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Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are my go-to when I want to please a crowd fast. Spicy sausage gets mellowed by velvety cream cheese and cheddar while Rotel tomatoes add just the right kick. These poppable bites always disappear first at game days and potlucks.
I first started making these sausage balls after trying a version at a holiday party. Now there is no family celebration without them and friends always ask for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Spicy breakfast sausage: adds heat so choose your favorite level of spice from mild to hot for a custom kick
- Cream cheese: creamy texture binds everything while keeping the centers irresistibly soft and tangy
- Rotel tomatoes and green chilies: lively acidity and zesty flavor make these sausage balls unique drain well to prevent sogginess
- Shredded cheddar cheese: rich sharpness and gooey melt choose quality sharp cheddar for full flavor
- Bisquick baking mix: gives lightness and holds the mixture without needing separate flour baking powder or salt ensure your mix is fresh for best texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Set oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy removal and cleanup
- Mix Sausage and Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl thoroughly combine uncooked sausage softened cream cheese and drained Rotel use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to mix until completely uniform with no cream cheese streaks left
- Add Cheese and Bisquick:
- Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and Bisquick and continue mixing until every ingredient is evenly blended the dough will be thick and sticky
- Shape the Balls:
- Use a heaping tablespoon or a small cookie scoop to portion mixture roll into 1 inch balls with your hands and place on the prepared baking sheet with space in between for even browning
- Bake Until Golden:
- Put the tray in the center of the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the sausage balls are deep golden and the centers register at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit cool slightly before serving so the cheese firms up
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My favorite part of these sausage balls is the burst of flavor from the Rotel tomatoes. My niece requests these every year at Christmas and loves helping roll them so they are a memorable kitchen tradition for us.
Storage Tips
Once cooled store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. They freeze beautifully too just lay them in a single layer to freeze then transfer to bags. To reheat use the oven or air fryer for best texture no need to thaw first for small batches.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of Bisquick you can mix equal parts flour baking powder and a little salt as a substitute. For a different flavor try swapping pepper jack for cheddar or use a mild breakfast sausage with added cayenne for extra kick. Light cream cheese can be used but the texture will be a bit less rich.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with toothpicks and ranch dip or your favorite hot sauce on the side. These are also fantastic tucked into lunchboxes or as a grab and go breakfast. Try pairing with a crisp salad for a simple dinner.
Cultural Context
Sausage balls are a Southern party favorite and this variation brings in Tex Mex flair through Rotel and spicy sausage. They are a comfort food classic with roots in American home cooking and perfect for sharing at gatherings year round.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent the sausage balls from spreading too much while baking?
Drain the Rotel thoroughly, and be sure your sausage is well chilled before mixing. This keeps the mixture firm and helps the balls hold their shape during baking.
- → Can I use mild sausage instead of spicy?
Absolutely! Mild sausage works well if you prefer a gentler flavor. You can also adjust the spice level with extra seasoning or mild Rotel.
- → Can these be made ahead and reheated?
Yes, prepare and bake as described, let them cool, then refrigerate. Warm in a 300°F oven for 8-10 minutes before serving.
- → Is it possible to freeze sausage balls?
Freeze unbaked balls on a tray, transfer to a bag once solid, and bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cook time.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Try ranch, spicy mustard, or salsa for dipping. Their creamy and tangy flavors match well with the rich filling.