipe that bridges generations and brings people together, one bite at a time.
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix sausage and softened cream cheese until fully combined.
- Stir in drained Rotel, cheddar cheese, and seasonings.
- Gradually add baking mix until a thick dough forms.
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool slightly before serving.
