“`html
Table of Contents
Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe
Introduction
Are you searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s incredibly easy to make and impossibly delicious? In a recent survey, 78% of home cooks reported that appetizers are key to a successful gathering, and 65% look for recipes that require minimal prep time. Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are the answer to your prayers! These delightful bites perfectly encapsulate creamy goodness with savory sausage, all nestled within a flaky, golden crescent. They are the ultimate combination of flavors and textures that will leave your guests begging for more. Get ready to elevate your party game with this must-try recipe!
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your irresistible Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls:
- Crescent Roll Dough: One (8-ounce) can of refrigerated crescent rolls. Look for the ones that unroll into triangles for the perfect shape. If you prefer a slightly chewier texture, you can opt for seamless crescent dough sheets.
- Sausage: 1 pound of cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage. Pork sausage offers a classic savory flavor, but feel free to experiment with mild Italian sausage or even a spicy chorizo for a kick! Ensure it’s well-drained of any excess grease.
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces of softened cream cheese. Full-fat cream cheese provides the creamiest texture, but light cream cheese works perfectly fine too. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Shredded Cheese: 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack). The melty, gooey cheese is crucial! Aged cheddar will offer a sharper, more pronounced flavor.
- Seasonings (Optional): 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, a pinch of black pepper. These add depth to the filling, but are not strictly necessary if you want to keep it super simple.
Timing
Compared to the average appetizer recipe which can take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour, these Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are a dream for busy hosts! The quick prep time means you can whip them up even for last-minute gatherings.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Sausage
Begin by cooking your breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. You want it to be crumbled to bite-sized pieces. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease thoroughly. This step is key to preventing greasy rolls and ensuring the filling holds together. You can do this ahead of time to save even more time on the day of your gathering!
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked and crumbled sausage, shredded cheese, and any optional seasonings you’re using (garlic powder, onion powder, pepper). Mix everything together until it’s well combined and forms a cohesive, creamy filling. The softened cream cheese will make it easy to incorporate all the ingredients smoothly.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Unroll the crescent dough onto a lightly floured surface. If you are using the traditional triangles, gently press the seams together to create a solid sheet. Spread the sausage and cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from one of the longer sides, carefully and tightly roll up the dough. Once rolled, slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels. You should get about 9-12 rolls depending on your cutting. If you’re using seamless dough sheets, cut them into squares and place a dollop of filling in the center of each, then fold into triangles or wrap them up as you prefer!
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or lightly grease it. Arrange the sausage cream cheese pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the crescent dough is beautifully golden brown and puffed up. The cheese should be melted and slightly gooey.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used. A typical serving (about 1 roll) contains:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 kcal
- Protein: 6-8g
- Fat: 10-14g
- Carbohydrates: 8-10g
Healthier Alternatives
Looking to lighten up this delicious treat without sacrificing flavor? Try these simple swaps:
- Turkey Sausage: Substitute pork sausage with lean ground turkey sausage for a lower-fat option and a slightly different, but still delicious, savory flavor.
- Light Cream Cheese: Use light or Neufchâtel cream cheese to reduce fat content.
- Whole Wheat Crescent Rolls: If available, opt for whole wheat crescent dough for added fiber.
- Reduced-Fat Cheese: Use reduced-fat cheddar or a blend to cut down on saturated fat.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile rolls are perfect for a variety of occasions:
- Appetizer Platter: Serve them warm alongside other appetizers for game day, holiday parties, or potlucks.
- Brunch Staple: A fantastic addition to a brunch spread, offering a savory bite.
- Quick Snack: Enjoy them as a satisfying snack any time of day.
- Dip Accompaniment: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like sriracha mayo, ranch, or a sweet chili sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your rolls turn out perfectly every time, steer clear of these common pitfalls:
- Not Draining Sausage Properly: Excess grease can make the filling oily and prevent the dough from crisping up.
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is essential for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Give the rolls space to expand and cook evenly.
- Not Rolling Tightly Enough: A loose roll can lead to a messy filling and a less appealing presentation.
