Creamy Cheese Sausage Balls Your Guests Will Love

About Rotel Sausage Ball Recipe

Learn about this tasty appetizer.

The Rotel sausage ball recipe is a beloved classic, especially popular in Southern cuisine, known for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. This savory appetizer marries the hearty goodness of breakfast sausage with the tangy kick of Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies) and the rich creaminess of various cheeses. It’s more than just a snack; it’s a comforting bite that evokes warmth and hospitality. The addition of Rotel provides a unique zing that distinguishes these particular sausage balls from their plainer counterparts, making them a vibrant appetizer that consistently impresses. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a holiday brunch, or just looking for a delicious treat, these creamy cheese sausage balls are guaranteed to be a hit. Their versatility and universally appealing taste make them a staple in many households, often passed down through generations.

Quick facts: time and servings.

Making a batch of these best sausage balls won’t consume your entire day. Typically, the preparation time ranges from just 15 to 20 minutes, provided your cream cheese is softened and ready to go. The baking time adds another 20-25 minutes, bringing the total time from start to finish to under an hour. This makes the Rotel sausage ball recipe an excellent choice for impromptu gatherings or busy mornings when you need a quick yet satisfying option. A standard recipe usually yields between 30 to 40 individual sausage balls, depending on their size. This quantity is perfect for serving a small crowd as a party appetizer, offering about 6-8 servings. For larger events, it’s incredibly easy to double or triple the recipe, ensuring there are plenty of these delightful bites for everyone. They are simple, fast, and always a favorite.

Gather Ingredients for Sausage Balls

All you need for cooking.

To create these delightful creamy cheese sausage balls, you’ll need a few key components. The foundation is a pound of good quality breakfast sausage, preferably hot or mild depending on your preference for spice. Next, an 8-ounce block of cream cheese is crucial for that signature creamy texture, ensuring your sausage balls are tender and moist. A can of Rotel, drained well, will introduce that characteristic zesty, slightly spicy flavor. You’ll also need about 1 ½ to 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese for a rich, cheesy depth that complements the other ingredients perfectly. All-purpose flour acts as a binder, helping the mixture hold its shape during baking. Finally, a touch of garlic powder and onion powder enhances the savory profile, while a pinch of salt and black pepper balances the flavors. Having these ingredients ready will set you on the path to making the best sausage balls.

Pantry staples for this recipe.

One of the best aspects of this easy sausage ball recipe is that many of the ingredients are common pantry staples. You likely already have all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in your spice cabinet. Shredded cheddar cheese is often found in refrigerators, ready for various meals like a hearty creamy baked mac and cheese. Even breakfast sausage and cream cheese are regular grocery list items for many households. The only item you might need to specifically grab is the can of Rotel, which is readily available in most supermarkets. This accessibility makes the Rotel sausage ball recipe an ideal go-to for last-minute entertaining or a spontaneous craving. Utilizing everyday ingredients ensures that these flavorful bites are not only delicious but also convenient to prepare, proving that exceptional taste doesn’t require exotic or hard-to-find components.

Preparing Creamy Cheese Sausage Balls

Soften your cream cheese.

The first and perhaps most critical step in preparing creamy cheese sausage balls is ensuring your cream cheese is properly softened. Cold cream cheese will be difficult to incorporate smoothly into the mixture, leading to lumps and an uneven texture. To achieve the ideal consistency, remove the cream cheese from its packaging and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 to 60 minutes. If you’re short on time, you can carefully soften it in the microwave. Unwrap the cream cheese and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it on low power (e.g., 50%) for 10-15 second intervals, checking and flipping it each time, until it’s pliable and easily mashable, but not melted. This initial step guarantees a smooth, well-combined batter, which is key to making the best sausage balls with a delightful, consistent creaminess throughout.

Combine sausage and cream cheese.

