Zesty Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe for Game Day

Savory rotel cream cheese sausage balls spark joy at every gathering, promising irresistible bites that disappear in seconds.

Packed with zesty flavors, these appetizers combine hearty sausage and smooth cream cheese for an unbeatable combination.

Sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich depth that keeps people coming back for more.

Mixing ingredients becomes a breeze with simple pantry staples and minimal prep time.

Guests will love how these little morsels deliver big taste in one perfect pop.

Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, these sausage balls make any occasion feel special.

Watch them vanish from the platter before you can count to ten!

FAQs

• Are these sausage balls spicy?

The Rotel tomatoes and green chilies add a mild kick of heat, creating a zesty flavor without being overwhelmingly spicy. If you prefer less heat, you can use mild Rotel or reduce the amount of chilies.

• Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! Breakfast sausage works best, but you can experiment with hot sausage for extra spice or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just ensure the sausage is uncooked when mixing.

• Do I need to drain the Rotel tomatoes completely?

Yes, drain the Rotel thoroughly to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet. Extra moisture can make the sausage balls dense or prevent them from holding their shape during baking.

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Essentials

• Spice Up Your Snack Time: Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls bring a zesty kick with the perfect blend of spicy Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, making every bite a flavor explosion.
• Crowd-Pleasing Party Starter
• Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward mixing technique, even novice cooks can create a restaurant-worthy appetizer that looks and tastes impressively gourmet.

Ingredients for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

• Sausage: A flavorful protein that provides the primary taste and texture for the sausage balls.
• Cream Cheese: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together with a smooth, creamy consistency.

• Bisquick Mix: A convenient baking mix that provides structure and helps create a light, fluffy texture.
• Shredded Mexican Cheese: Enhances the overall flavor and adds a melty, savory element to the sausage balls.

• Rotel Tomatoes, Green Chilies: Contribute a zesty and slightly spicy kick that brightens the entire dish with a fresh, tangy flavor profile.

Preparation Steps for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it heat while you prepare the delicious mixture.

Step 2: Mix the Magical Ingredients

• Uncooked sausage
• Softened cream cheese
• Drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies
• Bisquick mix
• Shredded Mexican cheese

Blend everything together using a hand mixer or strong spoon until the mixture looks perfectly combined and smooth.

Step 3: Shape the Tasty Morsels

Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls, each about the size of a golf ball.

Make sure they’re evenly shaped so they cook consistently.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Carefully place the sausage balls on the sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Pop the tray into the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes.

You’ll know they’re ready when the bottoms turn a beautiful golden brown and the entire kitchen smells amazing.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the sausage cheese bites from the oven.

Let them cool for a few minutes, then transfer to a serving plate. These zesty treats are perfect for parties, game day, or anytime you want a delicious snack!

Tips for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

• Soften cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture, preventing lumpy sausage balls.
• Drain Rotel tomatoes completely to avoid excess moisture that could make the mixture too wet and impact the balls' consistency.
• Choose spicy or mild sausage based on personal heat preference, allowing versatility for different taste profiles.
• Freeze uncooked sausage balls for up to one month, making them perfect for advance meal preparation and quick entertaining.
• Use a cookie scoop for uniform size and shape, ensuring consistent cooking and professional-looking appetizers.

Flavor Variations of Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

• Spicy Southwestern Sausage Balls: Replace Rotel with diced jalapeños and add chipotle powder for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Cheese Bites: Swap sausage with plant-based ground meat alternative, use vegan cream cheese, and gluten-free flour blend.
• Low-Carb Protein Bombs: Substitute Bisquick with almond flour, use lean turkey sausage, and add extra cheese for binding.
• Mediterranean Herb Balls: Incorporate crumbled feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and mixed Mediterranean herbs for a flavor transformation.

Pairing Ideas for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

• Choose a crisp amber ale or hoppy IPA to cut through the richness of the sausage balls, balancing their creamy texture with a refreshing hop-forward profile.
• Whip up a tangy ranch or spicy sriracha mayo dip that complements the southwestern flavors of the Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, enhancing the overall taste experience.
• Select a medium-bodied red like Zinfandel or a bright Sauvignon Blanc to provide a complementary flavor contrast that elevates the appetizer's spicy and cheesy notes.

Storage Advice for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

• Transfer cooled sausage balls to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Refrigerate for up to 4 days, keeping them fresh and ready for quick snacking.
• Wrap individual sausage balls in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 3 months, ensuring a convenient make-ahead option for future appetizers.
• Place desired number of sausage balls on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30-45 seconds, checking midway to prevent overcooking. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe

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4.9 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

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Description

Spicy rotel cream cheese sausage balls combine zesty sausage, tangy cream cheese, and sharp cheddar for an irresistible appetizer. Guests will devour these bite-sized treats at parties or game day gatherings.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1.5 cups Bisquick mix
• 1 pound (454 g) uncooked sausage
• 1 (8 oz / 226 g) package cream cheese (softened)
• 1 (10 oz / 283 g) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (thoroughly drained)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F, creating an optimal cooking environment for the sausage balls.
2. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine uncooked sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, Bisquick mix, and shredded Mexican cheese until the mixture becomes uniformly blended.
3. Gently roll the mixture into compact, bite-sized spheres approximately 1 inch in diameter, ensuring consistent sizing for even cooking.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
5. Strategically place the formed sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, maintaining slight separation between each ball.
6. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, monitoring until the balls develop a rich golden-brown exterior and appear fully cooked through.
7. Remove from the oven and allow the sausage balls to rest for a few minutes before serving, which helps them maintain structural integrity and cool to a comfortable eating temperature.

Notes

• Opt for lean sausage to reduce excess grease and create a lighter texture in the sausage balls.
• Chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes before forming balls to help them hold their shape better during baking.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
• Ensure cream cheese is completely softened to guarantee smooth mixing and consistent texture throughout the mixture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 182
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg