Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Name: Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls That Win Hearts in 5 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: About 36 sausage balls
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound of spicy ground pork sausage, raw (can use mild if preferred); 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened to room temperature; 1 can (10 ounces) of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, packed; 2 cups Bisquick baking mix, measured firmly and leveled; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Author: molly

Published: October 20, 2025

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Rotel cream cheese sausage balls have been a staple at my family gatherings for years. If you’re looking for a snack that’s quick, flavorful, and a crowd-pleaser, these sausage balls never disappoint. They combine the rich tang of cream cheese with the zest of diced Rotel tomatoes and spicy sausage for a bite that’s hard to resist. I’ve loved making these for holiday parties and casual get-togethers because the recipe comes together fast, and the results are always impressive.

Let me share how this recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen along with tips and tricks to get sausage balls that are perfectly tender and packed with flavor. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll be on your regular rotation too.

Ingredients List for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Getting your ingredient list right is key for authentic rotel cream cheese sausage balls. Here’s what you’ll need, with clear and specific details:

1 pound of spicy ground pork sausage, raw (you can use mild if preferred)
8 ounces of cream cheese, softened to room temperature for easy mixing
1 can (10 ounces) of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained well to avoid excess moisture
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, packed (don’t skip the sharpness, it adds great flavor)
2 cups Bisquick baking mix, measured firmly and leveled (this helps with binding)
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for an extra flavor boost

Make sure your cream cheese is softened; this is crucial for mixing your ingredients evenly without lumps. Also, draining the Rotel well prevents the balls from becoming soggy.

How to Prepare Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: Clear Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to get every batch just right. I’ve broken down the process so you won’t miss a thing.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot when your sausage balls go in, giving them a nice crust.
Mix the sausage and cream cheese first. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon. The cream cheese should be soft enough to incorporate fully with the raw sausage.
Add the drained Rotel, shredded cheddar, Bisquick mix, and garlic powder. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly combined. Don’t overmix; just enough to pull it all together.
Form the mixture into 1-inch balls. I like to use a small cookie scoop or roll by hand. This size helps them cook through without drying out.
Place the sausage balls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Space them about an inch apart to let heat circulate.
Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check around 20 minutes to make sure they’re browning nicely but not burning. Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safety.

When baking is done, let them rest on the tray for 5 minutes. They’ll firm up slightly and be easier to handle. These sausage balls are best served warm, but leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.

Why You’ll Love Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Quick to prepare with simple pantry ingredients
Perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors
Great finger food for parties and snacks
Customizable heat level: use mild or spicy sausage and Rotel varieties
Make ahead and freeze for busy days

Tips for Success with Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Don’t skip draining the Rotel. Excess liquid can make your sausage balls crumbly or soggy.
Use room temperature cream cheese. Cold cream cheese won’t blend properly with the sausage, leaving lumps.
Form uniform-sized balls. Baking time depends on size. Too big and you risk undercooked centers.
Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer. Safety first, especially with raw pork sausage.
Don’t toss the leftover dough. It freezes well raw. Shape the balls when ready to bake.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Sometimes you don’t have everything on hand or want to tweak flavors. Here’s what you need to know:

Sausage: Pork is traditional, but you can switch to turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Adjust seasoning accordingly as turkey is milder.
Cream Cheese: Full-fat provides the best texture. Low-fat versions might make the mixture less cohesive.
Rotel: This canned diced tomato and chili combo is key. If unavailable, mix diced tomatoes with a small amount of chopped green chilies.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor. You can mix in mozzarella for extra meltiness but the taste will differ.
Bisquick Mix: You can substitute with self-rising flour plus a pinch of baking powder, but results may vary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Leftover sausage balls keep well in the fridge and freezer, which is great for busy schedules.

Refrigerating: Store cooled sausage balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze on a baking tray first, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Keep for up to 3 months. Bake frozen balls at 350°F for about 35 minutes or until heated through.
Reheating: Warm them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or zap in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Careful not to overheat or they’ll dry out.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Can I make rotel cream cheese sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients and shape the sausage balls a day before baking. Keep them covered in the fridge and bake fresh when ready. They also freeze great uncooked if you want to prep even further ahead.

What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I still enjoy these sausage balls?

Absolutely. Use mild sausage and mild version of Rotel or replace Rotel with plain diced tomatoes. The cream cheese and cheddar still deliver plenty of flavor without much heat.

Can I freeze cooked sausage balls?

It’s best to freeze them uncooked for best texture, but cooked sausage balls can be frozen too. Just reheat them in the oven until warmed through. Keep an eye on the moisture to avoid drying out.

Are rotel cream cheese sausage balls gluten-free?

Not with Bisquick, since it contains wheat flour. To keep them gluten-free, swap Bisquick with your favorite gluten-free baking mix. Check labels to be sure!

Can I bake rotel cream cheese sausage balls in an air fryer?

Yes, air frying is a quick alternative. Cook at 350°F for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. It results in a crispy exterior with a tender inside.