Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are the perfect blend of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and buttery crescent rolls, creating a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack. This recipe is versatile and great for parties, gatherings, or even a quick meal at home. The combination of flavors and textures makes these crescents irresistible, and they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground sausage: The sausage provides a flavorful and hearty base for the filling. You can use mild, spicy, or even flavored sausage, depending on your preference.
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened: Cream cheese adds a rich, creamy texture that perfectly complements the sausage, making the filling smooth and decadent.
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls: Crescent rolls are buttery, flaky, and easy to work with, providing the perfect vessel for the sausage and cream cheese filling.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, cheesy flavor that enhances the richness of the filling.
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional): Green onions add a pop of color and a mild, fresh onion flavor that complements the richness of the sausage and cheese.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Basic seasonings to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the crescent rolls bake evenly and turn out golden brown and flaky.
2. Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until it’s fully browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
- Once the sausage is cooked, drain any excess grease and transfer the sausage to a mixing bowl.
3. Prepare the Filling:
- While the sausage is still warm, add the softened cream cheese to the mixing bowl with the sausage. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and combined with the sausage, creating a smooth and creamy mixture.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the sausage mixture and stir until well combined. The cheddar will add a cheesy richness to the filling.
- If using, stir in the thinly sliced green onions. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Prepare the Crescent Rolls:
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into the individual triangles, following the perforations on the dough.
- On a clean, flat surface, lay out each crescent roll triangle.
5. Fill and Roll the Crescents:
- Place a generous tablespoon of the sausage and cream cheese filling onto the widest part of each crescent roll triangle.
- Starting at the wide end, roll the crescent roll up towards the narrow tip, encasing the filling inside.
- Place the filled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, making sure the tip of the crescent is on the bottom to prevent it from unrolling during baking.
6. Bake:
- Once all the crescents are filled and rolled, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Bake the crescents for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky.
7. Serve:
- Remove the crescents from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional sliced green onions if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Softening the Cream Cheese: Ensure that the cream cheese is softened before mixing it with the sausage. This will make it easier to blend and create a smoother filling.
- Customization: This recipe is highly customizable. You can add other ingredients to the filling, such as chopped bell peppers, diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even a bit of garlic powder or onion powder for added flavor.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese works wonderfully in this recipe, you can also experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: These crescents are great on their own, but they can also be served with a dipping sauce. Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a honey mustard dip would all be excellent choices.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or when you’re craving a tasty snack.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and buttery crescent rolls is simply irresistible. Each bite is packed with flavor, making these crescents a crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile: Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents can be served as an appetizer, a snack, or even a main dish. They’re also great for parties, game days, or casual get-togethers.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love these crescents because they’re cheesy, delicious, and fun to eat. They’re also a great way to introduce kids to new flavors, like green onions, in a familiar and appealing way.
Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a snack, or making them for a quick meal, these crescents deliver on flavor and satisfaction. The combination of sausage, cheese, and buttery crescent rolls is a winner every time. Try this recipe today and watch how quickly these delicious bites disappear!
