Looking for an irresistibly cheesy, savory bite-sized snack that’s perfect for any occasion? These Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls are a guaranteed hit! Whether you’re preparing them for game day, potlucks, brunches, or family gatherings, this recipe is incredibly easy to make and delivers bold flavor with every bite. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious appetizer everyone will rave about!
Ingredients for Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls
To make these mouthwatering Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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1 pound (450 g) breakfast sausage (mild, spicy, or hot based on your preference)
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, freshly grated for best results)
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1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, well drained
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2 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
You won’t need any fancy equipment—just a few basic kitchen tools:
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Large mixing bowl
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Baking sheet
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Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Optional: cookie scoop for evenly sized balls
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Wire rack (for cooling)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls:
1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2: Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, drained Rotel, baking mix, and spices (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper).
Mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon or your hands until all ingredients are fully incorporated. The mixture will be somewhat sticky and dense—this is normal.
3: Form the Sausage Balls
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them for even cooking.
4: Bake
Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 160°F (71°C) to ensure the sausage is fully cooked.
5: Cool and Serve
Transfer the sausage balls to a wire rack and let them cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm but can also be served at room temperature.
Helpful Tips for Making & Serving Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls
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Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may prevent the sausage balls from binding properly. Grating your own cheese results in a better texture and flavor.
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Drain Rotel thoroughly: Excess moisture from the Rotel can make the mixture too wet. Place the Rotel in a fine mesh sieve and press gently to release as much liquid as possible.
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Adjust the spice level: Choose mild, medium, or hot sausage based on your desired heat level. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra kick.
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Make ahead & freeze: These sausage balls freeze beautifully! After forming them, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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Dipping sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, spicy aioli, honey mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce for even more flavor.
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Perfect for meal prep: These sausage balls can be made in advance and reheated in the oven or microwave for quick snacks or breakfasts on busy mornings.
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving, based on 1 ball out of 24)
Please note, nutritional values may vary depending on the brands used and exact portion sizes:
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Calories: 100
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Protein: 6g
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Fat: 7g
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Carbohydrates: 4g
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Fiber: 0g
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Sugar: 1g
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Sodium: 250mg
Conclusion: Try These Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls Today!
Cheesy Rotel Sausage Balls are a must-try for anyone who loves quick and delicious appetizers. With minimal prep, bold flavors, and endless versatility, they’re perfect for everything from parties to weekday snacks. Plus, they’re easy to customize—use different cheeses, spice blends, or sausage varieties to suit your taste.
