Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are little bites of cheesy, spicy goodness that always bring a smile. These balls combine savory sausage, tangy Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, and…
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Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are little bites of cheesy, spicy goodness that always bring a smile. These balls combine savory sausage, tangy Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, and creamy cream cheese for a perfect mix of flavors and a bit of a kick. They’re soft on the inside with just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting.
I love making these sausage balls for get-togethers and game days because they’re super easy to pop in the oven and even easier to eat. One of my favorite things about them is how the cream cheese melts into the sausage, making every bite moist and flavorful. Plus, that spicy Rotel tomato bit adds a little surprise that keeps everyone guessing and asking for more.
These sausage balls are great served warm right out of the oven, but I also think they taste amazing with a little ranch or sour cream on the side. I’ve brought these to several parties, and they always disappear fast. If you’re looking for a simple, tasty snack that mixes creamy, spicy, and savory elements, this recipe is a winner in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Sausage: Using breakfast sausage adds great flavor and fat for moisture. If you want less spice, go with mild sausage or swap for ground turkey for a lighter option.
Cream Cheese: This makes the sausage balls creamy and helps bind the mixture. Softening it first is key. Neufchâtel cheese can be used as a lower-fat alternative.
Rotel Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This gives a spicy, tangy kick. If you can’t find Rotel, diced tomatoes plus some chopped green chili peppers or jalapeños work well.
Biscuit Mix: Acts as a binder and adds softness. You can substitute with plain flour and baking powder (1 ½ cups flour plus 1 ½ tsp baking powder) if you don’t have biscuit mix.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang and melts well. Feel free to try pepper jack for extra heat or mild cheddar for less spice.
How Do You Make Sure the Sausage Balls Stay Moist but Cook Thoroughly?
Balancing moisture and cooking the sausage balls evenly is important for great texture:
- Mix well: Combine sausage and cream cheese thoroughly so the cheese coats the meat evenly.
- Don’t overmix: Stir until just combined to avoid tough bites.
- Shape uniform balls: Use a cookie scoop or your hands to make balls the same size for even cooking.
- Bake at consistent temperature: Oven at 375°F (190°C) ensures sausages cook thoroughly without drying out.
- Check internal temp: They should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe eating.
- Let them rest: Cooling a few minutes on the tray helps juices redistribute.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – provides a flat surface for even cooking and easy cleanup.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – prevents sticking and makes cleanup simple.
- Mixing bowl – large enough to combine all ingredients comfortably.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – helps you form evenly sized sausage balls quickly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep ingredient amounts accurate for best results.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use spicy chorizo instead of breakfast sausage for a smoky, bold flavor.
- Stir in chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Add shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different cheesy twist.
- Mix in finely chopped cooked spinach or kale to boost the veggie content without overpowering flavors.
How to Make Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground breakfast sausage (spicy or regular)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 10 oz (1 can) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 ½ cups biscuit mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25 to 30 minutes to bake, so around 35-40 minutes total. It’s a quick and easy snack to throw together when guests arrive or when you’re craving something tasty and spicy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or just lightly grease it so the sausage balls don’t stick.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a big bowl, combine the ground sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix until they are blended well. Then add shredded cheddar cheese, drained Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, biscuit mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it is nicely combined and sticky enough to hold shape.
3. Shape the Sausage Balls:
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls. Place them evenly on the baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each ball for even cooking.
4. Bake to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. They should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through. Once done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if you like, then serve warm. They’re perfect on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch. Enjoy these spicy, cheesy, creamy bites with friends or family!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the sausage in the refrigerator overnight before mixing. This helps it blend evenly with the cream cheese and other ingredients.
Can I Make Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can form the sausage balls and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake them straight from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftover Sausage Balls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep them crispy on the outside.
Can I Substitute Biscuit Mix?
Yes, you can use a homemade biscuit mix substitute by combining 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder and ½ teaspoon salt. This works well in place of store-bought biscuit mix.
