Easy Party Snacks

By: Casey Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 20:07:39 GMT Tasty Snacks
Casey, recipe creator at Cooking with Casey
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Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 20:07:39 GMT

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A plate of meatballs topped with melted cheese and sprinkled with fresh parsley. Pin it
A plate of meatballs topped with melted cheese and sprinkled with fresh parsley.

Let me share these amazing Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls that are always a hit at parties! I love how they combine creamy cream cheese spicy Rotel and savory sausage into perfect little bites. Whether it's game day brunch or any gathering these always disappear fast.

Simple But Special

What makes these sausage balls so wonderful is how easy they are to make while being packed with bold flavors. That crispy outside and creamy center gets everyone coming back for more. Plus you can adjust the heat level to make them just right for your crowd.

What You'll Need

  • The Stars:
    • Hot sausage (1 lb)
    • Soft cream cheese (8 oz)
    • Drained Rotel tomatoes
  • The Base:
    • Bisquick baking mix
    • Sharp cheddar cheese

Let's Start Rolling

Get Ready:
Heat your oven to 400°F line a baking sheet.
Mix with Love:
Combine sausage cream cheese and Rotel then mix in Bisquick and cheese.
Shape Your Balls:
Roll into 1-inch bites space them on your pan.
Bake to Golden:
Let them bake about 20-25 minutes until perfectly done.
Time to Share:
Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

My Best Tips

Make sure to drain that Rotel really well and get your cream cheese nice and soft. If the mixture gets too sticky just pop it in the fridge for a few minutes. Want them extra crispy? Use a wire rack when baking.

A platter full of meatballs topped with melted cheese and a tomato sauce.
A platter full of meatballs topped with melted cheese and a tomato sauce.

Perfect Pairings

I love serving these with ranch dressing or salsa for dipping. They're amazing for breakfast alongside scrambled eggs or as part of a game day spread. Cold drinks like iced tea beer or lemonade go perfectly with them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the balls and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours, or freeze them for up to 3 months before baking.

Why is my mixture too wet?

Make sure to drain the Rotel thoroughly. If still too wet, add a bit more Bisquick or chill the mixture before shaping.

Can I use turkey sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage works well. Just make sure it's well-seasoned as it can be less flavorful than pork sausage.

How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, substitute regular Bisquick with gluten-free Bisquick mix. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

4.27 from 243 votes

Sausage Balls

Prep Time:
15 Minutes
Cook Time:
25 Minutes
Total Time:
40 Minutes
Servings:
36
A plate of meatballs topped with melted cheese and sprinkled with fresh parsley.

Savory sausage balls made with cream cheese, Rotel tomatoes, and Bisquick, perfect for parties or game day snacking.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb hot sausage, uncooked.
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened.
  • 10 oz Rotel diced tomatoes and chilies, drained.
  • 1¾ cups Bisquick baking mix.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.

Instructions

1.

1. Preheat: Preheat oven to 400°F.

2.

2. Mix Ingredients: Mix sausage, cream cheese, and drained Rotel.

3.

3. Add Bisquick And Cheese: Add Bisquick and cheddar cheese.

4.

4. Form Balls: Form into 1-inch balls.

5.

5. Place On Baking Sheet: Place on baking sheet.

6.

6. Bake: Bake 20-25 minutes until golden.

7.

7. Serve: Serve warm.

Notes

  1. Can use mild sausage or Rotel for less heat.
  2. Drain Rotel well to avoid wet mixture.
  3. Chill if too sticky to shape.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl.
  • Baking sheet.
  • Cookie scoop (optional).
  • Measuring cups.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Milk (cream cheese, cheddar).
  • Wheat (Bisquick).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 85
  • Total Fat: 6 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 4 g
  • Protein: 4 g