Savory Sausage and Cheese Crescents: A Delicious Comfort Treat
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of these Savory Sausage and Cheese Crescents. Perfect for a quick breakfast, a tasty snack, or a flavorful appetizer, these crescents are easy to make and hard to resist. With a creamy, cheesy filling packed with savory sausage and a hint of green onion, wrapped in a golden, flaky crescent roll, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients Overview
Ground Sausage (1 lb)
- Provides a rich, savory base for the filling. Opt for your favorite variety, whether it’s mild, spicy, or flavored with herbs.
Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened)
- Adds a creamy texture and a slight tanginess that balances the savory sausage.
Refrigerated Crescent Rolls (2 cans, 8 oz each)
- Convenient and versatile, these rolls bake up flaky and golden, encasing the delicious filling.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup)
- Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor that complements the cream cheese and sausage.
Green Onions (2, thinly sliced, optional)
- Offer a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens up the rich filling.
Salt and Black Pepper
- Season to taste, enhancing all the flavors in the filling.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparation:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Cook the Sausage: 2. Brown the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat and let the sausage cool slightly.
Prepare the Filling: 3. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
Assemble the Crescents: 4. Unroll the Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. 5. Add Filling: Place a portion of the sausage cream cheese mixture on the wide end of each triangle. 6. Roll Up: Roll up the crescent rolls, starting from the wide end, and tuck in the sides to enclose the filling.
Bake to Perfection: 7. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the filled crescents on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. 8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy: 9. Cool and Serve: Remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these Savory Sausage and Cheese Crescents as a quick breakfast, a delicious snack, or a flavorful appetizer.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the baked crescents in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: For a quicker option, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, though this may result in a softer texture.
Helpful Tips for Enhancing the Recipe
Use Quality Sausage: The flavor of the sausage greatly impacts the final taste, so choose a high-quality sausage that you love.
Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
Customize the Cheese: Try different types of shredded cheese like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Add Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can add extra flavor to the filling.
Extra Spice: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the filling.
Garlic Flavor: Mix in a bit of garlic powder or fresh minced garlic for a savory depth of flavor.
Keep Dough Cold: Work quickly with the crescent roll dough and keep it cold to ensure it bakes up flaky.
Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the crescents with an egg wash (1 beaten egg with 1 tbsp of water) before baking for a glossy finish.
Cheese Topping: Sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top of the crescents before baking for a cheesy crust.
Experiment with Fillings: Try adding other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Serve with Dips: Pair the crescents with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard for dipping.
Watch the Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the crescents towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
Popular Questions and Answers
Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can substitute the cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack.
Can these be made ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Prepare and assemble the crescents, then refrigerate or freeze before baking.
What can I serve with these crescents?
- These are great with a side salad, soup, or a variety of dips like marinara or ranch.
Can I make these vegetarian?
- Yes, use a vegetarian sausage or replace the sausage with sautéed vegetables.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
- Ensure you roll the dough tightly and tuck in the sides well to enclose the filling completely.
Can I use homemade crescent dough?
- Yes, homemade dough can be used for a more rustic flavor and texture.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
- Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables, herbs, or even different types of meats.
How long do these last?
- They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
- You can use a lightly greased baking sheet instead.
Can I make smaller or larger crescents?
- Yes, you can adjust the size by cutting the dough into smaller or larger triangles.
Secrets for Achieving Culinary Perfection
Perfect Filling Consistency: Ensure the sausage is well-drained to avoid a greasy filling.
Even Distribution: Spread the filling evenly on each crescent triangle for consistent bites.
Firm Rolling: Roll the crescents tightly but gently to keep the filling inside.
Proper Spacing: Space the crescents well on the baking sheet to allow for even baking.
Golden Brown Finish: Bake until the crescents are just golden brown to avoid overcooking.
Taste Test Seasoning: Adjust salt and pepper to taste before filling the crescents.
Chilled Dough Handling: Keep crescent dough chilled to make it easier to handle and roll.
Pre-Cooked Ingredients: Ensure all filling ingredients are pre-cooked or softened for even cooking.
Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a pinch of Italian seasoning to the filling.
Serve Warm: These crescents are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven.
With these tips and tricks, your Savory Sausage and Cheese Crescents will be a delightful, crowd-pleasing treat every time. Enjoy the process of making them and savor the delicious results
