If you’re looking for a warm, cheesy, and slightly spicy appetizer that everyone will love, Pioneer Woman Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are an absolute must-try. These little bites are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even cozy weeknight snacks. With a creamy cheese base, a hint of heat from diced tomatoes, and savory sausage, these bites strike the perfect balance between comfort and flavor. Best of all, they’re simple to make, beginner-friendly, and use ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Golden-brown Pioneer Woman Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls fresh from the oven

Ingredients Overview

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s take a quick look at the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:

1 pound chicken or turkey sausage (uncooked)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt

These ingredients combine to create a flavorful, cheesy, and slightly spicy bite-sized snack that’s sure to impress.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your sausage balls start baking immediately and cook evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, silicone baking mat, or lightly grease it with butter or vegetable oil. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier. For extra crispiness on the bottom, you can lightly spray the parchment with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Soften and Mix the Cream Cheese

Take the cream cheese out of the fridge ahead of time so it softens to room temperature. Softened cream cheese blends more easily with the sausage, giving your sausage balls a creamy, cohesive texture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and uncooked sausage. Use a sturdy spoon, silicone spatula, or clean hands to mix until the cream cheese is fully incorporated. Ensure there are no large clumps of cream cheese—your mixture should be uniform.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Diced Tomatoes

Add the shredded cheddar cheese and drained diced tomatoes with green chilies to the sausage mixture. Make sure to drain the tomatoes well, as excess moisture can make the mixture too wet to shape. Stir gently but thoroughly until the cheese and tomatoes are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The cheese not only adds flavor but helps bind the sausage balls as they bake.

Step 4: Season and Incorporate Flour

Add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and all-purpose flour. The flour acts as a binder to help the sausage balls hold their shape during baking. Mix until a dough-like consistency forms. If the mixture feels too sticky to handle, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it is easy to roll into balls. Be careful not to add too much flour—over-flouring can make the sausage balls dry.

Step 5: Shape the Sausage Balls

Use your hands to shape the mixture into uniform, bite-sized balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Keeping them consistent in size ensures even baking. Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each ball to allow hot air to circulate and achieve even browning. For a smoother finish, roll each ball firmly between your palms, but avoid compressing them too tightly—this allows the interior to stay soft and tender.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and fully cooked through. The cheese will be melted, and the edges will be slightly crisp. For best results, rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Step 7: Optional Finishing Touch

For extra flavor and shine, brush the tops of the sausage balls with a little melted butter right after baking. This gives them a rich finish and enhances the golden color.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as an appetizer with dipping sauces such as ranch, mustard, or a tangy salsa. They also pair nicely with fresh veggies or can be served straight from the baking sheet at parties.

Step 9: Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals until warm. You can also freeze the uncooked or cooked sausage balls. If freezing uncooked, bake from frozen at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar provides classic flavor, feel free to mix cheeses for extra depth. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, Monterey Jack keeps it mild, or even a blend of cheddar and mozzarella gives a gooey texture.

Sausage Choices: For a pork-free version, use chicken, turkey, or beef sausage. You can also try spicy Italian sausage (pork-free) or lamb sausage for a different flavor profile.

Adding Heat: If you love a little extra spice, stir in 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture before baking.

Make Ahead & Storage: You can prepare these sausage balls a day in advance. Form the balls and store them in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to bake. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen for 25–30 minutes at 350°F.

Texture Tips: If your mixture feels too sticky, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s easy to handle. For extra crispy edges, lightly brush the tops with melted butter before baking.

Flavor Boosters: Mix in finely chopped green onions, minced garlic, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an added layer of flavor. You can also stir in a small handful of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for freshness.

Serving Variety: Serve warm with a variety of dips—creamy ranch, tangy mustard, or even a mild salsa works beautifully. They’re also fantastic served alongside a fresh veggie platter for a balanced appetizer option.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

ioneer Woman Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are incredibly versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions. Their cheesy, savory, and slightly spicy flavor makes them a hit with both kids and adults alike. Here are some ideas for serving and occasions:

Holiday Parties: These sausage balls are ideal for holiday gatherings, from Thanksgiving to Christmas. Arrange them on a festive platter and serve alongside colorful veggies or a selection of dips like creamy ranch, honey mustard, or tangy marinara.
Game Day or Movie Night: Bite-sized and easy to eat, they’re perfect finger foods for watching the big game or enjoying a cozy movie night at home. Pair them with chips, pretzels, or a cold beverage for a complete snack spread.
Family Brunch or Breakfast: Serve warm sausage balls with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or a side of breakfast potatoes for a hearty brunch option. They’re especially great when you want something savory and filling.
Potlucks and Picnics: Because they’re easy to transport and serve at room temperature, these sausage balls are a crowd-pleaser at potlucks or outdoor gatherings. You can make a batch ahead of time and bring them ready to serve.
Appetizer for Dinner Parties: They make a simple yet elegant appetizer for casual or formal dinner parties. Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an attractive presentation.
Snack for Kids or Lunchboxes: These bites are also great as a protein-packed snack for kids or as an addition to lunchboxes. Serve warm or cold, and they’ll disappear fast!

Pro Tip: To elevate your serving presentation, use small ramekins for dipping sauces, scatter a few fresh herbs on the platter, or serve alongside a colorful vegetable tray. These little touches make the dish feel special without adding extra effort.

Nutritional & Health Notes

While Pioneer Woman Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are undeniably indulgent and full of flavor, there are ways to make them a bit lighter or healthier without sacrificing taste. Here’s a breakdown and some helpful tips:

Protein-Packed: Each sausage ball contains protein from the sausage and cheese, making them a satisfying snack or appetizer. Protein helps keep you full longer, which is especially great for parties or as a mid-afternoon snack.
Cheese Benefits: Cheese provides calcium and some essential vitamins like vitamin A and B12. Using sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses adds flavor without needing extra salt or spices.
Lower-Fat Options: You can swap regular cream cheese for reduced-fat cream cheese and choose leaner sausage options such as chicken or turkey sausage. This helps reduce overall fat while keeping the sausage balls flavorful.
Gluten-Free Variation: Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bites safe for those with gluten sensitivity. Almond flour or oat flour can also work, but the texture may be slightly different.
Spice and Flavor Adjustments: The diced tomatoes with green chilies give a natural kick without needing added hot sauce. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or green onions for extra nutrition and flavor.
Portion Control: While they’re bite-sized and easy to enjoy, it’s good to keep portion control in mind, especially for gatherings. One or two sausage balls per serving is a satisfying amount when paired with vegetables or dips.
Balanced Serving Ideas: Pairing sausage balls with fresh fruit, veggie sticks, or a light dipping sauce can help balance out the richness and provide a more complete snack or appetizer experience.

FAQs

Can I freeze these sausage balls?

Yes! Form the balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until warmed through.

Conclusion

Pioneer Woman Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a cozy, flavorful appetizer that’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion. With their cheesy, savory, and slightly spicy bite, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare, fun to share, and completely satisfying—these sausage balls bring warmth and flavor to your table every time.

Pioneer Woman Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Author: David Tag

Print Recipe

Description

These cheesy, savory, and slightly spicy sausage balls are perfect for parties, gatherings, or cozy nights at home. Made with simple ingredients like cream cheese, diced tomatoes, and chicken sausage, they’re easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb chicken or turkey sausage
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet.
Mix sausage and cream cheese until combined.
Add cheese and diced tomatoes, stir well.
Add flour and seasonings, mix into a dough.
Form 1-inch balls and place on baking sheet.
Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Serve warm, with optional dipping sauces.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 24 sausage balls