If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears within minutes at parties, holidays, and game days, Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are exactly what you need. Savory sausage, creamy cheese, zesty Rotel tomatoes, and a perfectly baked golden exterior come together to create one of the most irresistible finger foods you’ll ever serve.
These sausage balls are rich, cheesy, slightly spicy, and unbelievably easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, preparing snacks for a potluck, or looking for a make-ahead appetizer, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Why Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Are So Popular
This recipe has earned its place as a classic Southern-style party food for several reasons:
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🧀 Ultra-creamy thanks to cream cheese
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🌶️ Bold flavor from Rotel tomatoes with green chilies
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🥩 Hearty and filling with sausage in every bite
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⏱️ Quick to prepare, easy to bake
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❄️ Freezer-friendly and make-ahead approved
They’re bite-sized, portable, and perfect for game day spreads, Christmas parties, brunch buffets, and casual gatherings.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
Unlike traditional sausage balls made only with biscuit mix and cheese, this version adds cream cheese and Rotel, which transforms the texture and flavor completely:
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Cream cheese keeps the sausage balls soft, moist, and rich
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Rotel adds tangy tomato flavor with gentle heat
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Cheddar cheese melts into every bite for bold cheesiness
The result? Juicy sausage balls with a creamy center and a golden baked crust—never dry, never bland.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
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1 lb (450 g) ground sausage
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Mild, hot, or spicy depending on preference
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8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
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2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
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1 can (10 oz / 283 g) Rotel tomatoes, well drained
Binding Ingredient
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1½ cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
Optional Add-Ins
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
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Pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat
