Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls have become a beloved appetizer at gatherings and holiday parties across the country. Combining the savory flavors of sausage with the creamy tang of Rotel tomatoes and cream cheese, these bite-sized treats pack a flavorful punch that keeps everyone coming back for more.
We love how simple and quick these sausage balls are to make, yet they deliver impressive taste with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or need a crowd-pleasing snack, this recipe is a go-to favorite that never disappoints.
Ingredients
To create our irresistible Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, we rely on a few key ingredients that bring together bold flavors and perfect texture. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that savory, creamy, and slightly spicy bite everyone loves.
Sausage
- 1 pound ground sausage (preferably spicy or mild pork sausage, depending on your taste preference)
- We recommend using fresh sausage for the juiciest, most flavorful base.
Rotel Tomatoes
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
- This ingredient adds the essential zing and juiciness that defines these sausage balls.
- Use undrained Rotel to keep the mixture moist and well-seasoned.
Cream Cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- Softened cream cheese blends effortlessly into the batter, creating a rich and creamy texture.
- Don’t substitute cold cream cheese as it won’t mix properly.
Bisquick Mix
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- Bisquick acts as the binder delivering the perfect structure without heaviness.
- It ensures these balls are tender yet hold their shape while baking.
Seasonings
| Seasoning | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Adds savory depth |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | Enhances overall flavor |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Brings subtle heat |
| Optional: cayenne pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Adds extra spice if preferred |
- We mix these seasonings directly into the sausage and Bisquick blend for consistent flavor throughout.
Pro tip: Measure the Bisquick carefully and soften the cream cheese before starting the mixing process to save time and guarantee uniform blending.
Equipment Needed
To make our Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls perfectly every time, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Here is a detailed list of tools that ensure an efficient and smooth cooking process:
- Mixing Bowl: Use a large bowl to combine all ingredients evenly without any spills.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements matter for balancing flavor and texture.
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer (optional but helpful): Speeds up blending the cream cheese and sausage mixture to a consistent texture.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Ideal for scraping the bowl and mixing by hand if preferred.
- Baking Sheet: Choose a sturdy baking sheet to hold the sausage balls during baking.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and facilitates easy cleanup.
- Cookie Scoop or Small Ice Cream Scoop: Ensures uniform sausage balls, about 1-inch in diameter, for even cooking.
- Oven Mitts: Safety first when handling hot trays.
- Cooling Rack: Allows sausage balls to cool evenly without getting soggy on the bottom.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Combine ingredients |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Ensure precise measurements |
| Hand Mixer / Stand Mixer | Blend cream cheese and sausage smoothly |
| Spatula / Wooden Spoon | Mix ingredients and scrape bowl |
| Baking Sheet | Place sausage balls for baking |
| Parchment Paper / Baking Mat | Prevent sticking, ease cleanup |
| Cookie Scoop / Ice Cream Scoop | Form uniform sausage balls |
| Oven Mitts | Handle hot trays safely |
| Cooling Rack | Cool sausage balls evenly |
Pro Tip: Using a cookie scoop helps us create sausage balls of consistent size, which bakes evenly and results in a perfect golden crust on all bites.
Equipped with these tools, we ensure our Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls come out flawless, crispy on the outside and tender inside with that signature bold flavor.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls ahead of time is simple and saves valuable moments during your busy event day. Follow these steps to ensure your appetizer stays fresh and delicious.
1. Mix and Form the Sausage Balls
Combine all ingredients — ground sausage, undrained Rotel tomatoes, softened cream cheese, Bisquick baking mix, and seasonings — in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or sturdy spoon to blend until fully combined.
Use a cookie scoop to portion out the mixture evenly. Roll each portion between your palms to create uniform balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Refrigeration for Same-Day Baking
Place the formed sausage balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Keep them covered to prevent drying out.
3. Freezing for Longer Storage
For longer storage, arrange the sausage balls on the baking sheet without overlapping and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then transfer them to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container.
- Freeze for up to 1 month.
- Label the container with the date.
4. Baking from Refrigerated or Frozen State
| Status | Preheat Oven | Baking Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 350°F (175°C) | 20-25 minutes | Bake immediately after cold storage |
| Frozen | 350°F (175°C) | 30-35 minutes | Bake directly from frozen; check for even browning |
We recommend placing frozen sausage balls on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and spacing them evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
5. Tips for Best Results
- To check doneness, cut one sausage ball in half; the inside should be hot and no longer pink.
- For extra crispiness, broil the sausage balls for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully.
- Allow baked sausage balls to cool slightly before serving—this enhances flavor and texture.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to prepare our Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls perfectly. Each phase ensures rich flavor and ideal texture for your crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Prep the Sausage
- Remove 1 pound of ground sausage from the packaging.
- Place it in a large mixing bowl.
- If using refrigerated sausage, let it sit for 5 minutes to soften slightly for easier mixing.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for a timely bake later.
Mixing the Ingredients
- Soften 8 ounces of cream cheese at room temperature for about 15 minutes; this guarantees a smooth blend.
- To the bowl with sausage add:
- 1 can (10 oz) undrained Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix (measure carefully for best structure)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for an extra kick
- Mix thoroughly using a hand mixer or stand mixer on low speed, or by hand with a wooden spoon until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is uniform.
