Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls – Easy, Cheesy Party Favorite

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to make a crowd-pleasing bite that disappears fast?

If there’s one recipe that never fails at parties, potlucks, game days, or cozy family gatherings, it’s Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. 🧀🔥 These little bites are warm, cheesy, savory, and just a little bit spicy—exactly the kind of comfort food everyone reaches for when the weather cools down and the table fills up with friends and laughter.

What makes this version truly special is how easy it is. No complicated steps, no fancy tools, and no stress. Just simple ingredients that come together into something incredibly satisfying. The sausage brings bold, hearty flavor, the cream cheese adds richness and moisture, the Rotel tomatoes give a gentle kick, and the cheese ties everything together in melty perfection. Every bite is tender on the inside with a lightly crisp exterior—pure comfort food joy. 😍

These sausage balls are perfect for entertaining because they’re make-ahead friendly, freezer-friendly, and endlessly versatile. Serve them straight from the oven for a hot appetizer, keep them warm in a slow cooker for parties, or enjoy them as an easy snack or quick lunch. They’re also one of those recipes people always ask for—simple, familiar, and dangerously addictive.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, planning a game-day spread, or just craving something cheesy and comforting, this recipe delivers every single time. Let’s make a batch of Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls that earns its place as a true party favorite. 🎉👩‍🍳

Ingredients

Sausage Ball Base

• 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (mild or hot, your choice)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, well drained
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)

Optional Flavor Boosters

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for warmth and depth)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened. This is key for easy mixing and evenly textured sausage balls.
3. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground sausage and softened cream cheese. Use a sturdy spoon or clean hands to combine them until smooth and well blended.
4. Add the drained Rotel tomatoes. Be sure they’re very well drained to prevent excess moisture in the mixture.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, distributing it evenly throughout the sausage mixture.
6. Sprinkle in the baking mix along with the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
7. Mix everything together until fully combined. The mixture should be thick, slightly sticky, and easy to roll. If it feels too wet, add 1–2 tablespoons of baking mix.
8. Scoop or roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 22–25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are lightly golden and cooked through.
10. Remove from the oven and let rest for 3–5 minutes before serving. This helps them firm up slightly while staying tender inside.
11. Serve warm and watch them disappear fast. 😋

Nutritional Information

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are rich, satisfying, and perfect for sharing. While they’re indulgent, they’re meant to be enjoyed in moderation as part of a festive spread. Their balance of protein, fats, and carbs makes them filling and comforting—ideal for cold days and social gatherings.

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Baking Time: 25 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 40 minutes

⚡ Calories per serving: ~180 (per 3 balls)
🍽️ Servings: About 30 sausage balls

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!