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Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: The Ultimate Party Appetizer Recipe

  • Author: Sophia

Description

I still remember the first time I made these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. It was a chilly Saturday morning before our annual football watch party, and I was desperately searching for something beyond the typical veggie tray and store-bought dips. My neighbor had mentioned this recipe in passing, claiming it was the only appetizer she ever needed to bring to gatherings.

Skeptical but intrigued, I gathered the ingredients and got to work. The kitchen filled with the most incredible aroma as these golden beauties baked. When I pulled them from the oven, the cheese was perfectly melted and bubbly, with little flecks of green chilies peeking through. My husband wandered in, grabbed one, and his eyes went wide. “These are dangerous,” he said, reaching for another. By halftime of the game, the entire platter was empty, and I had three people asking for the recipe. From that moment on, these sausage balls became my signature dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients for Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Here’s what you’ll need to make approximately 40-45 sausage balls:

  • 1 pound ground pork sausage (hot or mild, depending on your heat preference)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, well drained
  • 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (or sharp cheddar)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)If you're searching for the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines savory flavors with a delightful Tex-Mex kick, look no further than these incredible Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. These bite-sized flavor bombs have taken the internet by storm, and for good reason—they're impossibly easy to make, freeze beautifully, and disappear within minutes at any gathering. With just five simple ingredients, you'll create an appetizer that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Sausage Balls

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Drain the Rotel thoroughly. This is crucial—excess liquid will make your mixture too wet and difficult to roll. Press the tomatoes gently against a strainer to remove as much moisture as possible.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked sausage with the softened cream cheese. Using your hands or an electric stand mixer with a dough hook, mix until smooth and well incorporated.
  4. Add the drained Rotel and shredded cheese to the mixture. Continue mixing until evenly distributed throughout.
  5. Gradually add the Bisquick, mixing until a thick, uniform dough forms. If the mixture seems too sticky, add a tablespoon more Bisquick at a time.
  6. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the mixture and roll into 1-inch balls between your palms. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
  7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown on the outside and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
  8. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.I still remember the first time I made these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. It was a chilly Saturday morning before our annual football watch party, and I was desperately searching for something beyond the typical veggie tray and store-bought dips. My neighbor had mentioned this recipe in passing, claiming it was the only appetizer she ever needed to bring to gatherings.

Notes

Pro Tips for the Best Sausage Balls

  • Let your cream cheese and sausage sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before mixing. Cold ingredients are much harder to combine.
  • For extra flavor, use Jimmy Dean Hot sausage and pair it with pepper jack cheese instead of the Mexican blend.
  • Don’t skip draining the Rotel—soggy sausage balls are nobody’s friend.
  • A cookie scoop ensures uniform size, which means even cooking throughout.

Nutritional Information for Sausage Balls

Per serving (approximately 3 sausage balls): Calories: 245 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 12g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 520mg | Fiber: 0.5g. These are definitely an indulgent treat, perfect for special occasions and celebrations.

Sausage Ball Presentation Tips

Presentation matters, especially at parties. Arrange your sausage balls on a white platter and garnish generously with fresh parsley for a pop of color. For a festive touch during the holidays, add some rosemary sprigs around the edges. Serve with toothpicks and provide small dipping bowls of salsa, ranch dressing, or queso on the side.

Perfect Pairings for Sausage Balls

Dipping Sauces

These versatile bites pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, honey mustard, spicy queso, marinara sauce, or even a cool sour cream dip. For a tangy contrast, try a jalapeño dip or fresh salsa.

Beverage Pairings

For beer lovers, a crisp Mexican lager or light pilsner cuts through the richness beautifully. Wine enthusiasts should reach for a sparkling Prosecco or a fruity Riesling. For non-alcoholic options, lemonade or sparkling water with lime complement these savory bites perfectly.

Variations and Substitutions for Sausage Balls

  • Turkey or chicken sausage works great for a lighter version
  • Use gluten-free Bisquick for a gluten-free option
  • Swap Mexican cheese for sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or even smoked gouda
  • Try different Rotel varieties: Mild, Original, Hot, or Mexican style
  • Add finely diced jalapeños or bell peppers for extra texture

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

One of the best features of these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls is how well they store. Keep baked sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, place unbaked balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake frozen balls directly from the freezer, adding 3-4 minutes to the cooking time.

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Find it online: https://recipeshomely.com/rotel-cream-cheese-sausage-balls-recipe/