Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that combines the savory flavor of sausage with the creamy goodness of cream cheese, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky crescent roll. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, parties, or a quick snack, these crescents are sure to become a favorite in your household. The addition of cheddar cheese and green onions adds extra layers of flavor, making these crescents irresistibly tasty. They’re simple to prepare and bake, ensuring you can whip them up in no time for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground sausage: Provides a savory and meaty base for the filling.
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened: Adds a creamy, rich texture to the filling.
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls: Forms the flaky, buttery outer layer.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a cheesy, melty goodness to the filling.
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional): Adds a fresh, slightly spicy flavor.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor.
Directions
- Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until it’s browned and thoroughly cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
- Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions (if using).
- Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Assemble the Crescents:
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
- Spoon a portion of the sausage cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent roll triangle.
- Roll up the crescent rolls, starting from the wide end and tucking in the sides to enclose the filling. Ensure they are securely rolled to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the filled crescents on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart to allow for expansion during baking.
- Bake them in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once done, remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick breakfast, a tasty snack, or a flavorful appetizer, these Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Serving
Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are best served warm, straight from the oven. They make an excellent addition to a breakfast or brunch spread, and they’re also perfect for parties and gatherings as a tasty appetizer. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or any of your favorite dipping sauces for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
- Sausage: Feel free to use your favorite type of sausage, such as Italian, breakfast, or spicy sausage, depending on your taste preference.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for different flavor profiles.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sausage cream cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble and bake the crescents just before serving.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
- Freezing: These crescents can be frozen before baking. Assemble them as directed, then freeze on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of dough? Yes, you can use puff pastry or biscuit dough as an alternative to crescent roll dough. Adjust the baking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.
What if I don’t have green onions? You can omit the green onions or substitute with finely chopped chives or regular onions for a similar flavor.
Can I make these crescents ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sausage cream cheese mixture and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble and bake the crescents just before serving.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out? Make sure to seal the edges of the crescent rolls well and tuck in the sides as you roll them up. This will help keep the filling inside during baking.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling? Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sausage cream cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I make these crescents gluten-free? You can use gluten-free crescent roll dough or a gluten-free dough alternative to make these crescents suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help maintain their crispy texture.
Can I serve these cold? While Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are best served warm, they can also be enjoyed at room temperature. If serving cold, make sure they are stored properly in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days.
What dipping sauces go well with these crescents? Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, and garlic aioli are all great options for dipping. Feel free to get creative with your favorite sauces.
Can I use flavored cream cheese? Yes, you can use flavored cream cheese, such as garlic and herb or jalapeño, to add extra flavor to the filling.
In conclusion, Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or as an appetizer, these crescents are a hit with their savory sausage, creamy cheese filling, and flaky crescent roll exterior. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe with your family and friends!