I absolutely love sneaking into the kitchen with a rumbling belly and a spark of creativity, and these Keto Rotel Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese hit that sweet spot between comfort and excitement. The moment you gather all your ingredients—spicy or mild sausage, creamy cheese, zesty Rotel, and a handful of pantry staples—you can feel the magic brewing even before you preheat the oven. It’s such an easy recipe for beginners, and it comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time. Whether you’re planning a cozy movie night or prepping snacks for a gathering, these little flavor bombs pack a punch without derailing your low-carb lifestyle. With just 320 calories per serving (based on 10 servings), you can indulge without guilt.
The real joy of this recipe is how forgiving it is: no fancy equipment required, and you can easily customize the spice level to suit your taste buds. The combination of ground sausage and cream cheese forms a velvety base that holds everything together, while almond flour keeps it light and gluten-free. Add a can of drained Rotel for a tangy kick, and finish with shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of garlic and onion powders. In less than half an hour, your kitchen will be filled with the most mouthwatering aroma, and you’ll be greeted with golden-brown, cheesy delights that are perfect straight from the oven—or at room temperature while you mingle. Let’s dive in and bring these irresistible, low-carb appetizers to life!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN KETO ROTEL SAUSAGE BALLS WITH CREAM CHEESE
Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients, and these Keto Rotel Sausage Balls are no exception. Each component plays a vital role in delivering that perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground sausage
This is the star protein, providing rich, meaty depth. You can choose mild or spicy sausage to control how fiery your sausage balls turn out.
- Cream cheese
Softened to room temperature, cream cheese brings a luscious, creamy texture that binds everything together and balances the heat.
- Almond flour
A low-carb alternative to traditional wheat flour, almond flour adds just the right amount of structure without affecting the flavor.
- Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies)
Drained to avoid excess moisture, this adds a burst of tangy, zesty flavor and a subtle kick from the chilies.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Sharpness and meltiness in one, cheddar cheese infuses each bite with gooey, mouthwatering goodness.
- Garlic powder
A pantry staple that amplifies savory notes and complements the sausage’s spices.
- Onion powder
Provides a subtle sweetness and depth, rounding out the flavor profile.
- Salt
Enhances all the other flavors, ensuring each component sings in harmony.
- Black pepper
A final layer of warmth and complexity, pepper brings a gentle heat that ties everything together.
HOW TO MAKE KETO ROTEL SAUSAGE BALLS WITH CREAM CHEESE
Bringing these sausage balls to life is as fun as it is straightforward. In just a few easy steps, you’ll go from raw ingredients to golden-baked bites that taste like a party in your mouth. Let’s walk through the process, keeping things friendly and encouraging every step of the way.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking while your sausage balls bake to perfection.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage and softened cream cheese. Use a sturdy spatula or clean hands—whichever feels right—to mix well until the two ingredients are fully incorporated into a smooth, uniform mixture.
3. Add the drained Rotel, almond flour, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the sausage-cream cheese base. Stir everything together, making sure each element is evenly distributed.
4. Using a tablespoon or a small scoop, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart to allow even browning.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown on the outside and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re firm to the touch and the cheese is melted inside.
6. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This rest time helps the flavors settle and keeps the sausage balls from falling apart. Serve them warm or at room temperature and savor every bite!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR KETO ROTEL SAUSAGE BALLS WITH CREAM CHEESE
These sausage balls are a star attraction on any appetizer spread, and the way you serve them can elevate your gathering to the next level. Whether you’re hosting game day, a potluck, or a casual family snack, the right accompaniments will make your Keto Rotel Sausage Balls truly shine. Here are a few of my favorite ideas to get those taste buds dancing:
- Tangy Dipping Sauce – Whip up a simple dip by mixing sour cream with a dash of lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro. The cool, zesty notes contrast beautifully with the warm, savory sausage balls.
- Fresh Veggie Platter – Serve the sausage balls alongside crisp celery sticks, cucumber slices, and colorful bell pepper strips for a low-carb, refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors.
- Spicy Marinara – Ladle a bit of homemade or store-bought marinara into a small bowl, then stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes. This Italian-inspired twist adds a hearty, comforting dimension.
- Pickled Jalapeños – For an extra kick, place a few pickled jalapeño slices next to each sausage ball. The tangy heat pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese inside.
HOW TO STORE KETO ROTEL SAUSAGE BALLS WITH CREAM CHEESE
When you make a batch of these sausage balls, you’ll likely want to keep them on hand for quick snacks or unexpected guests. Proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness, flavor, and texture. Whether you plan to enjoy them over the next few days or freeze them for long-term use, here are some helpful tips:
- Refrigerator Storage: Place cooled sausage balls in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Layer parchment paper between each row to prevent sticking.
- Freezer Method: Arrange baked and cooled sausage balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They’ll last up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
- Reheating in the Oven: For best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the sausage balls on a parchment-lined sheet, and bake for 8–10 minutes until warmed through. This preserves their crispy exterior.
- Microwave Quick Warm-Up: If you’re in a hurry, place the sausage balls on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 20-second intervals until hot. Keep a close eye to avoid overcooking the cheese filling.
CONCLUSION
What a delicious journey we’ve taken together, exploring the vibrant flavors and simple magic of Keto Rotel Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese! From the rich, savory blend of ground sausage and velvety cream cheese to the zing of Rotel and the comforting bite of almond flour, this recipe truly celebrates the best of low-carb snacking. With minimal prep time—just 15 minutes—and a quick 25-minute bake, these sausage balls are perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. They fit any occasion, whether you’re hosting a festive party, sneaking in a midday treat, or packing snacks for an adventure. And don’t forget: they’re beginner-friendly, gluten-free, and only 320 calories per serving, making them a crowd-pleasing, guilt-free option.
Feel free to print this article and save it in your go-to recipe binder—you’ll thank yourself the next time you need a fast, flavorful appetizer or snack idea. You can also scroll down to find a helpful FAQ section for tips and troubleshooting. If you try this recipe or have any questions, comments, or feedback, I’d love to hear from you! Let me know how yours turned out, what dipping sauces you paired them with, or any delightful twists you’ve discovered. Happy cooking, and here’s to many more tasty, low-carb creations in your kitchen!
Keto Rotel Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese
Description
These savory sausage balls are packed with flavor from spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty Rotel. They make a perfect low-carb snack or party appetizer!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix well until fully incorporated.
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Add the drained Rotel, almond flour, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined.
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Using a tablespoon or a small scoop, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
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Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
Note
- These sausage balls make a great appetizer or snack and can be served with a dipping sauce of your choice.
- To vary the flavor, try using different types of shredded cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack.
- For spicier sausage balls, opt for a hot variety of sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- These sausage balls can be made in advance and frozen. Simply reheat them in the oven before serving.
- Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a quick low-carb snack.
