Rotel Sausage Balls

Name: Rotel Sausage Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy); 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, well drained; 1½ cups Bisquick baking mix; ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)

by Peter Harper

Published on: November 27, 2025

Delicious Rotel Sausage Balls ready to serve at a party.

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Rotel Sausage Balls: The Ultimate Recipe for a Flavorful Snack are the perfect combination of savory sausage, zesty cheese, and a hint of heat from diced tomatoes and green chilies. These bite-sized treats are golden brown, crisp on the outside, and oozing with cheesy goodness inside. Imagine the mouthwatering aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake, making them irresistible to friends and family. Perfect for game day, parties, or family gatherings, they are simple to make and a delightful twist on traditional sausage balls.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or just craving a tasty snack, Rotel Sausage Balls: The Ultimate Recipe for a Flavorful Snack is a go-to option. They are not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making them an instant crowd-pleaser. With their versatility, you can enjoy them warm right out of the oven or as a make-ahead snack that feeds a crowd. The contrast of crispy exteriors and cheesy, savory interiors is sure to satisfy any palate.

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

Experience the vibrant flavors of Rotel Sausage Balls with fresh and seasonal ingredients. The combination of juicy tomatoes and spicy green chilies adds a colorful pop to these delectable bites. The sharp cheddar cheese, with its vibrant yellow hue, melts beautifully, enhancing the savory taste. The aroma of freshly baked sausage balls fills your kitchen with warmth and invites everyone to gather around. Using local, seasonal ingredients not only elevates the flavor but also supports sustainability and freshness in your home cooking.

What You’ll Need

To create the irresistible Rotel Sausage Balls, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, well drained
1½ cups Bisquick baking mix
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)

These ingredients combine to create a perfect meld of flavors and textures. For a twist, try using pepper jack cheese for an extra kick, or substitute the sausage with turkey or plant-based options for a lighter version.

How to Make This Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your sausage balls bake evenly and do not stick to the pan.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, well-drained Rotel, Bisquick, and optional garlic powder. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 3: Mix Well

Using your hands, mix the ingredients until fully blended. You want to feel the textures meld together, creating a uniform dough.

Step 4: Roll into Balls

Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into 1-inch balls. Place the shaped balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes—you’ll want that perfect crispy finish!

Step 6: Serve Warm

Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or spicy mustard, to complement the flavors.

Essential Tools

To make the process smoother, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

Mixing bowls (large and medium)
Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
Measuring cups and spoons
Cookie scoop (optional, for even-sized balls)
Spatula for transferring

These tools help you execute the recipe seamlessly while ensuring every ball is just the right size.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

Rotel Sausage Balls can be made ahead for convenience. Once they cool, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm. This makes them a perfect choice for meal prep or spontaneous gatherings!

Perfect Pairings

To elevate your snack experience, serve Rotel Sausage Balls with a refreshing dipping sauce like salsa or guacamole. Pair them with a crisp green salad for a light counterbalance or enjoy them with a side of steamed vegetables. For drinks, consider serving with iced tea or a light beer for a tasty combination. The crunchy exterior complements the creamy interior, creating a delightful taste sensation!

Nutrition Facts

Estimated nutrition per serving (1 sausage ball):

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Dough Too Dry

If your mixture seems too dry, add a splash of milk until it reaches a pliable consistency.

Unevenly Shaped Balls

For uniformity, use a cookie scoop to ensure each ball is the same size.

Overbaking

Keep a close eye on them in the oven to prevent overbaking; they should be golden brown but not hard.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Mixing: Don’t overmix the dough; just combine until you see no dry ingredients.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese types! Gouda or Monterey Jack can add a unique twist.
Garnishing: For a pop of color, sprinkle some chopped herbs like cilantro or green onions after baking.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Feel free to get creative with your Rotel Sausage Balls! Swap in ground turkey for a leaner option, or incorporate different cheeses like pepper jack for added spiciness. For a veggie twist, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or green onions to the mixture. You can even serve them with different dips to match the season or occasion.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

This recipe is naturally glutenous, so for gluten-free versions, substitute Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix. For dairy-free options, choose vegan cheese and plant-based sausage. Always check for allergens in your ingredients and feel free to experiment to suit dietary needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
What dipping sauces pair well? Popular choices include ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy salsa.
How should I store leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I use leaner sausage? Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage is a great alternative if you’re looking to reduce fat content.
How can I make it spicier? Consider using hot breakfast sausage, adding jalapeños, or using pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

In summary, Rotel Sausage Balls: The Ultimate Recipe for a Flavorful Snack are a delightful blend of flavors perfect for any occasion. Couldn’t be easier to make, these snacks promise to become a favorite! If you enjoyed this recipe, please share your thoughts in the comments or tag us on social media! For more tasty ideas, check out our recipe collection.

Rotel Sausage Balls

Author: meta-savory
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free (with adaptations)

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Description

A savory snack combining sausage, cheese, and zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies, perfect for parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, well drained
1½ cups Bisquick baking mix
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, well-drained Rotel, Bisquick, and optional garlic powder.
Using your hands, mix the ingredients until fully blended.
Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into 1-inch balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.