Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

There’s nothing quite like a crescent-shaped pastry filled with sausage and cream cheese. And while they might look fancy, these Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are actually quite easy to make! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an appetizer, these delightful pastries combine creamy filling with flaky dough for a treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
• Versatile: Enjoy them for breakfast, as party snacks, or even a light lunch.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These savory bites are always a hit at gatherings and family dinners.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the cheeses or add spices to cater to your taste preferences.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze for later. You’ll always have a delicious snack on hand!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure smooth preparation. Having the right kitchen equipment can make all the difference in achieving perfect Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and browning of your crescents.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix your filling ingredients thoroughly.
• Rolling pin: Helps flatten the crescent rolls for easier filling and rolling.
• Spatula: Useful for transferring the crescents from the baking sheet to your serving plate without damage.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 lb. Ground sausage (breakfast, Italian or other)
• 1 C. Shredded cheese of choice
• 8 oz. Cream cheese softened
• Pepper to taste

For the Dough

• 2 Cans refrigerated crescent rolls

How to Make Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that it’s hot enough to create crispy, golden crescents.

Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Rolls

Roll out the crescent rolls on a clean surface. Cut each triangle in half lengthwise so that you can create smaller crescent shapes for easier handling.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until it is completely browned. Make sure to break it apart while cooking for an even texture.

Step 4: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with softened cream cheese and shredded cheese of your choice. Add pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 5: Fill the Crescent Rolls

Spoon a small ball of the sausage mixture onto the widest end of each piece of crescent roll dough where it is fattest.

Step 6: Roll Up the Crescents

Starting at the widest end, carefully roll up each crescent roll dough over the sausage filling. Pinch any seams closed to keep filling from leaking out during baking.

Step 7: Bake

Place rolled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Enjoy your delicious Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a quick snack, these little pastries can be paired with various accompaniments for an amazing flavor experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing – A creamy and tangy option that complements the savory filling.
• Honey Mustard – Sweet and zesty, this sauce adds a delightful contrast.
• Spicy Sriracha Aioli – For those who enjoy some heat, this aioli brings bold flavors.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Fresh Fruit Platter – Light and refreshing, fruits offer a sweet balance to the savory crescents.
• Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy eggs make for a hearty addition to your brunch table.
• Mixed Greens Salad – A simple salad with vinaigrette can light up the meal.

For Game Day Snacks

• Vegetable Platter – Crunchy veggies with dip can add freshness to your snack spread.
• Chips and Salsa – A classic combination that’s always a hit during game days.

How to Perfect Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

To ensure your Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Softened Cream Cheese – This makes it easier to mix with other ingredients and helps in achieving a smooth filling.
• Don’t Overfill the Dough – Adding too much filling can cause them to burst while baking. A small ball is just right.
• Ensure Even Cooking – Rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking for even browning and cooking.
• Experiment with Cheeses – Different shredded cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella can elevate the flavor profile of the crescents.
• Season Generously – Don’t hesitate to add pepper or even herbs like parsley for extra flavor in your mixture.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

Pairing side dishes with Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Crispy Potato Wedges – Seasoned and baked wedges that add a satisfying crunch.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the savory pastries.
3. Fruit Salad – A medley of seasonal fruits brings sweetness and color to your plate.
4. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft, buttery breadsticks complement the richness of the crescents wonderfully.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies offer both flavor and nutrition alongside your dish.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful peppers filled with rice or quinoa add heartiness and vibrancy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents can be straightforward, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden-brown finish.
• Overfilling the Crescents: It’s tempting to add a lot of filling, but overfilling can cause them to burst during baking. Stick to a small ball of mixture for best results.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This makes mixing easier and helps create a smoother filling.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Letting the sausage cool before mixing it with cream cheese is crucial. Hot sausage can make the cream cheese melt too much, changing the texture.
• Not Checking Doneness: Keep an eye on the crescents as they bake. Ovens can vary in temperature, so check for that golden brown color rather than relying solely on time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

• Place in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until hot, but be cautious as this can make them soggy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, turning frequently until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents, here are some helpful answers.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or beef for the sausage if you prefer or have dietary restrictions.

How do I customize my Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents?

Feel free to add spices like garlic powder or herbs like parsley to enhance flavor. You can also mix in veggies such as chopped bell peppers or onions.

Can I make these crescents ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them and store them in the fridge before baking. Just bake when you’re ready!

What should I serve with Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents?

These pastries pair well with fresh fruit, a side salad, or even scrambled eggs for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether as a breakfast treat or an appetizer at gatherings, you can easily customize them with your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how simple and satisfying these crescents are!