Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents: A Flavorful Delight

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Imagine the perfect blend of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and buttery, flaky crescent rolls coming together in a bite-sized delight. Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or needing an appetizer that will impress your guests, these crescents are the answer. With a harmonious balance of textures and flavors, they are incredibly easy to make and disappear almost as quickly as they come out of the oven. Follow this simple recipe, and you’ll have a mouth-watering treat that everyone will love.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground sausage
  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

How to Make Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until it’s no longer pink. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Mix with cream cheese: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Prepare the crescents: Open the cans of crescent rolls and separate the dough into triangles.
  5. Fill the crescents: Place a spoonful of the sausage and cream cheese mixture at the wide end of each triangle. Roll up each triangle, starting at the wide end, and place on an ungreased baking sheet.
  6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes, or until golden brown.
  7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Tips for Making Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

  • Use softened cream cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Don’t overfill: Avoid overfilling the crescents to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
  • Experiment with flavors: Add a dash of your favorite spices or herbs to the sausage mixture for a unique twist.

Substitutions or Variations

  • Spicy sausage: Use spicy sausage for an extra kick.
  • Different cheeses: Substitute cream cheese with other soft cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese.
  • Vegetarian option: Use vegetarian sausage crumbles as a meat-free alternative.
  • Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach into the filling.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

How do you prevent the filling from leaking out of the crescents?

Preventing the filling from leaking out of Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents is all about technique and ensuring a proper seal. Here are several strategies to help you achieve perfect crescents every time:

  1. Proper Sealing: One of the primary reasons for leakage is that the crescent rolls are not sealed properly. When you place the sausage and cream cheese mixture on the dough, ensure it’s centered and not overfilled. Carefully roll the dough starting from the wide end towards the narrow end. Pinch the seams and any open edges to ensure they are tightly sealed. You can even slightly stretch the dough over the filling to make sure it’s fully enclosed.
  2. Cool Filling: If the sausage mixture is too hot when you fill the crescents, it can cause the dough to become too soft and tear easily. Allow the sausage and cream cheese mixture to cool to room temperature before filling the crescents. This makes the dough easier to handle and helps keep the filling intact.
  3. Even Distribution: Distribute the filling evenly across each crescent roll triangle. If one side is overloaded, it can cause the dough to burst open during baking. Using a small spoon or cookie scoop can help you measure equal amounts of filling for each crescent.
  4. Proper Baking Temperature: Baking at the correct temperature ensures that the dough cooks evenly and quickly enough to seal the edges before the filling starts to ooze out. Follow the recipe’s recommended temperature, typically 375°F (190°C).
  5. Chill the Crescents Before Baking: After rolling the crescents, place them in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps the dough firm up slightly, making it less likely to burst open during baking.
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Can you make Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents ahead of time, which is especially convenient for parties or busy schedules. Here are a few methods to prepare them in advance:

  1. Prepare the Filling Ahead: One simple way to save time is to prepare the sausage and cream cheese filling ahead of time. Cook the sausage, mix it with the cream cheese, and store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the crescents with the pre-made filling.
  2. Assemble and Refrigerate: You can also fully assemble the Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents and refrigerate them before baking. Place the prepared crescents on a baking sheet, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake as directed. This method ensures that the crescents are fresh and warm when served.
  3. Freeze Unbaked Crescents: To make crescents even further in advance, you can freeze them before baking. Assemble the crescents and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the crescents to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  4. Freeze Baked Crescents: Another option is to bake the crescents and then freeze them. Allow the baked crescents to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
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What other fillings can you use in crescent rolls?

Crescent rolls are incredibly versatile and can be filled with a wide variety of ingredients to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are some delicious alternative fillings to try:

  1. Cheese and Pepperoni: For a pizza-inspired twist, fill crescent rolls with mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices. Add a little marinara sauce for extra flavor.
  2. Ham and Cheese: Create a classic combination by filling crescent rolls with ham and cheddar cheese. This makes a great snack or lunch option.
  3. Spinach and Feta: For a vegetarian option, mix chopped spinach with feta cheese and a bit of garlic powder. This filling offers a delightful, savory flavor.
  4. Chicken and Buffalo Sauce: Shredded chicken mixed with buffalo sauce and a bit of cream cheese makes for a spicy and creamy filling. Perfect for game day snacks.
  5. Taco Meat and Cheese: Use seasoned ground beef and shredded cheese for a taco-flavored crescent. Serve with a side of salsa and sour cream.
  6. Broccoli and Cheddar: Combine chopped, steamed broccoli with shredded cheddar cheese for a veggie-packed filling that’s both tasty and nutritious.
  7. Nutella and Banana: For a sweet treat, spread Nutella on the crescent dough and add banana slices before rolling up. This makes for a quick and easy dessert.
  8. Apple Pie Filling: Fill crescents with canned apple pie filling and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Bake until golden brown for a mini apple pie experience.
  9. Cream Cheese and Jelly: Spread a layer of cream cheese and your favorite jelly or jam for a sweet and tangy filling. Perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Are Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents suitable for freezing?

Yes, Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are suitable for freezing, making them a convenient option for meal planning and easy entertaining.

Here’s how you can freeze them both before and after baking:

  1. Freezing Unbaked Crescents: To freeze unbaked Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents, assemble them as usual but do not bake. Place the assembled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other. Freeze until solid, which typically takes a few hours. Once they are frozen, transfer the crescents to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to one month. When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen crescents on a baking sheet and bake at the usual temperature, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  2. Freezing Baked Crescents: If you prefer to bake the crescents first and then freeze them, allow them to cool completely after baking. Place the cooled crescents in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for long-term storage. Baked crescents can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. To reheat, place the frozen crescents in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the texture may be slightly softer than when reheated in the oven.
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How can you make a healthier version of Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents?

Making a healthier version of Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents involves a few simple substitutions and adjustments to reduce calories, fat, and sodium while still maintaining delicious flavor. Here are some tips to create a lighter, healthier version of this popular appetizer:

  1. Choose Leaner Sausage: Opt for lean ground sausage or turkey sausage instead of traditional pork sausage. Turkey sausage has less fat and fewer calories but still provides a savory flavor. Look for versions with no added preservatives or nitrates for an even healthier option.
  2. Use Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese: Substitute regular cream cheese with reduced-fat or light cream cheese. This swap reduces the overall fat content without compromising on the creamy texture and taste. Neufchâtel cheese, which is a lower-fat alternative to cream cheese, is another good option.
  3. Whole Wheat Crescent Rolls: If available, use whole wheat crescent rolls instead of the regular ones. Whole wheat options provide more fiber and nutrients, making the crescents more wholesome.
  4. Add Vegetables: Incorporating finely chopped vegetables into the sausage mixture can boost the nutritional value of the crescents. Additions like bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms not only add vitamins and minerals but also enhance the flavor and texture of the filling.
  5. Reduce Sodium: Choose low-sodium sausage and cream cheese to reduce the sodium content. Additionally, you can season the filling with herbs and spices instead of relying on salt to add flavor.
  6. Portion Control: Make mini crescent rolls by cutting the dough into smaller triangles. This allows for smaller, bite-sized portions, which can help with portion control and calorie intake.

By making these simple changes, you can enjoy a healthier version of Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents that is still satisfying and delicious. This way, you can indulge in this tasty treat without the guilt, making it a perfect addition to any balanced diet.