If you’re looking for an easy appetizer that’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to disappear fast, these Rotel sausage balls are it. Made with breakfast sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, this recipe is a delicious twist on classic sausage balls. They’re cheesy, savory, and just a little spicy—perfect for game day, holiday parties, or a quick make-ahead snack.
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple it is. With just a handful of pantry staples and about 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a crowd-pleasing appetizer ready to serve. Whether you prefer mild or spicy sausage, these baked sausage balls are easy to customize to your taste.
Why You’ll Love These Rotel Sausage Balls
These cheesy sausage balls with Rotel are a favorite for so many reasons:
- Quick and easy – Simple ingredients and minimal prep
- No mixer required – Just use your hands to combine
- Perfect texture – Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
- Versatile – Great as an appetizer, snack, or brunch side
- Make-ahead friendly – Prep and refrigerate or freeze before baking
Thanks to the Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, every bite has a little kick that takes traditional sausage balls to the next level.
Ingredients for Rotel Sausage Balls
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this easy sausage ball recipe:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained well
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Pro tip: Be sure to drain the Rotel extremely well. Too much moisture can make the sausage balls soft instead of perfectly baked.
How to Make Rotel Sausage Balls
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, drained Rotel tomatoes, flour, baking powder, garlic salt, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Mix
Using clean hands, mix everything together until fully combined. This ensures the cheese and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the sausage mixture.
Step 4: Roll
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the sausage balls cool slightly, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Best Dipping Sauces for Sausage Balls
These Rotel sausage balls are delicious on their own, but dipping sauces make them even better. Try serving them with:
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard
- Spicy mayo
- Cheese sauce
- Creamy jalapeño dip
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked or baked sausage balls for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or pop them in the air fryer for a few minutes.