Pioneer Woman Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a tasty and comforting snack that’s satisfying every time. These little bites combine spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and the zesty kick of Rotel tomatoes, all rolled into perfect golden balls. They’re soft and cheesy on the inside with a nice browned crust on the outside, making them a crowd favorite for parties or just a cozy snack.
I love making these sausage balls because they’re super easy and come together really fast. I usually have the ingredients on hand, especially cream cheese and Rotel, which add a lovely creaminess and a little bit of heat to balance the sausage. One tip I always follow is to chill the dough a little before rolling — it makes shaping them way easier and helps everything stick together.
Whenever I serve these at gatherings, they disappear quickly! They’re perfect with a simple dipping sauce or even just on their own with a glass of iced tea or soda. Plus, they’re great warm or even room temperature, which makes them perfect for potlucks or game day. I always feel a little proud watching everyone go back for seconds — it’s like sharing a little comfort in every bite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast sausage: This is the main flavor base. You can choose mild or spicy depending on your heat preference. For a healthier twist, try turkey sausage or plant-based sausage alternatives.
Cream cheese: It adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture. If you want a lighter option, use Neufchatel cheese or mascarpone. Make sure it’s softened for easier mixing.
Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies: These give a mild spicy kick and a bit of moisture. If unavailable, try diced tomatoes with diced jalapeños or canned mild chilies.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a bold cheesy flavor. You can swap with Colby, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for a different taste.
Flour: This helps hold everything together. For gluten-free needs, use a gluten-free baking flour blend or almond flour, but note the texture may vary.
How Do You Shape Sausage Balls Without Them Falling Apart?
Getting your sausage balls to hold their shape can be tricky. Here’s my trick:
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly but don’t overwork, which can make them tough.
- Chill the mixture in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to firm up the cream cheese and fat. This helps when rolling.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to make evenly sized balls, then press gently to compact them.
- Place them spaced on the baking sheet to cook evenly and get a nice crust.
This way, your sausage balls pop out firm, cheesy, and perfectly golden.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I use a large bowl to mix everything easily and thoroughly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredients just right for the best flavor.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – makes shaping the sausage balls uniform and quicker.
- Baking sheet – a standard size is perfect for spreading out the sausage balls.
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray – to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for cooked bacon bits or diced ham for a different smoky or savory flavor.
- Add chopped pickles or jalapeños for extra crunch and heat.
- Mix in shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a different cheese taste.
- Season with a pinch of garlic powder, cumin, or smoked paprika to enhance the flavor.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling roughly 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy appetizer that’s ready in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the sausage balls from sticking.
2. Mix the Sausage and Cream Cheese
In a large bowl, add the breakfast sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix them well with your hands or a spoon until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
3. Add the Remaining Ingredients
To the sausage mixture, add the drained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, shredded cheddar cheese, and all-purpose flour. Stir everything together thoroughly so each bite will have all the flavors.
4. Shape the Sausage Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into balls about 1 to 1½ inches in size. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each ball for even cooking.
5. Bake Until Golden
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The sausage balls should be golden brown on the outside and fully cooked inside.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once baked, let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch. Serve warm as a tasty appetizer or snack that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the sausage in the fridge overnight before mixing. This helps ensure even mixing and cooking.
Can I Make These Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the sausage balls, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just keep them covered to prevent drying out.
How Should I Store Leftover Sausage Balls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I Substitute the Flour for a Gluten-Free Option?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Just note the texture may be a bit different but they’ll still be delicious!