Savory Sausage Cheese Balls

This savory party favorite combines the rich flavors of sausage, cream cheese, and tangy Rotel tomatoes into irresistible bite-sized morsels. The Mexican cheese blend adds a wonderful stretch when they're warm from the oven, making these sausage balls utterly addictive at any gathering.

I first made these for a last minute Super Bowl party when I was desperate for something quick and impressive. They disappeared faster than any other dish on the table, and now they're requested at every family gathering we host.

Ingredients

• Uncooked sausage one pound provides the meaty base and primary flavor choose regular or spicy depending on your heat preference
• Cream cheese softened eight ounces creates a rich creamy texture that balances the spice from the sausage and Rotel
• Rotel tomatoes drained ten ounces adds the perfect amount of tang and subtle heat use original or mild based on your spice tolerance
• Bisquick mix one and a half cups works as the binding agent that holds everything together while creating a tender interior
• Mexican cheese blend two cups shredded incorporates beautifully and creates delicious cheese pulls with every bite use freshly shredded for best melting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Oven

Set your oven to preheat at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While waiting for it to heat up completely line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.

Mix The Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl combine the pound of uncooked sausage with the softened cream cheese. Make sure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature for easier mixing. Add the well drained Rotel tomatoes the Bisquick mix and the Mexican cheese blend. Using clean hands mix everything thoroughly until completely uniform. The mixture will be somewhat sticky but should hold together well.

Form The Balls

Take approximately one tablespoon of mixture and roll between your palms to form balls about one inch in diameter. If the mixture becomes too sticky refrigerate it for 15 minutes to firm up slightly. Place each formed ball on your parchment lined baking sheet leaving about an inch between each for proper air circulation.

Bake To Perfection

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Look for a golden brown bottom and slightly firm texture. The internal temperature should reach 160°F to ensure the sausage is fully cooked. Let them cool for 2 to 3 minutes before serving to allow them to set up properly.

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The Rotel tomatoes are truly what makes this recipe special in my home. My husband thought he disliked sausage balls until he tried this version with the tangy tomato addition. Now he sneaks them from the refrigerator as midnight snacks when we have leftovers.

Make Ahead Magic

These sausage balls are perfect for planning ahead. You can prepare the mixture and shape the balls up to 24 hours in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. For longer storage, place the shaped unbaked balls on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag where they'll keep for up to three months. When ready to serve, bake them straight from frozen, adding just 5 to 7 minutes to the baking time.

Flavor Variations

The basic recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different flavor profiles. Try using breakfast sausage for a morning twist, or spicy Italian sausage for extra kick. Swap the Mexican cheese blend for sharp cheddar and add a teaspoon of dried ranch seasoning for a ranch flavor profile. For a Mediterranean version, use Italian sausage, replace the Rotel with drained sun-dried tomatoes, and use mozzarella with a sprinkle of Italian herbs. Each variation maintains the moist texture while offering a completely different flavor experience.

Serving Suggestions

These sausage balls shine brightest when served with complementary dips. A simple sriracha mayo adds delightful heat, while cool ranch dressing balances the spice from the Rotel. For breakfast service, drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet and savory combination that's surprisingly delicious. Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing at parties, or place them in a warming dish to maintain their perfect temperature throughout your gathering.

The Secret To Perfect Texture

The key to achieving the ideal texture lies in proper ingredient handling. Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened to room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps. Drain the Rotel tomatoes thoroughly, even pressing them gently in a fine mesh strainer to remove excess moisture. This prevents the mixture from becoming too wet, which can make forming the balls difficult. Avoid overmixing once the Bisquick is added, as this can make the final product tough rather than tender. With these simple precautions, your sausage balls will have the perfect balance of moisture and structure.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes! These sausage balls freeze beautifully before baking. Simply prepare the mixture, form the balls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag for storage. When ready to serve, place the frozen balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and add 5-7 minutes to the original baking time.

→ What type of sausage works best for this recipe?

Both breakfast sausage and Italian sausage work well in this recipe. For milder flavor, use regular breakfast sausage. For more kick, try hot Italian sausage or spicy breakfast sausage. The versatility allows you to adjust the heat level to your preference.

→ Can I substitute the Bisquick mix with something else?

If you don't have Bisquick on hand, you can make your own by combining 1½ cups all-purpose flour with 2¼ teaspoons baking powder, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ¼ cup cold butter cut into the mixture until crumbly. Alternatively, pancake mix can work as a substitute in a pinch.

→ Why is it important to drain the Rotel tomatoes?

Draining the Rotel tomatoes thoroughly is crucial because excess moisture will make the mixture too sticky and difficult to form into balls. It can also affect the texture of the finished product, making them soggy instead of firm and golden brown.

→ What can I serve with these sausage balls?

These versatile sausage balls pair well with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or warm marinara. For a complete appetizer spread, serve alongside fresh vegetables, cheese boards, or other finger foods. If serving for breakfast, they complement scrambled eggs and fresh fruit perfectly.

→ How should I store leftover sausage balls?

Store cooled leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze cooked balls and reheat from frozen at 350°F for 12-15 minutes.