Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are an easy and delicious appetizer or snack that combines savory sausage, creamy cheese, and buttery crescent rolls. This recipe is perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a quick breakfast. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up these crowd-pleasers in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground sausage (breakfast, Italian, or any variety you prefer)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent rolls
- Pepper, to taste
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until it is fully browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once the sausage is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 2: Combine the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with the softened cream cheese. Stir until the sausage and cream cheese are evenly mixed. Then, add the shredded cheese and mix everything together until well combined. Season the filling with pepper to taste.
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Rolls
Open the cans of refrigerated crescent rolls and unroll the dough. Separate the dough into individual triangles along the perforated lines. Each triangle will be used to wrap the sausage filling.
Step 4: Fill the Crescent Rolls
Place a spoonful of the sausage and cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent roll triangle. Roll up the crescent dough from the wide end to the narrow tip, tucking the edges as needed to keep the filling inside. Place the filled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Step 5: Bake the Crescents
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the oven is heated, bake the crescents for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These Sausage Cream Cheese Crescentsare best served warm, but they are delicious at any temperature.
Cooking Notes:
- Sausage: You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or spicy sausage for added heat.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese works well, but feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese that melts nicely.
- Pepper: Add additional seasoning to taste, such as garlic powder or onion powder, to enhance the flavor of the filling.
Variations:
1. Spicy Sausage Crescents:
Use spicy sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a bit of heat.
2. Herb and Garlic Crescents:
Add a teaspoon of garlic powder and a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) to the sausage and cream cheese mixture for added flavor.
3. Veggie-Stuffed Crescents:
Mix in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms with the sausage and cream cheese for a heartier filling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make these crescents ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the crescents and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover crescents in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to crisp them back up.
Q: Can I freeze these crescents?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked crescents. Once assembled, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, place them directly in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are a quick, flavorful, and versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and buttery crescent rolls creates an irresistible treat. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even breakfast, these crescents are sure to be a hit with everyone!