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Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls – The Ultimate Game Day Appetizer

These Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are everything a game day appetizer should be—savory, cheesy, slightly spicy, and incredibly addictive. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they’re packed with bold flavor from seasoned sausage, sharp cheddar, and zesty Rotel tomatoes with green chilies. Perfect for parties, potlucks, and snack tables, these bite-sized sausage balls are easy to make and even easier to devour. They come together quickly with simple ingredients and bake up golden and irresistible. Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving a comforting snack, this recipe never disappoints.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 30 sausage balls
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • All ingredients are carefully selected to deliver maximum flavor and perfect texture.
  • Ground beef or chicken sausage mild or spicy (replacing pork sausage)
  • Cream cheese softened
  • Sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies well drained
  • Bisquick baking mix
  • Garlic powder

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spoon or cookie scoop

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the base
  1. In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and ground beef or chicken sausage.
  2. Mix until fully blended and smooth.
Step 3: Add flavor and texture
  1. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and drained Rotel tomatoes.
  2. Mix until evenly combined.
Step 4: Add the baking mix
  1. Add the Bisquick baking mix gradually.
  2. Stir until a thick, cohesive dough forms.
Step 5: Shape the sausage balls
  1. Scoop the mixture and roll into 1-inch balls.
  2. Place evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake
  1. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  2. The bottoms should be lightly crisp and the centers tender.
Step 7: Serve
  1. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
  2. Serve warm for best flavor.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked sausage balls for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven or air fryer until heated through.
🥄 Variations
Simple ways to customize while keeping the game-day magic:
Extra Spicy: Use spicy beef or chicken sausage.
Milder Version: Use mild sausage and reduce Rotel slightly.
Extra Cheesy: Add more cheddar or mix in mozzarella.
Mini Size: Roll smaller balls for larger crowds.
Dipping Option: Serve with a creamy cheese or ranch-style dip.
❓ 10 FAQs
What replaces pork sausage in this recipe?
Ground beef or chicken sausage is used instead.
Do I need to cook the sausage first?
No, it cooks fully while baking.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they reheat very well.
Are they very spicy?
Mild to medium—easy to adjust.
Can kids eat these?
Yes, especially the mild version.
Why drain the Rotel?
To avoid excess moisture.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—great for parties.
Do they stay soft inside?
Yes, creamy and tender.
Can I use a cookie scoop?
Yes, it ensures even sizing.
Are these good for game day?
They’re a guaranteed hit.
🏁 Conclusion
These Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the definition of a winning appetizer—cheesy, savory, and packed with bold flavor. Easy to make, easy to serve, and impossible to resist, they’re perfect for game days, parties, or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing snack. Make a double batch—you’ll be glad you did.