When it comes to crowd-pleasing appetizers, few things hit the spot like Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. These bite-sized flavor bombs combine spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes for a snack that’s crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and loaded with bold, savory goodness.
Whether you’re prepping for a game day party, holiday gathering, or casual snack attack, this recipe will steal the show. Plus, it’s super easy to make with just a few ingredients!
Why You’ll Love These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
✔ Easy & Quick – Just mix, roll, and bake! No fancy steps.
✔ Cheesy & Spicy – Creamy cheese + Rotel = unbeatable flavor.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve at parties, brunch, or snack time.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep them in advance and bake when needed.
Ingredients for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb spicy pork sausage (uncooked)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes (drained)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (for extra heat)
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and uncooked sausage. Mix until smooth.
Step 2: Add the Flavor
- Stir in the Rotel tomatoes, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Form the Sausage Balls
- Gradually add the Bisquick baking mix, stirring until the dough comes together. It should be sticky but firm enough to roll.
- Scoop out small portions and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them evenly on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Best Dipping Sauces for Sausage Balls
These sausage balls are fantastic on their own, but a great dipping sauce takes them to the next level:
🔥 Spicy Ranch – Mix ranch dressing with hot sauce for a zesty kick.
🧀 Cheese Dip – Warm queso or Velveeta dip = match made in heaven.
🌶 Honey Mustard – A little sweet, a little tangy, totally delicious.
🥣 Creamy Sriracha Mayo – Mayo + sriracha = spicy perfection.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls
⭐ Use Softened Cream Cheese – Makes mixing easier and ensures a smooth texture.
⭐ Drain the Rotel Well – Excess liquid can make the dough too wet.
⭐ Shred Your Own Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
⭐ Don’t Overmix – Stir just until combined for a light, tender bite.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
🍽 Make Ahead: Prepare the sausage balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen (just add a few extra minutes).
❄ Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
🔥 Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or in the air fryer for a crispy finish.
What to Serve with Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
These sausage balls are the ultimate appetizer, but they also pair well with other party favorites:
🥓 Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers – Spicy, cheesy, and smoky.
🥔 Loaded Potato Skins – Crispy potatoes stuffed with cheese and bacon.
🥗 Crisp Green Salad – A fresh balance to the richness.
🍞 Garlic Bread Bites – Soft, buttery, and garlicky goodness.
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a guaranteed hit at any gathering. They’re savory, cheesy, slightly spicy, and completely addictive. Plus, they’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for meal prep.
Try this recipe for your next party or snack craving—you won’t be disappointed!
