When it comes to crowd-pleasing appetizers, Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls reign supreme. Golden, cheesy, and packed with savory sausage flavor, these bite-sized treats are perfect for game day, holiday parties, or casual get-togethers. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a warm, cheesy snack that disappears in minutes.

This recipe combines rich cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and flavorful Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, all bound together with savory sausage and a touch of flour for structure. The result is a light, fluffy, yet crunchy exterior with a tender, cheesy center — a perfect balance that will leave guests coming back for more.

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) bulk breakfast sausage
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilies, drained
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or extra shredded cheese

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Mix sausage and cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until evenly combined. A hand mixer or stand mixer on low works well.
Add shredded cheddar and Rotel, stirring gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Combine dry ingredients: in a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Mix dry into wet ingredients gradually, using a spoon or spatula. The mixture should be sticky but moldable.
Form balls about 1–1.5 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Optionally, broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crispiness.
Cool slightly on a wire rack for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or extra cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Tips for the Perfect Sausage Balls

Cheese choices: Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor; mix in Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier bite.
Sausage selection: Bulk breakfast sausage works best. Avoid casing sausages, as they need to be crumbled.
Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a slightly spicy version.
Size matters: Keep your balls uniform in size to ensure even cooking. A small cookie scoop makes this easy.

Variations

Bacon Lover’s Twist: Mix in ½ cup cooked crumbled bacon for an extra smoky flavor.
Cheese Burst: Stuff each ball with a tiny cube of extra cheese before baking for a gooey surprise.
Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, or chives for aromatic notes.
Mini Meatballs: Make smaller bite-sized portions for cocktail parties or kid-friendly snacks.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy aioli for dipping.
Perfect alongside a charcuterie board with crackers, fruits, and pickles.
Ideal for tailgating parties, holiday gatherings, or casual game nights.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Sausage balls have been a Southern party staple for decades. Traditionally made with cheese, sausage, and flour, the addition of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies gives this version a zesty twist, adding moisture, flavor, and a hint of spice. These appetizers are a reflection of the American South’s love for comfort food — quick, hearty, and perfect for sharing.