The scent of freshly baked pastries is a comfort like no other, and when they’re filled with savory sausage and smooth cream cheese, they become something truly irresistible. These baked sausage cream cheese crescents are the perfect blend of simplicity and heartwarming flavor. Growing up in the Midwest, these crescent rolls were a staple at family gatherings, especially for Sunday brunch or special holiday breakfasts. They were easy to make, with ingredients that were always stocked in the pantry, and they always brought everyone together at the table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a delicious, nostalgic treat that brings the comfort of home straight to your kitchen.
These crescents are not only versatile but also a crowd-pleaser. Serve them warm alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a hearty breakfast, or pair them with a comforting bowl of tomato soup and a green salad for lunch. They’re also perfect as an appetizer for your next gathering, complementing a cheese platter or pickles. The creamy filling and flaky exterior are bound to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork sausage
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth. If desired, fold in cheddar cheese.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
- Place a spoonful of the sausage mixture onto the wide end of each triangle and roll it up towards the narrow end, pinching the edges to seal.
- Place the crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Variations & Tips
For a spicier twist, use hot sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. Experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or pepper jack, to customize the flavor. Puff pastry can be used in place of crescent dough for a flakier texture. You could also add chopped bell peppers or green onions to the filling for extra flavor.
Nutritional Insights & Dietary Considerations
This dish combines the richness of sausage and cream cheese with the lightness of crescent dough, offering a satisfying and hearty bite. It’s a good source of protein from the sausage and cream cheese, while the crescent dough provides a comforting, buttery base. For those seeking a lower-fat version, swapping out the sausage for turkey sausage or using a reduced-fat cream cheese can make this dish lighter without compromising too much on flavor. Those following a gluten-free or dairy-free diet may want to explore gluten-free crescent rolls and dairy-free cheese alternatives to make this recipe fit their needs.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
If you tried these baked sausage cream cheese crescents, I’d love to hear what you think! Your feedback and comments inspire others to try new recipes, make adjustments, and find what works best for their tastes. Let’s keep the conversation going and share the love for delicious food!