Golden, flaky crescent rolls filled with creamy, savory sausage—Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are a versatile dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a quick appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a hearty snack, these rolls come together quickly and deliver big on flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is a guaranteed hit with family and friends alike!
What Makes These Crescent Rolls Special?
These rolls combine the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the bold flavor of sausage, all wrapped in the buttery goodness of crescent roll dough. They’re easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Here’s why they’re a must-try:
- Quick Prep: You can whip these up in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile Appeal: Serve them for any meal or occasion.
- Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients, like shredded cheese or jalapeños, for a personalized touch.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The balance of creamy, savory, and flaky makes them irresistible.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet: For even cooking.
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray: Ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Mixing bowl: For combining the filling.
- Spoon or spatula: For mixing and portioning the filling.
- Measuring cups/spoons: To ensure precise ingredient amounts.
Preparation Tips
- Soften Cream Cheese: Bring the cream cheese to room temperature to make mixing effortless.
- Pre-Cook Sausage: Ensure the sausage is fully cooked before mixing with the cream cheese.
- Keep Dough Cold: Refrigerate crescent roll dough until you’re ready to use it for easier handling and better baking results.
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375ºF. A properly preheated oven ensures even cooking and a golden crust.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and crumbled sausage with the softened cream cheese.
- Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
3. Shape the Dough
- Open the crescent roll cans and carefully separate the dough into triangles.
- For smaller rolls, cut each triangle in half lengthwise to create smaller pieces.
4. Fill and Roll
- Place a small spoonful of the sausage and cream cheese mixture at the wide end of each triangle.
- Starting at the wide end, roll the dough toward the pointed tip, enclosing the filling.
- Place each roll seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or sprayed with non-stick spray.
5. Bake
- Bake the crescent rolls in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
6. Serve
- Remove from the oven and allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Tips and Variations
- Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Diced jalapeños
- Chopped green onions
- For a Crispier Finish: Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter before baking.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.
With these simple steps, you’ll have Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls ready in no time. Their ease of preparation and irresistible flavor make them a go-to recipe for busy mornings, casual brunches, or festive gatherings. In the next section, we’ll cover how to serve them, common mistakes to avoid, and perfect pairings to elevate your dish.
Serving Suggestions
Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are versatile and pair beautifully with various sides and sauces. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your dish:
- Dipping Sauces:
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard
- Marinara sauce
- Spicy sriracha mayo
- For Breakfast or Brunch:
- Serve alongside scrambled eggs or an omelet.
- Add fresh fruit like berries, melon, or sliced oranges for a refreshing contrast.
- As an Appetizer:
- Arrange them on a platter with veggie sticks and a dip.
- Pair with a charcuterie board featuring cheese, cured meats, and crackers.
- For a Light Meal:
- Pair with a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Add a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting combo.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a simple recipe like Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls, a few missteps can affect the final dish. Avoid these common errors:
- Overfilling the Rolls:
- Adding too much filling can cause the rolls to burst during baking. Stick to a small spoonful of filling per roll.
- Using Warm Dough:
- Crescent roll dough becomes harder to handle when warm. Keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to use it.
- Underbaking:
- Rolls that aren’t baked long enough may have a doughy texture. Bake until golden brown for the best results.
- Skipping the Lining:
- Without parchment paper or non-stick spray, the rolls can stick to the pan and lose their shape.
- Forgetting to Preheat the Oven:
- Baking in a non-preheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat to 375ºF before starting.
Perfect Side Dish Recommendations
To turn these rolls into a complete meal or make your appetizer spread unforgettable, try pairing them with these side dishes:
Breakfast or Brunch Options
- Scrambled Eggs: Add a light and fluffy protein option.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of berries, grapes, and pineapple balances the rich rolls with natural sweetness.
- Hash Browns or Breakfast Potatoes: Crisp, savory potatoes complement the creamy filling.
Appetizer Pairings
- Veggie Platter with Dip: Add crunchy, colorful veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers.
- Charcuterie Board: Include cheeses, cured meats, olives, and crackers for variety.
Light Meal Additions
- Mixed Green Salad: Toss leafy greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Cheesy Grits: Creamy, cheesy grits pair wonderfully with the sausage filling.
- Tomato Soup: A warm, comforting soup enhances the overall meal experience.
Next Steps
Now that you know how to serve Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls and avoid common pitfalls, let’s dive into the final details! In the next section, we’ll share recipe tips, storage and reheating instructions, and answer frequently asked questions.
Recipe Tips for the Best Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls
Follow these expert tips to take your rolls to the next level:
- Brush with Butter: Before baking, brush the rolls with melted butter for a golden, glossy finish.
- Sprinkle Toppings: Add sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and texture.
- Use High-Quality Sausage: Opt for a flavorful breakfast sausage or experiment with spicy Italian sausage for a kick.
- Chill the Dough: Keep crescent roll dough cold before assembling to make it easier to handle and shape.
- Customize the Filling: Add extras like shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, or fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley) to the filling for a unique twist.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Place cooled rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Lay unbaked or baked rolls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and transfer to a freezer bag. Frozen rolls can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Instructions
- In the Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and bake for 5–7 minutes for baked rolls. For frozen unbaked rolls, bake at 375ºF for 17–20 minutes.
- In the Microwave: Heat for 15–20 seconds, but note the rolls may lose their crispiness.
FAQs
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the filling and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble. You can also assemble the rolls and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I use crescent roll sheets instead of triangles?
Yes! Crescent roll sheets work perfectly. Cut the dough into smaller triangles or squares before filling.
3. Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes! Freeze unbaked rolls for easy meal prep. When ready to bake, place frozen rolls directly in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
4. What other fillings can I use?
Try experimenting with:
- Spinach and feta
- Buffalo chicken and cream cheese
- Pepperoni and mozzarella for a pizza-style version
5. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese works fine, but the filling may be slightly less rich and creamy.
6. What type of sausage works best?
Breakfast sausage is a classic choice, but spicy Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even turkey sausage can be delicious alternatives.
7. Are these rolls gluten-free?
Unfortunately, crescent rolls contain wheat flour and are not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free crescent roll dough at specialty stores or make your own.
Conclusion
Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are a must-try recipe for anyone seeking a quick, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing dish. With their creamy, savory filling and flaky crust, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a party appetizer. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how versatile they are to customize with your favorite add-ins or dipping sauces.
Whether you’re prepping for a busy morning or entertaining guests, these crescent rolls deliver every time. Try them today, and enjoy the perfect bite of creamy, sausage-filled goodness!
Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage cooked and crumbled
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 cans 8 oz each refrigerated crescent rolls
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ºF.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked and crumbled sausage with the softened cream cheese. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Shape the Dough: Separate the crescent roll dough into individual triangles. Cut each triangle in half lengthwise to create smaller triangles.
- Fill and Roll: Place a small portion of the sausage and cream cheese mixture on the wider end of each triangle. Roll up the dough, starting at the wide end and rolling toward the pointed tip. Place each roll seam-side down on a baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm.
Notes
Variations: Try adding shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, or chopped green onions to the filling for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with a dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard for a tasty twist.
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