If you’re looking for a simple, yet indulgent dish that combines savory flavors with a flaky, buttery crust, look no further than baked sausage and cream cheese crescents. These mouthwatering bites are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a light dinner. The combination of seasoned sausage, creamy cheese, and buttery crescent dough is irresistible!
Here’s an easy recipe to make these baked sausage and cream cheese crescents that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 package of cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
- 1 can of refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 count)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sausage filling:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Brown the sausage until fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Once the sausage is cooked and crumbled, reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated with the sausage.
- If desired, add garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese if using, and mix until melted and creamy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the crescent dough:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Open the can of crescent roll dough and unroll it onto a flat surface. Separate the dough into the triangles as indicated on the package.
3. Assemble the crescents:
- Spoon a generous amount of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the wider end of each crescent dough triangle. Be careful not to overstuff, as it might be difficult to roll.
- Roll each triangle starting from the wide end, gently tucking in the sides as you go to form a crescent shape. Place each rolled crescent on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
4. Bake:
- Once all crescents are assembled and placed on the baking sheet, bake them in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and puffed up.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- After baking, remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Optionally, sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sausage and cream cheese filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the crescents. This will save time if you’re preparing for a party or gathering.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to sneak in some diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the sausage mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Use Different Meats: If you’re not a fan of sausage, you can substitute with ground beef, turkey, or even crumbled bacon for a unique twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these crescents in no time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings, these baked sausage and cream cheese crescents are guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the filling to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.
These baked sausage and cream cheese crescents are perfect for satisfying savory cravings and will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe! Enjoy them fresh from the oven, and watch as they disappear in no time.