Crescent rolls are a beloved staple in many households, known for their buttery, flaky texture and versatile nature. While often associated with sweet treats or simple dinner rolls, crescent rolls can also serve as the foundation for a savory, indulgent snack or appetizer. One delightful way to transform these rolls is by filling them with a mixture of sausage and cream cheese. This recipe for Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents takes a humble can of crescent rolls and elevates it into a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as an appetizer at your next gathering.
These crescents are incredibly easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks. The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and the buttery crescent dough creates a mouthwatering treat that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Recipe: Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage (choose your preferred type: breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, etc.)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or any other type you like)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cans of refrigerated crescent rolls
- A pinch of pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Unroll the crescent rolls and separate each triangle. Slice each triangle in half lengthwise to create smaller triangles.
In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, and a pinch of pepper. Mix until well blended.
Place a small spoonful of the sausage mixture at the wide end of each crescent roll triangle.
Roll up the crescent rolls, starting from the wide end and rolling towards the point.
Arrange the filled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescents are golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Here are some variations and substitutions to tailor these crescents to your taste:
Cheese
- Cheddar Cheese: A classic choice that adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
- Mozzarella: For a milder taste and gooey texture.
- Pepper Jack: Adds a bit of spice for those who enjoy a kick.
- Colby-Jack: A blend of Colby and Monterey Jack for a balanced, creamy flavor.
Sausage
- Breakfast Sausage: Provides a traditional, savory breakfast flavor.
- Italian Sausage: Adds a touch of Italian herbs and spices, perfect for a more robust flavor.
- Chorizo: For a spicy, bold alternative.
- Vegetarian Sausage: Substitute with a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Add-Ins
- Veggies: Diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach can add freshness and nutritional value.
- Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can enhance the flavor profile.
- Spices: A dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika can add depth to the filling.
Dough
- Homemade Crescent Dough: If you prefer, you can make your own dough from scratch for a more artisanal touch.
- Puff Pastry: For an extra flaky and buttery result, puff pastry can be used as a substitute for crescent rolls.
Serving Suggestions
These Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are versatile enough to be served at various times throughout the day. Here are some ideas for when and how to enjoy them:
Breakfast or Brunch
Serve the crescents alongside scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and a cup of coffee for a hearty breakfast or brunch. They are an excellent addition to a breakfast spread, offering a savory alternative to sweet pastries.
Appetizer
Arrange the crescents on a platter and serve them as appetizers at your next gathering. They pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or honey mustard. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect finger food for parties.
Lunch or Dinner
Pair these crescents with a salad or a bowl of soup for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner. The rich, savory flavors complement lighter fare, creating a balanced meal.
Snack
Keep a batch of these crescents on hand for a quick and satisfying snack. They are easy to reheat in the oven or microwave, making them a convenient option for busy days.
Storage and Reheating
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely, given how delicious they are!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds, though the texture may not be as crispy.
Conclusion
Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining the savory richness of sausage with the creamy smoothness of cheese, all wrapped up in a buttery crescent roll. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing for endless customization to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, as an appetizer, or as a snack, these crescents are sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and making this recipe your own. Happy cooking!
Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage breakfast, Italian, or preferred type
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or preferred type
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent rolls
- A pinch of pepper to taste
- Cooking oil for the skillet
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Crescent Rolls: Unroll the crescent rolls and separate each triangle; slice each triangle in half lengthwise.
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until fully browned, then drain excess fat.
- Mix Filling: Combine cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, and pepper in a mixing bowl until well blended.
- Fill Crescents: Place a spoonful of the sausage mixture at the wide end of each crescent roll triangle and roll up.
- Bake Crescents: Arrange the filled crescents on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- Cheese Options: Use cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for gooeyness, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Sausage Variations: Try breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or chorizo for different flavor profiles.
- Add-Ins: Include veggies like bell peppers or herbs for extra flavor.
- Dough Alternatives: Puff pastry can be used for a flakier result.
