Sausage Pinwheels

Sausage pinwheels are a deliciously simple and savory appetizer that’s guaranteed to please any crowd. Made with flaky crescent rolls, rich cream cheese, gooey cheddar, and flavorful sausage, these bite-sized snacks are perfect for game days, potlucks, or casual get-togethers. With minimal prep and a short bake time, these pinwheels are as quick to whip up as they are to vanish from the platter!

Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a fun recipe to try, sausage pinwheels are the ultimate choice for effortless entertaining. Their creamy, cheesy, and savory filling encased in golden, buttery dough makes them a must-try appetizer.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes of active prep time.
• Crowd-Pleasing: These pinwheels are a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile: Perfect for parties, game days, or even as a snack.
• Customizable: Swap out cheeses, add spices, or experiment with different sausages to make it your own.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake just before serving!

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wax Paper: Helps prevent the dough from sticking during rolling.
• Plastic Wrap: Keeps the pinwheels firm while chilling.
• Offset Spatula: Ensures even spreading of the cream cheese.
• Large Skillet: For cooking the sausage evenly.
• Sharp Knife: Provides clean slices for perfectly shaped pinwheels.
• Baking Sheet: Use a nonstick or parchment-lined sheet for easy cleanup.

Importance of Each Tool

• Wax paper and plastic wrap make handling delicate dough effortless.
• A sharp knife prevents the dough from squishing when slicing the pinwheels.
• The offset spatula ensures the filling is spread evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.

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Preparation Tips

• Chill the Dough: Keeping the dough cold makes it easier to handle and prevents it from becoming too soft.
• Cool the Sausage: Let the cooked sausage cool slightly before assembling to avoid melting the cream cheese prematurely.
• Work Quickly: Crescent rolls can become sticky when warm, so assemble them promptly.
• Pinch the Seams: Ensure any perforations in the crescent roll dough are sealed to prevent leaks.

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Ingredients

Main Components

• 2 (8-ounce) packages refrigerated crescent rolls

Filling

• 1 pound bulk pork sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Sausage

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the bulk pork sausage and cook until browned and crumbly, about 10 minutes.
3. Drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside to cool.

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2. Prepare the Dough

1. Lay out a sheet of wax paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Unroll one package of crescent rolls onto the wax paper.
3. Pinch the perforations to form a seamless sheet of dough.

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3. Add the Filling

1. Spread half of the softened cream cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
   • Tip: An offset spatula makes spreading easier.
2. Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage evenly over the cream cheese layer.
3. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.

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4. Roll and Wrap

1. Using the wax paper to assist, tightly roll the dough lengthwise into a log, encasing the filling.
2. Wrap the log securely in plastic wrap to hold its shape.
3. Repeat the process with the second package of crescent rolls and the remaining ingredients.

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5. Chill

1. Refrigerate the wrapped logs for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to slice.
   • Tip: Chilling helps the log retain its shape when cut.

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6. Slice and Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the logs from the refrigerator, unwrap, and slice each into ½-inch-thick pinwheels using a sharp knife.
3. Arrange the pinwheels on a baking sheet, leaving at least 1 inch between each.
4. Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until golden brown.

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7. Serve

1. Let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving.
2. Enjoy warm and watch them disappear!

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Notes

• Dough Tip: Crescent roll sheets (instead of perforated crescent rolls) make the process even easier.
• Spread Tip: Use a light touch when spreading cream cheese to avoid tearing the dough.
• Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s essential for neat slices.
• Baking Tip: Leave enough space between pinwheels for even baking.

Serving Suggestions

Sausage pinwheels are not only delicious but versatile in how they can be served. Here are some ways to make them shine at your next event:

• Party Platter: Arrange the pinwheels on a large platter, garnished with sprigs of fresh parsley or rosemary for a festive touch.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve alongside small bowls of:
  • Ranch dressing
  • Honey mustard
  • Marinara sauce
  • Spicy aioli
• Snack Board: Pair these pinwheels with an assortment of other appetizers like stuffed mushrooms, cheese cubes, or mini quiches.
• Breakfast Side: Serve as part of a hearty breakfast spread with scrambled eggs and fruit salad.
• Game Day Spread: Add them to a lineup of nachos, wings, and sliders for the ultimate game day feast.

