Prepare to impress your guests with a tantalizing appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. These Kilted Sausage Bites are perfect for parties, game nights, or anytime you’re craving a savory snack with a touch of sweetness. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients:
- 2 (8 oz) crescent roll dough sheet
- 2 12 oz kielbasa or smoked sausages
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
Glaze:
- ⅓ cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Sausage and Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cheese and cream cheese until well blended.
- Slice the kielbasa or smoked sausages into bite-sized rounds.
- Assemble the Bites:
- Roll out the crescent roll dough sheets and cut them into squares.
- Place a small spoonful of the cheese mixture on each dough square.
- Top the cheese mixture with a slice of sausage.
- Roll up the dough around the sausage and cheese, sealing the edges.
- Glaze and Bake:
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, dijon mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce to make the glaze.
- Brush the glaze over the assembled sausage bites.
- Sprinkle poppy seeds on top for added flavor and texture.
- Place the bites on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as is!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Dipping Sauces: These sausage bites pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces such as spicy mustard, barbecue sauce, or even ranch dressing.
- Variety of Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack are all great options.
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the sausage with vegetarian sausage or omit it altogether and simply enjoy the cheesy crescent rolls.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make these sausage bites ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the bites ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to brush on the glaze right before baking.
Q: Can I freeze these sausage bites? A: Yes, these sausage bites freeze well. Once baked, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough? A: Yes, you can use puff pastry for a slightly different texture. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly as puff pastry may cook faster.
Q: Can I make these sausage bites spicy? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add some chopped jalapenos or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
Q: Are these sausage bites kid-friendly? A: Yes, these sausage bites are a hit with kids! They’re fun to eat and packed with cheesy goodness.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following substitutions:
- Dough: Use low-carb dough made from almond flour or coconut flour instead of crescent roll dough.
- Sweetener: Replace brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Glaze: Omit the brown sugar from the glaze or use a sugar-free syrup for sweetness.
In conclusion, these Kilted Sausage Bites are the ultimate party appetizer that’s sure to impress even the toughest of critics. With their irresistible combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and buttery dough, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a savory snack, these bites are a must-try. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and watch them vanish before your eyes!
