Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls: A Savory Appetizer Recipe

Looking to add a zesty twist to your next brunch or game day spread? Look no further than these irresistible Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls! This recipe combines the rich creaminess of softened cream cheese, the sharpness of cheddar cheese, and the bold flavors of spicy breakfast sausage and canned tomatoes and green chilies for a winning combination that is sure to please any crowd.

I can’t help but smile every time I make these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. Not only are they a hit with my family and friends, but they are also a joy to prepare. From rolling the perfect bite-sized morsels to savoring the laughter-filled moments in the kitchen, these sausage balls are more than just a recipe – they are a memory in the making.

Whether you serve them with a side of honey mustard or add them to a breakfast board, these sausage balls are versatile, delicious, and guaranteed to disappear fast. With their make-ahead convenience and mouthwatering taste, these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a modern twist on a classic Southern favorite that will have everyone coming back for more.

Quick Benefits

• Perfect crowd-pleasers for brunch or game day spread
• Make-ahead and freezer-friendly for convenience
• Customizable with different types of sausage and cheese for varied flavors
• Easy to reheat in the oven or microwave for quick enjoyment

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls: A Savory Appetizer Recipe Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of zesty sausage, creamy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and Rotel tomatoes creates a flavor-packed bite that will leave you craving more.
• Crowd Pleaser: These sausage balls are a hit at any gathering – from brunch to game day parties. Your family and friends will devour them in no time, just like the blogger’s family and potluck guests did!
• Customizable: You can adjust the level of spiciness by using different types of sausage or cheese. Experiment with different cheeses like Colby jack or Monterey jack for a unique twist.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These sausage balls can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for last-minute guests or quick snacks. Just pop them in the oven or microwave to reheat.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these sausage balls with dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch, add them to a breakfast board, pack them in a lunchbox, or enjoy them as picnic finger food. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients for Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls: A Savory Appetizer Recipe

Sausage Ball Mixture

• 454 grams spicy breakfast sausage, uncooked
• 200 grams shredded cheddar cheese
• 284 grams canned tomatoes and green chilies (drained)
• 190 grams Bisquick baking mix
• 227 grams cream cheese, softened

Pro Tips for Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls: A Savory Appetizer Recipe

Pro Tip 1: Opt for the spiciest breakfast sausage available to give these sausage balls a flavorful kick. The combination of spicy sausage, cream cheese, cheddar, and Rotel tomatoes creates a deliciously zesty bite that your guests will love.

Pro Tip 2: To ensure easy clean-up, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat before baking the sausage balls. This will prevent sticking and make for a hassle-free release from the pan, keeping your sausage balls intact and looking perfect.

Pro Tip 3: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist, or try Italian sausage for a different taste profile. Additionally, prepare the sausage ball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for future use, allowing for convenient baking whenever needed.

How to Make Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls: A Savory Appetizer Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 190°C and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Combine Base Ingredients

Combine uncooked sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained tomatoes with green chilies in a large mixing bowl. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Cheese and Baking Mix

Gently mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and Bisquick baking mix until well combined and cohesive.

Step 4: Shape Sausage Balls

Use a heaping tablespoon to scoop the mixture and form into 2.5 cm balls. Place on the baking sheet with space between each ball.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Take out of the oven and let cool briefly on the baking sheet before moving to a serving platter.

Storage Tips

Once you have made the delicious Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a low oven or microwave until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze the sausage balls by arranging them on a tray so they don’t touch each other. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed bag. These frozen sausage balls can be a handy option to have on hand for last-minute guests or quick snacks.

If you want to customize the recipe, you can swap the spicy breakfast sausage with mild sausage for a milder flavor. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheeses like Colby jack, pepper jack, or Monterey jack to vary the taste and texture. If you don’t have Bisquick baking mix, you can use a mixture of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt as a substitute. These sausage balls can be served with dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a milder option, swap the spicy breakfast sausage with mild breakfast sausage or try Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. This can cater to different preferences, especially for those who prefer less heat in their dishes.

If you don’t have Bisquick baking mix on hand, you can make a substitute by combining all-purpose flour with a bit of baking powder and a pinch of salt. This DIY option works well in a pinch and will still provide the necessary structure to the sausage balls.

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like Colby jack, pepper jack, or Monterey jack to vary the flavor and texture of the sausage balls. This can add a fun twist and allow you to customize the dish based on your preferences or what you have available in your pantry.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion with these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, try skewering them with toothpicks and arranging them on a platter with small cups of honey mustard and ranch dressing for dipping. This presentation is perfect for game day gatherings or casual brunches, allowing guests to easily grab a delicious bite-sized snack.

Another fun way to serve these sausage balls is by creating a breakfast board. Arrange the sausage balls on a platter alongside mini bagels, fresh fruit, and some slices of cheese. This interactive and visually appealing spread is perfect for a family brunch or picnic, allowing everyone to customize their plates with a variety of flavors and textures.

FAQs for Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls: A Savory Appetizer Recipe

Can I use mild sausage instead of spicy sausage in this recipe?

Yes, mild sausage works well if you prefer less heat. The flavor will still be robust due to the cheeses and Rotel.

Is there a way to prevent the sausage balls from sticking to the baking sheet?

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking for easy release and clean-up.

Can I prepare the sausage ball mixture ahead of time and bake later?

Absolutely. Prepare and shape the mixture, then refrigerate or freeze before baking. Simply bake when ready to serve.

Can I substitute cheddar cheese with other types of cheese in this recipe?

You can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a cheese blend for variety in flavor and texture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful addition to any gathering, be it a casual brunch or a lively game day spread. The spicy kick from the sausage, the creamy richness of the cream cheese, and the zesty pop of Rotel tomatoes blend together to create a flavor explosion that will have your guests coming back for more.

Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to suit your preferences – from swapping out the sausage for a milder version to experimenting with different cheese varieties, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re serving them at a potluck, packing them for a picnic, or simply enjoying them as a snack, these sausage balls are sure to be a hit. So whip up a batch of Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls and get ready to watch them disappear in no time!

Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls: A Savory Appetizer Recipe

“Zesty Rotel cream cheese sausage balls, a modern twist on a Southern classic, make the perfect savory bite for brunch, game day, or any gathering.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 Minutes

Cook Time25 Minutes

Total Time40 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings24 Servings (Approximately 24 sausage balls)

Ingredients

Sausage Ball Mixture

• 454 grams spicy breakfast sausage, uncooked
• 200 grams shredded cheddar cheese
• 284 grams canned tomatoes and green chilies (drained)
• 190 grams Bisquick baking mix
• 227 grams cream cheese, softened

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 190°C and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Combine Base Ingredients: Combine uncooked sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained tomatoes with green chilies in a large mixing bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Incorporate Cheese and Baking Mix: Gently mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and Bisquick baking mix until well combined and cohesive.
4. Shape Sausage Balls: Use a heaping tablespoon to scoop the mixture and form into 2.5 cm balls. Place on the baking sheet with space between each ball.
5. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Cool and Serve: Take out of the oven and let cool briefly on the baking sheet before moving to a serving platter.