Shaping the Sausage Balls
- Use a cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons size) to portion the mixture.
- Roll each portion firmly between palms to form tight balls approximately 1 inch in diameter.
- Place sausage balls evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Baking Directions
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bake refrigerated sausage balls | 350°F (175°C) | 25-30 minutes | Bake until golden brown and cooked through |
| Bake frozen sausage balls | 350°F (175°C) | 35-40 minutes | Bake directly from freezer, check doneness |
| Optional broil for crispiness | Broil (High) | 1-2 minutes after baking | Watch closely to avoid burning |
- Place the baking sheet on the center rack.
- Check internal temperature reaches 160°F to ensure fully cooked sausage.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Arrange warm sausage balls on a platter.
- Pair with dips such as:
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy mustard
- Creamy horseradish sauce
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a color pop.
- Serve alongside cold beverages for the ultimate game day or party snack experience.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls
To achieve the best results with our Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, follow these essential tips. They ensure the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and presentation every time we bake them.
Use Softened Cream Cheese
Softening the cream cheese before mixing is crucial. Cold cream cheese will not blend smoothly, resulting in a lumpy mixture that is difficult to shape. Leave it out at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or soften in short bursts in the microwave.
Measure Bisquick Precisely
Bisquick provides the necessary structure but too much or too little will affect texture:
| Bisquick Amount | Result |
|---|---|
| Too Little (< 2 cups) | Sausage balls are too soft and may fall apart |
| Perfect (2 cups) | Ideal crumbly yet cohesive texture |
| Too Much (> 2 cups) | Dense and dry sausage balls |
Always spoon into the measuring cup and level with a straight edge for accuracy.
Mix Ingredients Evenly
Combine all ingredients thoroughly using a hand or stand mixer at low speed. This ensures even distribution of sausage, cheese, and seasoning throughout each ball. Do not overmix as this can make the dough tough.
Use a Cookie Scoop for Uniform Size
A cookie scoop sized for 1 ½ tablespoon portions helps us form uniform sausage balls. This guarantees even cooking and a consistent golden crust across every piece.
Chill before Baking
Allowing the formed sausage balls to refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before baking firms up the mixture. This reduces spreading while baking and results in a better bite.
Bake on Parchment or Silicone Mats
Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat prevents sticking and promotes even heat circulation. It also simplifies cleanup.
Monitor Baking Time Closely
| Stage | Temperature | Time | Indication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Baking | 350°F (175°C) | 25-30 minutes | Golden brown exterior, no raw spots inside |
| Optional Broiling | High broil | 1-2 minutes | Crispy crust with slight charring |
Check for doneness by cutting open a sausage ball to ensure it’s cooked through and hot inside.
Add Optional Spices for Extra Kick
For a bolder flavor, sprinkle in cayenne pepper or smoked paprika with the seasonings. Adjust based on your preferred heat level.
“Consistency is key when making Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. Measuring accurately, mixing evenly, and controlling baking times makes all the difference.”
By following these tips, our Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls will be irresistibly flavorful, perfectly textured, and crowd-pleasing every time.
Conclusion
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a game changer for any gathering. They combine bold flavors with simple preparation, making them a go-to appetizer that everyone will love. With just a few key ingredients and easy steps, we can whip up a batch that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside every time.
Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick snack, these sausage balls deliver consistent, crowd-pleasing results. By following the tips and tricks we’ve shared, we’re set up for success and ready to impress without stress. Let’s get baking and enjoy these flavorful bites that bring people together effortlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are bite-sized appetizers made with ground sausage, Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream cheese, and Bisquick. They’re savory, easy to make, and perfect for parties or game day snacks.
What ingredients do I need to make sausage balls?
You’ll need 1 pound of ground sausage (spicy or mild), 1 can of undrained Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 cups of Bisquick baking mix, and seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper.
How do I ensure my sausage balls have the right texture?
Soften the cream cheese before mixing and measure Bisquick precisely. Mix ingredients evenly and chill the shaped balls before baking to ensure a tender interior and crispy crust.
What equipment is essential for making these sausage balls?
You’ll need a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a hand or stand mixer, spatula or wooden spoon, a baking sheet, parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, and a cookie scoop for uniform balls.
Can I prepare sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can form the sausage balls and refrigerate them for same-day baking or freeze them for longer storage. Just follow the baking instructions according to their chilled or frozen state.
How long and at what temperature do I bake sausage balls?
Bake refrigerated sausage balls at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. If frozen, bake at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes. Optionally, broil a few minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
What dips go well with Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?
Popular dips include ranch dressing, spicy mustard, barbecue sauce, or a creamy cheese dip. Choose dips based on your taste preference to complement the sausage balls’ bold flavors.
How can I add extra spice to the sausage balls?
Add cayenne pepper or use spicy ground sausage instead of mild. You can also increase the amount of Rotel green chilies for an added zing.
Why use a cookie scoop when forming sausage balls?
A cookie scoop creates evenly sized balls that bake uniformly, resulting in consistent texture and appearance across all sausages.
What tips ensure perfect sausage balls every time?
Use softened cream cheese, measure Bisquick carefully, mix ingredients thoroughly, chill the balls before baking, and monitor baking times closely. Optionally broil for a golden, crispy finish.