These cheesy sausage balls are a classic party favorite—crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and loaded with bold flavor. Made with breakfast sausage, cream cheese, Rotel tomatoes with chilies, cheddar cheese, and a Bisquick base, they’re quick to prepare and guaranteed to disappear fast at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, game day, or just want a tasty snack, this recipe delivers every time.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Busy home cooks who want a quick appetizer without complicated steps.
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Party hosts looking for crowd-pleasing finger food.
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Cheese and sausage lovers who crave a savory, comforting snack.
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Beginners in the kitchen, since this recipe is practically foolproof.
Why It’s Great
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Minimal Ingredients: Everything is pantry-friendly and budget-friendly.
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Versatile: Works as an appetizer, snack, or even a breakfast bite.
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Flavor-Packed: Spicy sausage, melty cheese, and zesty tomatoes make each bite irresistible.
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Make Ahead Friendly: You can prep them in advance and bake when ready.
Ingredients
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1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
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1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 ½ cups Bisquick or self-rising flour
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1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
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½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, mix sausage, cream cheese, Rotel, cheddar cheese, Bisquick, and seasonings until fully combined.
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Roll the mixture into 1–1 ½ inch balls and place on the baking sheet.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
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Serve warm with ranch, marinara, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large mixing bowl
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Baking sheet
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Parchment paper
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Measuring cups and spoons
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
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Freezer: Freeze uncooked sausage balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
FAQ
Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes! Sharp cheddar is classic, but pepper jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend works too.
Do I have to use Rotel?
If you don’t have Rotel, substitute with drained diced tomatoes and a little chopped green chili or jalapeño.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely! Mix and roll the sausage balls, then refrigerate (up to 24 hours) or freeze until ready to bake.
Conclusion
These cheesy sausage balls are the ultimate easy appetizer—savory, cheesy, and totally addictive. Perfect for holidays, parties, or game days, they’re a recipe you’ll keep coming back to again and again. Make a double batch—you’ll thank yourself later!