Storing Tips
Leftover Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls can be stored for a few days. For the best quality:
- Refrigeration: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisp. Microwaving can make them a bit soft.
- Freezing: You can freeze baked and cooled rolls. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
***Can I use pre-cooked sausage like kielbasa or chorizo?***
Yes, you can! If using a fully cooked sausage with a distinct flavor like kielbasa or chorizo, make sure to crumble or dice it finely. Adjust the seasonings in your filling accordingly, as these sausages might already be quite flavorful and salty.
***Can I make these ahead of time?***
You can prepare the sausage and cream cheese filling a day in advance, or even cook the sausage. However, assembling and baking them just before serving is recommended for the best flaky texture. You can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking, but be aware the dough might not rise as much.
***What kind of sausage is best?***
Classic pork breakfast sausage is a fantastic choice for its mild flavor and good fat content that keeps the filling moist. However, feel free to experiment! Spicy Italian sausage, chorizo, or even a plant-based sausage alternative can work, just be mindful of their seasoning profiles.
***Can I add other ingredients to the filling?***
Absolutely! Chopped chives, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or even some finely diced jalapeños can add extra flavor dimensions to your filling.
Conclusion
Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls have officially earned their spot as a go-to recipe in our kitchen. They’re incredibly easy to assemble, come together quickly, and deliver an explosion of savory and creamy flavors that everyone will adore. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a brunch, or just craving a delicious snack, these rolls are sure to impress. Don’t wait – gather your ingredients and bake up a batch of these delightful bites today!
Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
Description
These buttery crescent rolls are stuffed with a creamy, spicy mixture of beef sausage, cream cheese, and Rotel tomatoes with green chilies. Perfect for parties, snacks, or appetizers, they’re irresistibly delicious and easy to make!
Ingredients
- 1pound beef sausage, cooked and crumbled1(8-ounce) package of cream cheese, softened1(10-ounce) can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, well drained2(8-ounce) cans of refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1(8-ounce) package of cream cheese, softened1(10-ounce) can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, well drained2(8-ounce) cans of refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1(10-ounce) can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, well drained2(8-ounce) cans of refrigerated crescent rolls
- 2(8-ounce) cans of refrigerated crescent rolls
Instructions
- 1️⃣Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2️⃣Prepare the Filling:In a large bowl, combine the cooked and crumbled beef sausage, softened cream cheese, and well-drained Rotel tomatoes. Mix until fully combined.3️⃣Prep the Crescent Dough:Unroll the crescent rolls and separate them into individual triangles. Cut each triangle in half lengthwise to create smaller triangles.4️⃣Fill and Roll:Using a cookie scoop or spoon, place a small amount of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Gently roll the dough, starting from the wide end and tucking the filling inside as you go.5️⃣Bake:Place the crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the crescents are golden brown.6️⃣Serve:Remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven!
- 3️⃣Prep the Crescent Dough:Unroll the crescent rolls and separate them into individual triangles. Cut each triangle in half lengthwise to create smaller triangles.4️⃣Fill and Roll:Using a cookie scoop or spoon, place a small amount of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Gently roll the dough, starting from the wide end and tucking the filling inside as you go.5️⃣Bake:Place the crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the crescents are golden brown.6️⃣Serve:Remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven!
- 4️⃣Fill and Roll:Using a cookie scoop or spoon, place a small amount of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Gently roll the dough, starting from the wide end and tucking the filling inside as you go.
- 5️⃣Bake:Place the crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the crescents are golden brown.6️⃣Serve:Remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven!
- 6️⃣Serve:Remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven!
Notes
Customizations:Add shredded cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to the filling for an extra cheesy kick.Make-Ahead Tip:Assemble the crescents and refrigerate them covered until ready to bake.Spice Level:For a milder version, use mild Rotel or swap with diced plain tomatoes.
Make-Ahead Tip:Assemble the crescents and refrigerate them covered until ready to bake.Spice Level:For a milder version, use mild Rotel or swap with diced plain tomatoes.
Spice Level:For a milder version, use mild Rotel or swap with diced plain tomatoes.
“`
