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Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe

Dreaming of an appetizer that’s both incredibly easy to make and spectacularly delicious? If your taste buds crave a harmonious blend of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and flaky, buttery pastry, you’re in the right place. Are you looking for an appetizer that consistently wins rave reviews at parties and family gatherings, requires minimal effort, and uses readily available ingredients? Then the Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls recipe is your new go-to solution.

Introduction: The Allure of Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

In the vast universe of appetizers and party snacks, few manage to strike the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and simplicity quite like these Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls. They are the epitome of “more is more” when it comes to deliciousness, yet surprisingly “less is more” in terms of preparation time and fuss. Imagine tender, savory sausage pieces swirled into a rich, tangy cream cheese mixture, all encased in the golden, flaky embrace of a crescent roll. It’s a flavor combination that’s universally loved, making these rolls a surefire hit whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, a casual game night, or simply craving a delightful snack.

What makes this recipe truly special is its adaptability. It’s incredibly forgiving, making it perfect for novice cooks, while experienced chefs can easily customize it to their liking. The core ingredients are simple, but the resulting taste experience is anything but. These rolls are warm, comforting, and utterly satisfying, each bite a testament to the magic that happens when quality ingredients come together with minimal effort. Get ready to impress your guests and yourself with this unbelievably easy yet decadent treat.

Irresistible Ingredients for Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

The beauty of Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls lies in their simplicity, allowing the flavors of high-quality ingredients to shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

The Savory Star: Sausage

1 pound breakfast sausage (or Italian sausage, mild or spicy)

Sensory Description: Opt for a rich, flavorful sausage that crumbles well when cooked. Breakfast sausage offers a classic, slightly sweet, and herbaceous profile, while Italian sausage (mild or spicy) introduces a more complex blend of fennel, garlic, and herbs, adding an exciting kick. The fat content in good sausage is crucial for flavor and moisture.

Substitution/Variation: For a different flavor profile, consider using cooked ground chicken or turkey mixed with your favorite sausage seasonings. If you prefer no pork, an all-beef sausage or even a plant-based sausage alternative can work, though cooking times may vary.

The Velvety Base: Cream Cheese

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

Sensory Description: Full-fat cream cheese is essential for achieving that luscious, creamy texture and tangy counterpoint to the savory sausage. Ensure it’s fully softened to room temperature to avoid lumps and ensure easy mixing.

Substitution/Variation: If you’re not a fan of the tanginess of cream cheese, you can use an equal amount of softened mascarpone cheese for a richer, milder flavor. For a lighter option, reduced-fat cream cheese can be used, though the texture might be slightly less decadent.

The Flaky Foundation: Crescent Rolls

2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent rolls

Sensory Description: These canned crescent rolls are the secret to the recipe’s speed and ease. They unfurl into thin, buttery layers that bake up incredibly flaky and golden brown, providing a delightful contrast to the rich filling.

Substitution/Variation: If you prefer a heartier base, you can use refrigerated biscuit dough (cut into smaller pieces) or even puff pastry sheets (thawed and cut to size). For a homemade touch, consider using your favorite homemade roll dough, though this will significantly increase prep time.

A Touch of Magic: Seasonings and Extras

1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)

Sensory Description: Sautéed onions add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the savory sausage and tangy cream cheese.

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Sensory Description: Garlic powder provides a convenient burst of pungent, savory flavor without the need to mince fresh garlic.

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Sensory Description: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and a hint of spice that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Optional: Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack), fresh herbs (chives, parsley)

Sensory Description: A sprinkle of cheese melts into the filling, adding an extra layer of gooey deliciousness. Fresh herbs offer a vibrant, aromatic finish.

Perfect Timing for Your Rolls

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 20-25 minutes

Total time: 35-40 minutes

Comparison to Average Recipes: This recipe boasts a significantly shorter total time compared to many homemade savory rolls, which can often take over an hour from start to finish. The use of refrigerated dough and pre-cooked sausage dramatically streamlines the process, making it an ideal weeknight appetizer or a last-minute party contribution.

Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls ready to bake

Step-by-Step Culinary Journey

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep Your Station

First things first, let’s get your oven ready. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, grab a large skillet and a baking sheet. You might want to line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. Also, make sure your cream cheese has had enough time to soften to room temperature; this is key for a smooth, lump-free filling.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Place the pound of breakfast sausage in your skillet over medium heat. Use a spoon or spatula to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking until it’s nicely browned and no pink remains. If you’re adding chopped onion, you can toss it in during the last few minutes of cooking the sausage to soften and caramelize slightly. Once the sausage (and onion, if using) is cooked, drain off any excess grease very thoroughly. A well-drained sausage prevents soggy rolls.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the drained cooked sausage with the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper. If you’re adding any optional shredded cheese or fresh herbs at this stage, now’s the time to stir them in. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and the cream cheese is fully incorporated, creating a thick, spreadable, and incredibly flavorful mixture. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed – perhaps a pinch more pepper or a dash of your favorite spice blend?