Once your cream cheese is perfectly softened, it’s time to begin the mixing process. In a large mixing bowl, crumble your pound of breakfast sausage. If using pre-cooked sausage, ensure it’s fully thawed and cooled. Add the softened cream cheese to the bowl with the sausage. Now comes the hands-on part: using your clean hands, thoroughly mix the sausage and cream cheese together. This step requires a bit of effort to ensure both ingredients are fully integrated. You want to break down any large pieces of cream cheese and distribute it evenly throughout the sausage. The mixture should become uniform in color and texture, without distinct pockets of either ingredient. This combination forms the creamy base for your Rotel sausage ball recipe, providing the rich, moist foundation that makes these bites so irresistible. Proper mixing here sets the stage for a truly flavorful and well-textured end product.

Mixing Flavors into Sausage Balls

Add Rotel, cheddar, and flour.

After successfully combining the sausage and cream cheese, it’s time to infuse the mixture with its distinctive flavors. First, add the well-drained can of Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies). It’s crucial that the Rotel is thoroughly drained to prevent excess moisture from making the sausage balls too wet, which could affect their texture and ability to hold shape. Next, incorporate the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This cheese adds a robust, tangy flavor and contributes to the overall creaminess once baked. Finally, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. The flour acts as a binder, helping to hold all the ingredients together and giving the sausage balls their structure. Gently fold these ingredients into the sausage and cream cheese base. You can continue to use your hands for this, ensuring everything is evenly distributed. Don’t overmix, but ensure all components are well integrated before moving on to the next step of enhancing the taste.

Spice it up with powders.

With the core ingredients mixed, it’s time to layer in additional savory depth. This is where your seasoning powders come into play, elevating the flavor profile of your easy sausage ball recipe. Add a teaspoon of garlic powder and a teaspoon of onion powder to the mixture. These powders provide a foundational savory taste that complements the sausage, Rotel, and cheddar. Depending on your preference, you might also add a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper. For those who enjoy a little more heat, a tiny sprinkle of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can introduce an extra kick without overpowering the other flavors. Mix these spices thoroughly into the dough. Again, use your hands to ensure the seasonings are evenly dispersed throughout the entire batch, creating a consistently flavorful bite in every Rotel sausage ball. This step is essential for crafting the best sausage balls with a complex and satisfying taste.

Shaping and Baking Sausage Balls

Roll perfect uniform balls.

Achieving uniform creamy cheese sausage balls is key for even cooking and an appealing presentation. Once your mixture is thoroughly combined, take small portions—about 1 tablespoon or a golf-ball size—and roll them between your palms to form neat, compact spheres. Aim for consistency in size to ensure they all bake at the same rate. If the mixture feels too sticky, you can lightly flour your hands or chill the mixture briefly in the refrigerator to make it easier to handle. A small cookie scoop or a melon baller can also be incredibly helpful in portioning out the mixture evenly, which is a chef’s secret for perfectly sized sausage balls. Arrange the rolled balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each to allow for proper air circulation during baking. This attention to detail will lead to beautifully golden and consistently cooked results, making these truly the best sausage balls for any occasion.

Preheat oven and line sheet.

Before you even begin shaping your Rotel sausage ball recipe, it’s crucial to preheat your oven to the recommended temperature, usually around 350°F (175°C). A properly preheated oven ensures that the sausage balls start baking immediately at the correct temperature, leading to a consistent cook and desired texture. While the oven preheats, prepare your baking sheet. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This step is essential for preventing the sausage balls from sticking to the pan, and it also makes cleanup significantly easier. The parchment paper also helps in achieving a nice, even browning on the bottom of the sausage balls. Avoid greasing the pan directly, as the sausage will release its own fat during cooking, and extra oil might make them too greasy. Proper preparation of your baking surface is a small but important step towards delicious outcomes.

Bake until golden brown.

With your oven preheated and your uniform creamy cheese sausage balls arranged on the lined baking sheet, it’s time to bake. Place the baking sheet in the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. The exact baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your sausage balls, so keep an eye on them. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color on the exterior of the sausage balls. They should also feel firm to the touch. If you have an instant-read thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure the sausage is fully cooked. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the sausage balls and diminish their creamy texture. Once they’ve reached that perfect golden hue, carefully remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This brief cooling period helps them set and prevents them from breaking apart when moved, preparing them for perfect serving.

Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls

Ensure soft cream cheese.

As previously mentioned, the consistency of your cream cheese is paramount for this Rotel sausage ball recipe. If your cream cheese is too cold and firm, it won’t blend smoothly with the sausage, resulting in lumpy pockets of cheese rather than a uniform, creamy mixture. This can lead to dry spots or an inconsistent texture in the final product. Always plan ahead and allow ample time for the cream cheese to come to room temperature. A properly softened block will mix effortlessly, creating a cohesive dough that is easy to roll and bakes up beautifully, ensuring every bite of your easy sausage ball recipe is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Do not overmix batter.

While thorough mixing is important to combine all ingredients, overmixing the sausage ball batter can lead to a tough and dense texture. Once the ingredients are just combined and uniform, stop mixing. Overworking the flour can develop gluten, which is desirable in bread but not in tender sausage balls. Gentle handling ensures that the creamy texture from the cream cheese remains intact and the sausage balls stay light and tender. Use your hands to gently knead and combine until everything is just incorporated, allowing the natural softness of the ingredients to shine through in your creamy cheese sausage balls.

Cool slightly before serving.

It can be tempting to devour these delicious sausage balls straight from the oven, but allowing them to cool slightly before serving is a crucial tip for the best experience. Hot out of the oven, the interior can be extremely hot, and the texture might be a bit too soft to handle. Letting them rest on the baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes allows them to firm up slightly and cool down to a more palatable temperature. This brief cooling period also helps the flavors meld further and the cheese to set, making them easier to pick up and enjoy. Warm, rather than piping hot, these creamy cheese sausage balls truly deliver their best flavor and texture, whether as a main course accompaniment or a party appetizer.

Variations for Your Sausage Balls

Try different cheeses or meats.

The beauty of the Rotel sausage ball recipe lies in its adaptability. While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses to alter the flavor profile. Monterey Jack offers a milder, meltier texture, while pepper jack will amplify the spicy kick from the Rotel. A blend of mozzarella and provolone can give them an Italian-inspired twist. For a richer, more complex taste, consider adding a touch of grated Parmesan cheese. Beyond cheese, you can also vary the meat. Instead of traditional breakfast sausage, try using spicy Italian sausage for an bolder flavor, or ground turkey sausage for a leaner option. Just ensure any alternative meat is seasoned appropriately. These simple swaps allow you to customize your creamy cheese sausage balls to suit different preferences and dietary needs, making them truly versatile.

Add extra spice or herbs.

For those who love a bit more pizzazz, personalizing the spice and herb blend is an excellent way to put your stamp on this easy sausage ball recipe. If the Rotel alone isn’t enough heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce to the mixture, or even finely diced jalapeños for a fresh, fiery burst. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can use a can of mild Rotel or even plain diced tomatoes and add a touch of chili powder for flavor without excessive heat. Fresh or dried herbs can also elevate the taste. Chopped fresh parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of dried Italian seasoning can introduce new aromatic dimensions. Imagine a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone or a dash of celery salt for added depth. These additions will ensure your Rotel sausage ball recipe perfectly matches your palate, crafting the best sausage balls tailored just for you.

Gluten-free options are possible.

For those following a gluten-free diet, enjoying delicious creamy cheese sausage balls is absolutely achievable with a simple substitution. The primary ingredient containing gluten in the traditional recipe is all-purpose flour. To make your Rotel sausage ball recipe gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Many brands offer “1-to-1” or “cup-for-cup” gluten-free flour blends that are specifically designed to be used in equal measure as regular flour in recipes like this. Ensure the blend you choose contains xanthan gum, or add a quarter teaspoon per cup of flour, as this helps with binding and texture, mimicking the role of gluten. Always double-check the labels of your other ingredients, such as the sausage and spices, to ensure they are certified gluten-free. With this easy modification, everyone can savor these delicious sausage balls, making them an inclusive party appetizer.

