Introduction
Sausage cream cheese crescents are a delightful dish that combine the flavor of savory sausage with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all wrapped in buttery crescent dough. Perfect as an appetizer or a snack, these bites are sure to impress your guests at any gathering.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether it’s a casual get-together with friends or a festive celebration, these crescents add a touch of comfort and indulgence to your table. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, allowing you to focus on enjoying the occasion rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
The base of this recipe, crescent roll dough is flaky and buttery, providing a perfect outer layer that contrasts with the rich filling. It puffs up beautifully in the oven, creating a golden-brown exterior. - 1 lb breakfast sausage
Breakfast sausage adds a savory and slightly spicy flavor that’s essential for these crescents. Choose a variety that matches your preferred taste, whether mild or spicy, as it forms the heart of the filling. - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Cream cheese brings a luscious creaminess to the dish, balancing the savory elements of the sausage. Soften it beforehand to make mixing easier and ensure a smooth texture in the filling. - 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Shredded cheese enhances the richness and adds a gooey texture once melted. It also contributes a layer of flavor; cheddar will provide a sharper contrast, while mozzarella offers a mild, stretchy quality. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder infuses a depth of flavor into the mixture, enhancing the savory notes of the sausage and the creaminess of the cheese. It's a simple way to elevate the overall taste. - Salt and pepper to taste
Salt and pepper are essential in balancing the flavors of your filling. Adjust these seasonings according to your preference and the seasoning of the sausage you choose.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Preheating the oven ensures that your crescents bake evenly and turn out perfectly golden. Starting with a hot oven will help achieve that delightful puffiness and flaky texture in the dough.
Step 2: In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
Cooking the sausage thoroughly is vital, as it not only ensures food safety but also allows the flavors to develop. Use a spatula to break up the sausage into small pieces for even cooking and better integration into the filling.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Blending these ingredients together creates a rich and flavorful filling. Make sure the cream cheese is soft enough to mix easily; this ensures a smooth texture and an even distribution of flavors throughout the mixture.
Step 4: Unroll the crescent roll dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. Unrolling the dough carefully avoids tearing, ensuring you have intact triangles for wrapping the filling.
Step 5: Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the sausage mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle.
Properly portioning the filling is key—avoid overfilling to ensure the crescent rolls can close properly. Be generous, though, as the flavor and richness depend on the filling!
Step 6: Roll up each crescent starting from the wide end and place on the baking sheet.
Rolling tightly but not excessively will help keep the filling inside while baking. The shape is also important for even cooking and for a visually appealing presentation.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Baking time is crucial to achieve that perfect golden hue on the outside while allowing the filling to heat through. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to avoid over-browning.
Step 8: Let the sausage cream cheese crescents cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooling slightly allows the filling to set and makes them easier to handle. This short rest also enhances the flavors by giving them a moment to meld together before serving.
Perfect Pairings for Your Crescents
These sausage cream cheese crescents can be paired with a variety of sides to elevate your meal. Consider serving them with a zesty marinara sauce or a spicy mustard dip. A light salad or vegetable platter complements the richness of the crescents, adding fresh flavors and textures that balance the dish beautifully.
Customizing Your Filling
Feel free to get creative with your filling! You can add sautéed onions or bell peppers for additional flavor and texture. Spices such as red pepper flakes can give a spicy kick, while herbs like chives or parsley add freshness. Consider experimenting with different cheeses for unique flavor profiles that can cater to different palates.
Hosting with Style
These crescents are not just delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for entertaining. Arrange them on a platter with a colorful garnish of fresh herbs or slices of lemon for an inviting presentation. Their ease of preparation allows you to spend more time with your guests, making your event both stylish and enjoyable.
FAQs
What can I do if the filling is too thick?
If the filling seems too thick, consider adding a teaspoon or two of milk or cream cheese to loosen it up. This will help in spreading and wrapping the filling more easily in the crescent dough.
How do I make these crescents more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider incorporating additional seasonings such as smoked paprika, or mixing in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the filling for freshness.
Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner alternative. Just be sure to season it well since turkey is milder in flavor than traditional sausage.
Why did my crescents flatten while baking?
If your crescents flatten, it could be due to the dough being too warm or uncoiled before baking. Ensure your dough is chilled and roll them tightly before placing them in the oven.
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Cream cheese pairs well with goat cheese, feta, or even a blend of your favorites for a unique taste.
How do I know when the crescents are fully cooked?
The crescents are ready when they are golden brown on the outside and the filling is bubbling slightly. Use a toothpick to check the filling center for warmth.
Conclusion
Sausage cream cheese crescents are not only easy to whip up, but they also make a wonderful addition to any food spread or gathering. Their warm, flavorful filling encased in flaky pastry is sure to satisfy the taste buds of everyone around the table.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or venture out with your creative customizations, these crescents promise to be a hit at your next event. Enjoy the process of sharing delicious food and good company!
Recipe Card
Savory Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents for Entertaining
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the sausage mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle.
- Roll up each crescent starting from the wide end and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let the sausage cream cheese crescents cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