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Side Dish Recommendations

Pairing your sausage pinwheels with complementary sides can elevate your meal or party spread. Here are 8 great options:

1. Mini Vegetable Skewers: Fresh, crisp veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers on toothpicks make a refreshing contrast to the savory pinwheels.
2. Fresh Fruit Platter: Add sweetness to the table with a colorful mix of fruits like grapes, pineapple, and strawberries.
3. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Serve this creamy dip with crackers or chips alongside the pinwheels.
4. Loaded Baked Potato Bites: Small potatoes topped with sour cream, bacon, and chives make an irresistible pairing.
5. Deviled Eggs: A classic party favorite that balances the rich, cheesy flavors of the pinwheels.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Offer warm, buttery breadsticks for guests to enjoy with their pinwheels.
7. Caesar Salad Cups: Individual cups of Caesar salad add a touch of freshness to the spread.
8. Tomato Basil Soup Shots: Serve small portions of warm soup as a cozy, dip-able side.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

While sausage pinwheels are easy to make, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your pinwheels come out just right:

1. Overfilling the Dough: Adding too much filling can make the dough difficult to roll and result in messy pinwheels with filling spilling out during baking.
   • Solution: Use the recommended amounts of filling and leave a ½-inch border around the edges.
2. Skipping the Chilling Step: Skipping the refrigeration step can make slicing difficult, causing the dough to tear or flatten.
   • Solution: Always chill the logs for at least 1 hour or longer if needed.
3. Using Warm Dough: Crescent rolls that have become too warm can be sticky and hard to handle.
   • Solution: Work with cold dough and roll it quickly. If it starts to soften, refrigerate it for 10 minutes.
4. Not Sealing the Edges: Failing to pinch the dough’s edges can lead to the filling spilling out during baking.
   • Solution: Ensure the edges of the dough are sealed tightly before rolling.
5. Crowding the Baking Sheet: Placing the pinwheels too close together can result in uneven baking.
   • Solution: Leave at least 1 inch between each pinwheel to allow for expansion.

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How to Perfect the Recipe

• Cheese Tips: For an extra cheesy experience, sprinkle a little cheese over the top of each pinwheel before baking.
• Sausage Alternatives: Try Italian sausage, spicy chorizo, or even vegetarian sausage for a twist.
• Add Extra Flavor: Sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or crushed red pepper flakes onto the cream cheese layer for an extra punch of flavor.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the logs the day before and refrigerate overnight. Slice and bake just before serving.
• Try Puff Pastry: For an even flakier texture, use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls.

Recipe Tips

• Experiment with Fillings: While sausage, cream cheese, and cheddar are a winning combination, you can customize the filling to suit your preferences.
  • Try adding finely chopped spinach or jalapeños for a fresh or spicy twist.
  • Use mozzarella or pepper jack instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Use Pre-Shredded Cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheese, but ensure it’s fresh for maximum meltiness.
• Herb It Up: Sprinkle fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary onto the cream cheese layer for a pop of flavor.
• Make It Sweet and Savory: Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling a thin layer of honey or maple syrup over the cream cheese before adding the sausage.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage Tips:

• Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the layers of pinwheels separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Tips:

• For unbaked pinwheels: Place the sliced, unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them individually until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
  • Bake directly from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to the baking time.
• For baked pinwheels: Let them cool completely before freezing. Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions:

• From the fridge: Reheat pinwheels in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until warmed through.
• From frozen: Reheat directly in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. Avoid reheating in the microwave to preserve their crispy texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make sausage pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough logs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking. This makes them perfect for entertaining or busy schedules.

2. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?
Absolutely! Puff pastry works well and gives the pinwheels an extra buttery, flaky texture. Just make sure to keep the pastry cold before rolling and slicing.

3. What other fillings can I try?
You can experiment with a variety of fillings such as:

• Cooked bacon or ham instead of sausage.
• Spinach, artichoke, or sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian option.
• A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy kick.

4. How do I keep the filling from spilling out during baking?
Make sure to leave a border around the edges of the dough and avoid overfilling. Pinching the seams of the dough and rolling tightly will also help prevent leaks.

5. Can I make these pinwheels gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free crescent roll dough or puff pastry to adapt the recipe for gluten-free guests.

6. Can I serve sausage pinwheels at room temperature?
Yes, they can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a great option for party platters. However, they taste best when slightly warm.

7. How many pinwheels does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 32 pinwheels, depending on how thickly you slice them.

8. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes! Pre-cooked sausage can save time. Just crumble it finely and ensure it’s evenly distributed.

9. What dipping sauces pair best with sausage pinwheels?
Popular options include ranch dressing, honey mustard, marinara, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.

10. Can I bake them in an air fryer?
Yes, air fryers work great for pinwheels! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F, place the pinwheels in a single layer, and cook for 8–10 minutes or until golden brown.

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Conclusion

Sausage pinwheels are the ultimate appetizer that combines simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Their flaky, cheesy, and savory goodness makes them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual game night or an elegant holiday party. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple preparation, you can whip up these crowd-pleasers in no time.

Plus, the recipe is highly adaptable—swap out ingredients, experiment with flavors, or make them ahead to fit your schedule. Serve them warm with your favorite dips or alongside complementary sides for a spread that will leave your guests raving.

Ready to wow your guests with these irresistible sausage pinwheels? Give them a try and share your variations and tips!