Step 4: Assemble the Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

Unroll the two cans of crescent rolls onto a lightly floured surface. You can either keep them as triangles and spread the filling on the wide end, then roll them up, or separate the perforations to make smaller, bite-sized rolls. For the latter, gently press the perforations together to seal. Spread a generous dollop of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto each crescent roll (or the wide end if keeping as triangles). Be careful not to overfill, as it can make sealing difficult.

If you’re using the triangles, fold the narrow end over the filling and then roll them up tightly, starting from the wide end. If you separated the dough, you can carefully pinch the edges to enclose the filling, or simply fold one half over the other and press gently. Ensure the filling is well-contained to prevent it from leaking out during baking.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Carefully place the assembled rolls onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Make sure they have a little breathing room so they can puff up. Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbly and heated through. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent burning.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked to perfection, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls cool on the baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes. This allows them to set slightly and makes them easier to handle. Serve them warm and watch them disappear!

Nutritional Snapshot

While exact nutritional values can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used, here’s a general estimate per roll (assuming 16 rolls per recipe):

Calories: Approximately 150-200 kcal
Protein: 5-7g
Fat: 10-14g
Carbohydrates: 8-12g
Sugar: 2-4g

Disclaimer: This is an approximate nutritional breakdown. For precise information, consult a nutritional calculator with your specific ingredients.

Healthier Twists on a Classic

Looking to enjoy these delightful rolls with a slightly lighter touch? Here are a few swaps that maintain flavor while reducing some of the richness:

Leaner Sausage: Use turkey or chicken breakfast sausage, or a lean pork sausage, to reduce saturated fat.
Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese: While it might slightly alter the creaminess, using reduced-fat cream cheese is a straightforward way to cut calories and fat.
Whole Wheat Crescent Rolls: If available, opt for whole wheat versions for added fiber.
Add More Veggies: Mix finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the sausage mixture for added nutrients and fiber without significantly changing the flavor profile.
Smaller Portions: Simply make smaller rolls or serve fewer per person.

Serving Up Success: What to Pair Them With

These Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect as:

Appetizers: Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce or a ranch dip.
Party Snacks: A crowd-pleasing addition to any buffet or potluck.
Brunch Items: A savory complement to sweet pastries or alongside eggs and bacon.
Game Day Treats: The ultimate finger food for watching the big game.

They pair wonderfully with a crisp salad, a hearty soup, or as a flavorful side to main dishes like chili or roasted chicken.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

To ensure your Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls turn out perfectly every time, keep these common mistakes in mind:

Not Draining Sausage Properly: Excess grease will make your rolls soggy and unappetizing. Drain thoroughly!
Using Cold Cream Cheese: Lumpy cream cheese leads to an uneven filling. Always use softened cream cheese for smooth integration.
Overfilling the Rolls: Too much filling will cause it to leak out during baking, creating a mess and potentially leaving your rolls underfilled.
Not Sealing the Dough Properly: Ensure the crescent roll dough is sealed around the filling to keep everything contained. Pinching seams where needed is important.
Overbaking: Keep an eye on the rolls in the oven. They can go from golden brown to burnt quickly.

Storing Your Savory Delights

If, by some miracle, you have leftover Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls, they can be stored. Once cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will keep in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them after they’ve cooled. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Close-up of golden brown Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls on a plate

A Deliciously Simple Finale

There you have it – a recipe for Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls that is as straightforward as it is satisfying. They offer that perfect blend of creamy, savory, and flaky goodness that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these rolls are guaranteed to be a hit for any occasion. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and prepare for an explosion of flavor. Don’t wait – whip up a batch today and experience the culinary magic!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

What kind of sausage is best?

Breakfast sausage is classic, but any fully cooked sausage like Italian, chorizo, or even a smoked sausage works wonderfully. Choose one with a flavor profile you enjoy.

Can I use homemade dough?

You absolutely can! If you have a favorite yeast roll or biscuit dough recipe, feel free to use that. Just be aware that it will significantly increase your prep time.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Ensure you don’t overfill the crescent rolls. Gently pinch the seams of the dough together to seal the filling inside. If using triangle pieces, ensure the filling is centered on the wide end before rolling tightly.

Are there vegetarian options?

For a vegetarian version, you can omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or use a plant-based sausage substitute.

Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents

Print Recipe

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!

Author: Chef Sally

Ingredients

Scale

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.

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