If you’re looking for a snack that packs a punch of flavor and is incredibly easy to whip up, the Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe is a total game-changer. These little bites bring together the creamy richness of softened cream cheese, the bold, savory kick from spicy breakfast sausage, and the zesty brightness of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. With a crispy, golden exterior and a tender, cheesy center, they’re the perfect party appetizer, game day treat, or anytime comfort food that’s guaranteed to disappear fast. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of your go-tos for any occasion!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential to create the perfect balance of flavors and texture in your Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe. Each one plays its part in adding creaminess, spice, fluffiness, and that irresistible cheesy goodness.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (ideally spicy): Provides the spicy, savory base and keeps the balls moist and juicy.
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened: Adds rich creaminess that binds the mixture together.
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained: Delivers a fresh, tangy, and slightly spicy bite in every mouthful.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey pockets, boosting the cheesy flavor and texture.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps hold everything together while giving structure to the sausage balls.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Adds a bit of lift for a lighter, fluffier bite.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses that classic savory aroma and extra depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level): Brings the heat that sets these sausage balls apart.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle, warm spice to finish it all off.
How to Make Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This setup not only makes cleanup a breeze but also ensures your sausage balls bake evenly without sticking.
Step 2: Mix Sausage and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the spicy breakfast sausage. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy fork, blend them together until you get a creamy, uniform mixture. This step is crucial as it creates the base texture for your sausage balls.
Step 3: Add Rotel Tomatoes and Chilies
Drain the Rotel tomatoes and green chilies well to avoid excess moisture, then fold them gently into the sausage and cream cheese mixture. This adds a zesty, savory pop of flavor that makes these sausage balls truly special.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese with the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. These dry ingredients bring structure, seasoning, and that cheesy goodness to the recipe.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Slowly add the dry mixture into the sausage mixture, stirring continuously until everything is combined into a cohesive dough. You want it firm enough to shape but soft enough to have a tender bite.
Step 6: Shape the Sausage Balls
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to ensure they cook uniformly and get that beautiful golden crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the sausage balls for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are cooked all the way through. The aroma during baking will definitely make your mouth water.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the sausage balls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. They can be enjoyed warm, offering gooey cheese and spicy meat in every bite, or at room temperature — ideal for parties or snack time.
How to Serve Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish can elevate your Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe instantly. Try sprinkling some freshly chopped cilantro or green onions on top for a fresh burst of color and flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of spicy ranch dressing on the side also makes a wonderful accompaniment.
Side Dishes
Serve these sausage balls alongside crunchy vegetable sticks like celery, carrots, or bell peppers for a refreshing contrast. They also pair beautifully with creamy coleslaw or a simple salad to balance out the richness. If you’re hosting a brunch, these are fantastic with biscuits or scrambled eggs.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the sausage balls in mini muffin tins for a neat, individual portion presentation. You can also thread them onto skewers alternating with cherry tomatoes and olives for a colorful appetizer platter. Wrapping them in bacon before baking adds an extra layer of indulgence that friends and family will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They keep their flavor and texture best when reheated gently.
Freezing
These sausage balls freeze beautifully before or after baking. To freeze uncooked, shape the balls, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. To freeze cooked sausage balls, allow them to cool completely and freeze in a single layer before storing in a container. They’ll last up to 3 months frozen.
Reheating
For the best results, gently reheat sausage balls in a 350°F oven until warmed through to preserve their crisp exterior. Alternatively, microwave on a low power setting for short bursts, but be mindful they may get softer.
FAQs
Can I use mild sausage instead of spicy?
Absolutely! If you prefer less heat, using mild sausage will still deliver fantastic flavor. You can always adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste to add the right amount of spice.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures one-to-one. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well for safe consumption.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Definitely! You can mix all ingredients a day in advance and store the dough in the refrigerator. Shape and bake the sausage balls just before serving for maximum freshness.
What if I don’t have Rotel tomatoes? Can I use something else?
If you don’t have Rotel, diced tomatoes with a bit of chopped green chilies or jalapeño peppers make a great substitute to maintain that spicy, tangy element.
Are these sausage balls suitable for freezing after baking?
Yes, you can freeze cooked sausage balls. Just make sure they’ve cooled completely before freezing, then reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe is one of those delightful bites that bring everyone together with ease and flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just craving something tasty to snack on, these sausage balls don’t disappoint. With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, you can have a batch ready in no time — so why not give it a try today? I promise you, your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 40m
- Yield: Approximately 24 sausage balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a deliciously creamy and cheesy appetizer featuring spicy breakfast sausage, cream cheese, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cheddar cheese. Baked to golden perfection, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you crave a savory, spicy snack.
Ingredients
Meat & Dairy
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (ideally spicy)
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Vegetables & Canned Goods
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
Dry Ingredients & Spices
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Mix Sausage and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and breakfast sausage. Use a hand mixer or fork to thoroughly blend the two until well combined and creamy.
- Add Rotel Tomatoes: Add the drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies to the mixture. Fold them into the sausage and cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the sausage mixture, stirring until everything is combined and forms a cohesive dough.
- Shape Sausage Balls: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level for milder or spicier sausage balls.
- Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Sausage balls can be made ahead and reheated in the oven before serving.
- Try adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch or spicy mustard for added taste.
