Cheesy, savory sausage balls packed with Rotel tomatoes—perfect for parties, game day, or make-ahead breakfasts.
Recipe Card
Servings & Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
- Yield: About 36 sausage balls
- Dietary Notes: Contains dairy and gluten | Can be made gluten-free (see substitutions)
Ingredients
- 1 lb hot breakfast sausage, uncooked
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups Bisquick baking mix
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained very well
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked sausage and softened cream cheese until well blended.
- Add the drained Rotel tomatoes and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the Bisquick baking mix and stir until a thick dough forms.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Additional Notes
- Drain the Rotel thoroughly to prevent soggy sausage balls.
- Softened cream cheese mixes more evenly and prevents lumps.
- This recipe is naturally low-carb friendly when made without Bisquick (see substitutions).
Brief Introduction
These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a bold twist on the classic sausage ball recipe. The addition of Rotel tomatoes brings just the right amount of heat and tang, while cream cheese keeps everything moist and rich. This is one of those recipes that disappears fast—whether it’s sitting on a holiday buffet or served alongside morning coffee.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Mixing the Base
Combine the sausage and cream cheese first. This creates a smooth foundation so the other ingredients distribute evenly.
Tip: Mixing by hand works best for texture and control.
Adding Flavor
Stir in the drained Rotel and shredded cheddar. The tomatoes add moisture and spice, while the cheese boosts richness.
Tip: If the mixture feels too wet, add 1–2 tablespoons more Bisquick.
Shaping and Baking
Roll into evenly sized balls so they cook at the same rate. Bake until browned and firm.
Tip: Internal temperature should reach 160°F for fully cooked sausage.
Ingredient Details and Substitution Tips
Key Ingredients Explained
- Hot Breakfast Sausage: Provides spice and structure. Mild sausage can be used for less heat.
- Cream Cheese: Keeps the sausage balls tender and prevents dryness.
- Rotel Tomatoes: Adds acidity and spice; regular diced tomatoes can be substituted if heat is an issue.
Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Bisquick or almond flour (start with 1 ÂĽ cups).
- Mild Version: Use mild sausage and Rotel Mild.
- Extra Cheesy: Add an additional ½ cup shredded cheese.
Equipment Alternatives
- No mixer needed; hands or a sturdy spoon work perfectly.
- A cookie scoop helps with uniform sizing but is optional.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
Flavor Variations
- Add ½ teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder
- Mix in 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar
Dietary Variations
- Low-Carb: Replace Bisquick with almond flour and add 1 egg for binding
- Spicy: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or use extra-hot Rotel
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or honey mustard
- Great as a breakfast side, appetizer, or party snack
Storage and Make-Ahead Information
Storage
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezing
- Freeze cooked sausage balls for up to 3 months
- Freeze uncooked balls on a tray, then transfer to freezer bags
Reheating
- Oven: 350°F for 8–10 minutes
- Microwave: 30–45 seconds per serving
Make-Ahead Tip
- Prepare and shape the balls up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Ball)
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sodium: 260mg
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use mild sausage instead of hot?
Yes, mild sausage works well and reduces the spice level.
Q: Why are my sausage balls greasy?
Some sausage brands release more fat. Drain briefly on paper towels after baking.
Q: Can I bake these ahead of time?
Yes, they reheat very well and are ideal for meal prep.
Q: Can I air-fry these?
Yes. Air fry at 370°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Optional Personal Notes
This recipe is a go-to for potlucks and holidays because it’s reliable, flexible, and always a crowd favorite. I’ve tested it with multiple sausage brands, and it never disappoints. It’s one of those “write it down because everyone will ask” recipes.
Call to Action
Try these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls and let me know how they turned out. Leave a comment with your favorite variation, rate the recipe, or share it with someone who loves easy comfort food.
