Looking for a savory snack or appetizer that’s bursting with flavor? Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect choice! This twist on the classic sausage ball recipe combines the rich creaminess of cream cheese, the spicy kick of Rotel tomatoes, and the savory goodness of sausage for an irresistible treat. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a game day, or just craving something indulgent, these sausage balls will be a hit with everyone!
Ingredients for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (preferably mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the sausage balls from sticking.
2. Prepare the Sausage Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel tomatoes. Use your hands or a spoon to thoroughly mix these ingredients together until evenly combined. The cream cheese will add a nice richness and help bind everything together, while the Rotel will bring a burst of flavor and a bit of heat.
3. Add the Cheese and Seasonings
Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the sausage mixture. Mix everything until all ingredients are well incorporated. You should have a dough-like mixture that holds together but isn’t too sticky. If it feels too wet, add a little extra flour.
4. Shape the Sausage Balls
Using your hands, scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place each sausage ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Continue until all the mixture has been formed into balls.
5. Bake the Sausage Balls
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the sausage balls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature of the sausage balls should reach 160°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Adjust the Spice Level
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use a can of regular Rotel (without the green chilies). For a more intense heat, opt for the hot variety of Rotel tomatoes or add extra crushed red pepper flakes. - Use a Meat Thermometer
To ensure the sausage balls are fully cooked, always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. This helps avoid undercooking and guarantees the best texture. - Make-Ahead Option
You can prepare the sausage balls in advance and store the uncooked balls in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If you need to freeze them, place the uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. - Cream Cheese Alternative
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or reduced-fat cream cheese, though the texture may vary slightly.
Variations to Try
1. Cheddar and Bacon Sausage Balls
For a savory, smoky flavor, add ½ cup of cooked and crumbled bacon to the sausage mixture. The combination of bacon and cheddar makes for an irresistible twist on the classic sausage ball.
2. Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage Balls
Add diced jalapeños to the sausage mixture for an extra layer of heat. You can adjust the amount based on how spicy you want the sausage balls to be.
3. Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls
Mix in a 4-ounce jar of pimento cheese for a creamy, tangy variation. This will add a Southern touch to your sausage balls.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of breakfast sausage you prefer. Hot sausage will add more spice, while mild sausage will keep things on the milder side. You can also use turkey sausage for a leaner option.
2. Can I freeze these sausage balls?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
3. How do I know when the sausage balls are done?
The sausage balls should be golden brown on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the doneness.
4. Can I make these without Rotel?
If you prefer a less spicy flavor, you can substitute the Rotel with a can of drained diced tomatoes or bell pepper for added flavor without the heat.
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are an easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a batch of sausage balls that are soft, cheesy, and full of zesty flavor from the Rotel tomatoes. Whether you’re serving them for a game day snack, holiday gatherings, or just because, these sausage balls are guaranteed to disappear quickly! Try them once, and you’ll be hooked
