Ever crave something warm, cheesy, and just spicy enough to wake up your taste buds? These Rotel Sausage Balls are your new go-to. Whether you’re hosting game day, prepping for the holidays, or just hungry at midnight (been there), these bites bring bold flavor with barely any effort.
Perfect for potlucks, brunch, tailgates, or late-night fridge raids.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Be Obsessed With These Sausage Balls
These little sausage bombs are everything you want in a snack. Crispy outside, juicy inside, melty cheese in every bite, and that sneaky little kick from Rotel that makes you reach for “just one more.” They’re also make-ahead friendly, freezer-ready, and easy enough to throw together in your sleep (though maybe wait until you’re awake).
If you love snackable bites like juicy mini sandwiches, this one belongs in your back pocket.
What Makes Rotel Sausage Balls So Special?
It’s the flavor party. Sausage brings the richness, cheddar brings the creamy melt, and Rotel brings the moisture and zing. You get a perfect blend of hearty and cheesy with every single bite. The texture is soft and tender inside with golden, crispy edges.
Honestly, it’s like cheesy biscuits met spicy nacho dip and made a beautiful snack baby.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 pound pork sausage (regular or hot)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10 oz) Rotel, well-drained
2 cups Bisquick or other baking mix
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional but yummy)
You can swap in turkey sausage if you like it lighter, or go plant-based if that’s your vibe. Gluten-free baking mix works too. Want more heat? Use pepper jack.
How to Make Rotel Sausage Balls (Step-by-Step)
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment
In a big bowl, combine sausage, cheese, drained Rotel, baking mix, and garlic powder
Use your hands to mix it’s messy but effective
Scoop and roll into 1-inch balls. A cookie scoop helps, but clean hands do the trick
Place the balls on your baking sheet with space in between
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and cooked through
Let them cool slightly before serving (if you can wait)
Tips for Perfectly Juicy, Cheesy Bites Every Time
Drain the Rotel well so your mixture doesn’t get soggy
Cold sausage mixes easier and shapes better
Don’t overbake golden edges mean they’re done
For crispier bottoms, skip the parchment and bake directly on the tray
Pair them with something fresh like this elegant veggie platter and you’ve got a party tray people won’t stop talking about.
Tasty Dipping Ideas & What to Serve Them With
These sausage balls play well with lots of dips. Ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, spicy ketchup, even honey mustard. For breakfast, add a couple scrambled eggs and some fruit.
Want to level up your party table? Slide these in next to crispy loaded Hasselback potato bites for a total touchdown spread.
Make-Ahead, Freezing & Reheating Tips
To prep ahead, roll the sausage balls and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours
To freeze, line them on a tray, freeze solid, then store in a zip bag up to 3 months
To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through or microwave for 30 to 60 seconds
They reheat beautifully and still taste freshly baked
Simple Variations to Try
Want to get creative?
Swap cheddar for pepper jack or Monterey Jack
Add finely chopped jalapeños or green onions
Mix in cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist
Use vegan sausage and dairy-free cheese for a plant-powered snack
FAQ
Can I make them without Bisquick?
Absolutely. Combine 2 cups all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons cold butter. That’s your DIY mix.
Are they spicy?
They’ve got a mellow heat from the Rotel. You can dial it up with hot sausage or tone it down with mild sausage and Original Rotel.
Can I cook them in an air fryer?
You sure can. Air fry at 350°F for about 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. They’ll come out super golden and crispy.
Give ‘Em a Try!
Make these Rotel Sausage Balls once and they’ll be your party MVP forever. Let me know how yours turn out in the comments snap a pic, tag us, and share your favorite dips.
Follow us on Pinterest for more cozy ideas, or join the fun on Facebook!
Rotel Sausage Balls: The Ultimate Recipe for a Flavorful Snack
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork sausage regular or hot
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can 10 oz Rotel, well-drained
- 2 cups Bisquick or other baking mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder optional
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- 2. In a large bowl, mix sausage, cheese, drained Rotel, baking mix, and garlic powder.
- 3. Use your hands to combine until fully mixed.
- 4. Scoop and roll into 1-inch balls using your hands or a cookie scoop.
- 5. Place on baking sheet with space between each.
- 6. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- 7. Let cool slightly before serving.