Nothing brings people together quite like a plate of warm, cheesy appetizers fresh from the oven. If you’re looking for a versatile, crowd-pleasing snack that can be served during family gatherings, game nights, or holiday celebrations, these Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls are the perfect choice. Their simplicity in both preparation and flavor makes them an ideal option for hosts and guests alike. Packed with the richness of cheddar cheese, the subtle heat of diced tomatoes and green chilies, and the savory satisfaction of ground sausage, these bite-sized treats are guaranteed to disappear in minutes. In this recipe, you’ll discover just how easy it is to whip up a batch of these mouthwatering morsels. From selecting your sausage—mild or spicy—to deciding whether to add a sprinkling of extra cheese on top, you can tailor the recipe to suit any preference. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these sausage balls offer a straightforward way to impress everyone around your table. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into the world of flavor that these Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls have to offer.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: About 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground sausage: You can use mild or spicy sausage, depending on your preferred level of heat.
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies: Make sure to drain them well to prevent excess moisture.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Softening the cream cheese makes it easier to blend with the sausage and other ingredients.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts more smoothly and offers a richer flavor.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This helps bind all the ingredients together and gives structure to the sausage balls.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Adds a little lift, helping the sausage balls puff up slightly.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Contributes a subtle yet savory note.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Enhances overall flavor without requiring chopped onions.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances the taste and brings out the savory elements of the sausage and cheese.
- ½ tsp black pepper: For gentle heat and aromatic depth.
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional): Use if you enjoy an extra kick of spice.
- 1 cup shredded cheese for topping (optional): Sprinkle on top before baking to form a golden crust.
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Allow it to heat fully while you prepare the sausage mixture. A properly preheated oven ensures even cooking and a nice golden exterior on the sausage balls.
Combine Sausage and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground sausage and softened cream cheese. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix them together until they form a cohesive mixture. If you’re using your hands, consider wearing gloves to keep things tidy.
Add the Rotel and Seasonings
Drain your Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies thoroughly to remove excess liquid. Stir them into the sausage and cream cheese mixture. Next, add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Mixing these ingredients now helps distribute the flavors evenly throughout the sausage balls.
Incorporate Flour and Baking Powder
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Slowly add this dry mixture to the sausage mixture, stirring until well combined. The flour mixture binds everything together, so make sure it is fully incorporated.
Fold in the Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Gently fold in the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed to guarantee every sausage ball bakes up cheesy and delicious.
Shape the Sausage Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into balls approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, leaving a little space between each ball to allow for even cooking.
Optional: Top with Extra Cheese
If you want a cheesy crust, sprinkle a little shredded cheese over each sausage ball. This step is completely optional but adds a nice finishing touch.
Bake
Transfer your baking sheet to the preheated oven. Let the sausage balls cook for 20 to 25 minutes or until they appear golden and slightly crisp on the outside. The interior should be fully cooked, so you can test one to ensure it’s no longer pink.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the sausage balls rest for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. They are best served warm with your favorite dipping sauces—ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or even a classic marinara.
These Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls are a testament to how a few simple ingredients, combined thoughtfully, can yield impressive results. Their moist, tender texture and bold flavor profile make them an irresistible addition to any gathering. Thanks to the variety of customizations—whether you choose mild or spicy sausage, and whether you add that extra cheese on top—you can easily adapt this recipe for any palate. Beyond parties and potlucks, these sausage balls can also serve as a quick breakfast option when paired with scrambled eggs or a side of fresh fruit. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, their savory, cheesy charm never fails to delight. Once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why they’ve become a go-to recipe for so many home cooks. Enjoy every last morsel, and don’t be surprised if your guests ask for the recipe!