Pioneer Woman Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect little bite-sized treats that combine creamy, spicy, and savory flavors all in one. They’re made with sausage, cream cheese, and a can of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, which gives them a nice kick without being too spicy. The texture is wonderfully soft on the inside with a slightly crispy outside after baking.
I love making these for gatherings or just as a snack because they’re so easy to whip up and always disappear fast. A fun little tip: if you want to make them even better, you can add a sprinkle of shredded cheese right on top before baking to get a bubbly, cheesy crust. It always impresses people, and honestly, I can’t stop nibbling on them before they even come out of the oven.
These sausage balls remind me of cozy family get-togethers and holiday parties when everyone gathers in the kitchen, sharing stories and plates of these warm little nuggets. They pair perfectly with a cold drink and make for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that feels homemade and special every time. I always find myself reaching for these whenever I want something simple yet delicious that everyone will love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast sausage: This is essential for flavor and moisture. Mild sausage keeps it gentle, while spicy adds some heat. If you prefer, you can swap for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Cream cheese: It adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture. Be sure it’s softened for easy mixing. You can try Neufchâtel cheese as a lower-fat substitute.
Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilies: This gives the sausage balls their signature zesty kick. If unavailable, use diced tomatoes with a small amount of chopped green chili or jalapeño for similar flavor.
Baking mix (Bisquick): This is the binder that holds everything together. If you can’t find Bisquick, try self-rising flour or make a simple mix of flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a lovely tang and meltiness. Feel free to blend in cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder taste.
How Do You Keep Sausage Balls Tender and Perfectly Cooked?
The key is mixing and baking!
- Mix sausage and cream cheese while the cream cheese is soft. This ensures even texture without clumps.
- Don’t overmix after adding the baking mix and cheese; a rough mix keeps the balls tender.
- Roll uniform-sized balls for even cooking—about 1 to 1.5 inches works great.
- Bake at 350°F and check after 25 minutes. They should be golden on the edges with melted cheese inside.
- Let them rest a few minutes after baking to firm up, making them easier to serve.
With these tips, you’ll get sausage balls that are crispy outside, soft and cheesy inside, and packed with flavor every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I like a large one to stir everything together easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – helps make uniform-sized sausage balls.
- Baking sheet – a flat, sturdy pan to hold the sausage balls while baking.
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray – to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Oven – of course, essential for baking until golden and cooked through.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked chopped bacon or ham for extrameatiness and a smoky flavor.
- Mix in chopped green onions or diced peppers for a fresh, crunchy bite.
- Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for varying spice and meltability.
- Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce mixed into the sausage for more heat.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, as you like)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups Bisquick baking mix
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, you can have these tasty sausage balls ready in around 40 minutes total—perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Sausage and Cream Cheese:
In a large bowl, combine the breakfast sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until they form a smooth, even mixture.
3. Add Rotel Tomatoes:
Drain the Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies well, then fold them into your sausage and cream cheese mixture gently.
4. Add Cheese and Bisquick:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick baking mix, garlic powder (if using), and black pepper. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix, you want the mixture to stay a bit coarse.
5. Shape the Sausage Balls:
Roll the mixture into small balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in size. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing each about an inch apart.
6. Bake:
Place your baking sheet in the oven for 25-30 minutes. The sausage balls are ready when they’re golden at the edges and cooked through. The cheese inside should be melted and delicious.
7. Cool and Serve:
Let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet, then serve them warm. They’re wonderful with mustard, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy these cheesy, tasty sausage balls that bring a little spicy zing from the Rotel tomatoes—ideal for sharing with friends and family!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the sausage in the refrigerator before mixing. Pat it dry if needed to avoid extra moisture in the sausage balls.
Can I Make Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the balls a day in advance. Store them covered in the fridge and bake fresh when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftover Sausage Balls?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep them crispy.
Can I Substitute Bisquick for Another Ingredient?
If you don’t have Bisquick, you can use self-rising flour or make your own baking mix with flour, baking powder, and salt. Keep the same quantity to maintain the right texture.