These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer—savory ground sausage blended with sharp cheddar, tangy cream cheese, and fire-roasted tomatoes and green chiles from Rotel. Baked until golden and slightly crispy on the outside, they’re tender, spicy, and packed with bold flavor in every bite.(Makes 24–30 balls)

1 lb (454g) hot or mild ground breakfast sausage (casings removed)
1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes & green chiles, well-drained
8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
2 cups (8 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2½ cups (315g) baking mix (like Bisquick—or GF blend)
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Optional:
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (for extra heat)
Fresh cilantro for garnish1. Prep Ingredients
Drain Rotel in a fine-mesh strainer; press gently to remove excess liquid.
Shred cheese and soften cream cheese.
2. Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine sausage, Rotel, cream cheese, cheddar, baking mix, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Mix with your hands or a sturdy spoon until fully blended (it will be thick!).
3. Form Balls
Scoop 1–1½ tbsp portions; roll into 1-inch balls.
Place 1 inch apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Optional: Broil 1–2 minutes for extra browning (watch closely!).
5. Serve Warm
Garnish with cilantro if desired.
Serve with:
Toothpicks for easy grabbing
Ranch or sour cream dip for cooling contrast
Extra Rotel or pickled jalapeños on the side