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Rotel Sausage Balls are a crowd-pleasing snack that comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for game day or casual get-togethers, they combine savory sausage, sharp cheddar, and a little kick from diced tomatoes with green chilies for a flavorful bite.
I first made these during a busy football Sunday and they disappeared before the end of the first quarter. Now they’re a must-have whenever friends come over.
Ingredients
- Breakfast sausage: either mild or spicy to control heat level and add juicy flavor
- Sharp cheddar cheese: shredded fresh for melty richness and bite
- Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies: well drained to add a tangy spice without extra moisture
- Bisquick baking mix: to bind everything together and create a light, tender texture
- Garlic powder: optional but enhances the savory notes if you like a little more depth
Use fresh sharp cheddar and check that your sausage is fresh and cold for best texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps the sausage balls cook evenly.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl combine the sausage, shredded cheddar, well-drained Rotel, Bisquick mix, and garlic powder if using. Use your hands to mix thoroughly until the ingredients come together into a cohesive mixture. This manual mixing helps distribute everything evenly.
- Form the Balls:
- Roll the mixture into approximately 1-inch sized balls. This size bakes quickly and makes for perfect bite-sized snacks. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet leaving a little space between each.
- Bake Until Golden:
- Place the tray in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for a nice golden brown color on the outside and ensure the sausage is cooked through in the center.
- Cool Slightly and Serve:
- Remove from oven and allow the sausage balls to cool for a few minutes so they hold their shape. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or queso for extra flavor.
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My favorite ingredient here is the Rotel tomatoes because they bring just enough spice and moisture without making these greasy or soggy. These sausage balls became a tradition at family gatherings, especially during football season when everyone reaches for another.
Storage Tips
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through or microwave for a quick fix. You can freeze uncooked balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag and bake straight from frozen adding a few extra minutes.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use gluten-free baking mix if you want a gluten-free version
Swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack to add an extra layer of spice
If you prefer, turkey sausage can be used for a leaner option but the flavor may be milder
Serving Suggestions
Serve these with ranch dressing, queso dip, or even a spicy mustard to complement the flavors
Pair with fresh vegetables or a crisp salad to balance richness when serving as part of an appetizer spread
Cultural Context
Sausage balls are a beloved Southern United States party staple and often show up at holidays, game days, and potlucks. The addition of Rotel, a Tex-Mex canned tomato and chili blend, gives this version a little Southwestern flair that is beloved for its easy spice and tang.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of sausage works best for these sausage balls?
Using breakfast sausage, either mild or spicy, works well. Spicy sausage adds a bit of heat, while mild keeps the flavor mellow.
- → How important is draining the Rotel tomatoes?
Draining the diced tomatoes thoroughly prevents excess moisture, which helps keep the sausage balls from becoming soggy during baking.
- → Can I prepare the sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the balls and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking, which can help firm up the mixture and make rolling easier.
- → Which dipping sauces complement these sausage balls?
Ranch dressing, queso, or any creamy dip pairs wonderfully, enhancing the savory and spicy notes of the sausage balls.
- → What is the best temperature and baking time?
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until the balls are golden brown and cooked through.