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Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls – Cheesy, Savory & Perfect Appetizers

Kick your appetizer game up a notch with these Spicy Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls! Packed with spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings. Easy to make and bake, they’re crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and bursting with bold flavor. Serve warm for an irresistible crowd-pleaser!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer, Party Food, Snack
Cuisine American, Southern-Inspired
Servings 24 sausage balls (about 6–8 servings as appetizers)
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cookie scoop (optional, for even sizes)
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb (450g) ground pork sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, well drained
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 ½ cups Bisquick baking mix (or similar)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Mix ingredients – In a large bowl, combine sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel, cheddar, Bisquick, and seasonings. Mix well until fully combined.
  • Shape balls – Scoop mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. (A cookie scoop helps for even sizes.)
  • Bake – Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
  • Bake – Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Form the sausage balls, place on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5 minutes to cook time.
  • Cheese Options: Try pepper jack for extra heat or mozzarella for a milder bite.
  • Sausage Swap: Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
  • Serving Tip: Pair with a creamy dip or a spicy salsa for balance.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Keyword cheesy sausage bites, game day finger foods, holiday party snacks, Rotel cream cheese appetizer, spicy sausage balls