Chef’s Secrets for Great Sausage Balls

Add Worcestershire for depth.

One of the best-kept chef’s secrets for enhancing the savory depth of any meat dish, including this Rotel sausage ball recipe, is a splash of Worcestershire sauce. A mere teaspoon or two added to the mixture can introduce a subtle umami flavor that elevates the overall taste without being overtly detectable. Worcestershire sauce brings a complex blend of tangy, sweet, and savory notes, which complements the richness of the sausage and cheese perfectly. It acts as a flavor enhancer, making your creamy cheese sausage balls taste more robust and sophisticated. Simply mix it in along with your other seasonings, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough. This small addition makes a significant difference, transforming a simple recipe into something truly memorable and cementing its status as the best sausage balls you’ll ever make.

Use scoop for uniform size.

For professional-looking and evenly cooked sausage balls, a chef’s tip is to use a small cookie scoop or a mini ice cream scoop to portion out the mixture. This ensures that each sausage ball is of a consistent size, which is vital for uniform baking. When all balls are the same size, they cook at the same rate, preventing some from being undercooked while others are overdone. Beyond even cooking, uniform size also creates a more appealing presentation, which is especially important when serving them as a party appetizer. A scoop also makes the process faster and less messy than rolling each ball by hand, streamlining your preparation time. Investing in a small scoop is a game-changer for this easy sausage ball recipe, guaranteeing consistent perfection every time.

Broil for extra crispiness.

If you love a little extra texture on your creamy cheese sausage balls, a quick broil at the end of baking is a fantastic chef’s secret. After your sausage balls are baked through and golden brown, you can place them under the broiler for 1-3 minutes. Keep a very close eye on them, as broilers can quickly go from perfectly browned to burnt. The high heat of the broiler will give the exterior of the sausage balls a delightfully crispy crust, adding a layer of texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy interior. This technique works particularly well if you’re serving them immediately and want that fresh-out-of-the-oven crunch. It’s a simple trick to take your Rotel sausage ball recipe from great to absolutely exceptional, especially for those who appreciate a crispier bite.

Make Ahead Creamy Cheese Sausage Balls

Prep mixture up to 24 hours.

One of the many advantages of this Rotel sausage ball recipe is its make-ahead potential, making it a fantastic option for entertaining or busy weekdays. You can prepare the entire sausage ball mixture—combining all ingredients—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix everything together as directed, then instead of rolling, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld even further, potentially enhancing the taste of your creamy cheese sausage balls. Prepping the mixture ahead means that when it’s time to cook, all you need to do is roll the balls and bake, significantly cutting down on your active cooking time on the day of your event or meal. This convenience makes it an ideal party appetizer or a quick breakfast option.

Refrigerate for easy baking.

Whether you’ve prepared the mixture ahead of time or rolled your sausage balls and aren’t ready to bake them yet, refrigerating is an excellent option for easy baking later. Once the mixture is combined, you can roll the individual creamy cheese sausage balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a platter. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Chilling the formed balls not only keeps them fresh but also helps them firm up, making them less likely to spread during baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply arrange them on a baking sheet and proceed with the baking instructions. You might need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if they are going directly from the fridge into the oven. This method is perfect for effortless entertaining or ensuring you have a quick, satisfying breakfast ready to go in the morning, solidifying its status as an easy sausage ball recipe.

Storing Leftover Sausage Balls

Keep in fridge for days.

If you happen to have any of these delicious creamy cheese sausage balls leftover (a rare occurrence!), they store wonderfully in the refrigerator. Once completely cooled, place the sausage balls in an airtight container. They will keep fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This makes them perfect for grab-and-go snacks, quick breakfasts, or even as part of a packed lunch. To reheat, you can use a microwave for a quick warm-up, or for a crispier exterior, pop them back into a preheated oven (around 300°F/150°C) or an air fryer for 5-10 minutes until heated through. Storing them properly ensures you can enjoy the deliciousness of your Rotel sausage ball recipe for several days after baking, extending their life as a convenient and tasty treat.

Freezing for three months.

For longer-term storage, the Rotel sausage ball recipe is incredibly freezer-friendly, both before and after baking. To freeze unbaked sausage balls, roll them as usual and arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours), then transfer the frozen balls to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, you can bake them directly from frozen, adding about 5-10 minutes to the baking time. For already baked sausage balls, allow them to cool completely, then follow the same freezing process. Reheat frozen baked sausage balls in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This freezing option makes it easy to always have a supply of these best sausage balls on hand for impromptu gatherings or busy mornings.

Serving Creamy Cheese Sausage Balls

Perfect party appetizer ideas.

Creamy cheese sausage balls are undeniably a crowd-pleasing party appetizer. Their bite-sized nature and savory flavor make them ideal for any social gathering, from casual game nights to elegant holiday parties. Arrange them beautifully on a platter, perhaps garnished with some fresh parsley or chives, to add a touch of color. They pair wonderfully with other finger foods and dips. Consider serving them alongside a cheese board, a bowl of crispy vegetable sticks, or even other hearty appetizers to create a diverse spread. Their universal appeal ensures that they will be among the first items to disappear from your serving table, always a hit with guests. For more inspiration on delicious culinary creations, check out Carina Recipes on Pinterest.

Great with various dipping sauces.

While delicious on their own, Rotel sausage balls are even better when served with an array of dipping sauces. The right sauce can elevate the flavors and offer a personalized experience for your guests. Classic choices include honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a sweet and spicy chili sauce. For a zesty kick, consider a homemade remoulade or a creamy sriracha aioli. A simple marinara sauce can also provide a comforting, Italian-inspired twist. Offering a few different options allows everyone to find their perfect pairing, adding an interactive element to your party appetizer spread. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your sauce choices; even a simple ketchup or barbecue sauce can be a winner. These easy sausage balls truly shine when accompanied by a complementary dip.

Enjoy as hearty breakfast.

Beyond being a fantastic party appetizer, creamy cheese sausage balls also make for an incredibly hearty and convenient breakfast option. Their blend of protein, cheese, and a hint of spice provides a satisfying start to the day. You can prepare a batch on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week for a quick grab-and-go meal. Pair them with a fresh fruit salad, a side of scrambled eggs, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a well-rounded breakfast. They are also excellent served with a strong cup of coffee or a glass of orange juice. Their make-ahead potential and easy reheating instructions make them a lifesaver on busy mornings when you crave something more substantial than cereal. Follow Carina Recipes on Instagram for more delicious breakfast ideas.

Creamy Cheese Sausage Balls Your Guests Will Love

Your ultimate party hit.

When it comes to entertaining, you want dishes that are both delicious and fuss-free, and the Rotel sausage ball recipe perfectly fits the bill. These creamy cheese sausage balls are not just a snack; they are a statement. Their vibrant flavor profile, combining savory sausage with the zesty punch of Rotel and the comforting creaminess of cheese, ensures they stand out. They are effortlessly elegant yet incredibly comforting, making them suitable for any event, from casual backyard BBQs to more formal holiday gatherings. The ease of preparation, coupled with their make-ahead capabilities, reduces stress on the host, allowing you to enjoy your own party. Serve them warm, and watch as your guests rave about these irresistible bites. They will become your signature party appetizer, guaranteed to be requested time and time again.

A crowd-pleasing favorite.

There’s a reason why this easy sausage ball recipe has endured as a classic: it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of familiar flavors in a convenient, bite-sized form makes them universally appealing to people of all ages. Kids love them for their savory taste, and adults appreciate their satisfying texture and versatility. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a breakfast item, or a casual snack, these best sausage balls rarely have any leftovers. Their ability to be made in advance and reheated without compromising quality further enhances their appeal. With this recipe, you’re not just making food; you’re creating a memorable experience that brings people together. Prepare yourself for compliments and requests for the recipe, because these creamy cheese sausage balls are truly a favorite that will leave a lasting impression on everyone who tastes them.