Sausage Crescent Rolls – Easy & Delicious Appetizer Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about warm, flaky pastry wrapped around a rich, creamy filling. Enter Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls – a delectable, crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for everything from cozy family gatherings to game-day celebrations. The combination of savory sausage, luscious cream cheese, and the slight kick of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies all rolled up in buttery, golden crescent rolls is nothing short of addictive.

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and sheer deliciousness. It’s one of those dishes you can whip up on a busy weeknight when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. Plus, it’s an absolute hit when you need to bring something impressive to a party but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, even the most novice of cooks can make these rolls with confidence.

The best part? This recipe is versatile and highly customizable. You can play around with the herbs or even add extra spices to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a subtle, creamy flavor profile or something with a bit of heat, this recipe has you covered. And let’s not forget how kid-friendly it is. These little rolls are like handheld bundles of joy that even picky eaters will devour without hesitation.

What really sold me on this recipe was how it quickly became a staple at our family gatherings. The first time I made these sausage cream cheese crescent rolls, they vanished within minutes. People were practically fighting over the last one. From then on, I knew this recipe was here to stay. So, if you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and unbelievably easy to make, this is the one. Let’s dive into why you’re going to love this recipe just as much as I do.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls recipe is one of those rare dishes that ticks all the right boxes: easy to make, packed with flavor, and universally loved. If you’re still not convinced, let me break down exactly why you’re going to fall in love with this recipe.

• First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to nail this recipe. All you need are a handful of basic ingredients and about half an hour of your time. The process is so straightforward that even beginners can make these rolls look and taste amazing. And the smell that fills your kitchen while they bake? Absolutely irresistible.
• Secondly, this recipe is pure comfort food. The combination of creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy filling encased in a golden, buttery crescent roll is a match made in heaven. It’s the kind of snack that feels like a warm hug, perfect for cozy nights in or social gatherings where you want to impress without breaking a sweat.
• Another reason you’ll love this recipe is its versatility. While the classic combination of sausage, cream cheese, and Rotel is fantastic, you can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste buds. Want more heat? Add some chopped jalapeños. Prefer a milder version? Swap the Rotel for regular diced tomatoes. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating different herbs and spices for a unique twist.
• Perhaps one of the biggest selling points of this recipe is how crowd-pleasing it is. Whether you’re serving a bunch of hungry kids or adults with sophisticated palates, these crescent rolls are always a hit. They’re the perfect appetizer, party snack, or even a quick breakfast on the go.

Lastly, they store and reheat beautifully. This means you can easily make a batch ahead of time and simply warm them up when you’re ready to serve. Talk about convenience.

Health Benefits

While Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are undoubtedly indulgent, there are some benefits worth noting. With a few ingredient swaps, you can even make this recipe a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. Let’s take a closer look at some of the potential health benefits.

• Sausage, when used in moderation, can be a good source of protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair, energy, and overall bodily functions. Opting for high-quality sausage, such as turkey sausage or chicken sausage, can reduce the fat content while still delivering that delicious, savory flavor.
• Cream cheese, although rich, does offer some nutritional value. It contains essential vitamins like Vitamin A, which is important for vision, immune function, and cell growth. Additionally, cream cheese provides a decent amount of fat, which helps keep you satiated and provides energy.
• Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies contribute a bit of nutritional value, particularly in the form of vitamins C and A. Tomatoes are also a good source of antioxidants like lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. The chilies in Rotel add a slight kick, which can boost metabolism and enhance digestion.
• When it comes to herbs like parsley and cilantro, these not only enhance flavor but also add beneficial nutrients. Parsley is rich in vitamins C and K, both of which are important for immune function and bone health. Cilantro is known for its detoxifying properties and may help with digestion.
• If you’re looking to make this recipe healthier, you can easily make some substitutions. For instance, using low-fat cream cheese will significantly reduce the calorie and fat content. Switching to whole grain crescent rolls or even making your own dough from scratch can add more fiber to the dish. And if you’re looking to reduce sodium, choose low-sodium sausage and Rotel.

While these crescent rolls aren’t exactly a health food, they do provide protein, vitamins, and antioxidants. Plus, with a few mindful adjustments, you can enjoy this comforting dish guilt-free.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is how quickly it comes together. From start to finish, you’ll have a tray of piping-hot, delicious crescent rolls ready to serve in less than 40 minutes. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the preparation time, servings, and nutritional information you can expect from this recipe.

Preparation Time:

• Prepping the filling and rolls: 15 minutes
• Baking time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Servings: This recipe makes approximately 32 mini crescent rolls, which is perfect for serving a crowd. Depending on your event, this amount can serve about 8 to 10 people as an appetizer.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 2 rolls):

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 420mg
• Sugar: 2g

Keep in mind that the nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the type of sausage, cream cheese, and crescent rolls you use. Opting for healthier alternatives like turkey sausage or low-fat cream cheese can significantly reduce the overall calorie and fat content.

Now that you’ve got a better idea of what you’re working with, let’s get into the heart of this recipe – the ingredients and how to bring it all together.

Ingredients List

The beauty of Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls lies in the simplicity of its ingredients. Everything you need is easy to find and affordable, making this recipe both convenient and budget-friendly. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb plain sausage (cooked and crumbled): This provides the savory, meaty base of your filling. You can use pork, turkey, or chicken sausage depending on your preference. For a healthier option, go with turkey or chicken sausage which are lower in fat but still rich in flavor.
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened): The creamy element that binds everything together. Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easier mixing. You can use regular, low-fat, or even dairy-free cream cheese if desired.
• 10 oz can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained well): Adds a wonderful burst of flavor and a hint of spice. If you’re not a fan of heat, you can opt for the mild version of Rotel or even replace it with plain diced tomatoes.
• 2 tbsp parsley (finely chopped, optional): Adds freshness and a hint of earthiness to the filling. You can use fresh or dried parsley, but fresh will give you the best flavor.
• 1-2 tbsp cilantro (finely chopped, optional): If you enjoy the bold, citrusy flavor of cilantro, don’t skip this. However, if you’re not a fan, feel free to leave it out or replace it with more parsley.
• 2 tubes of crescent rolls (each triangle cut in half lengthwise): The star of the show. These pre-made rolls save you time and effort while delivering that golden, flaky crust everyone loves.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions:

• Cheese Lovers: Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese to the filling for an extra cheesy twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with crumbled, seasoned tofu or a plant-based sausage alternative.
• Spicy Version: Include chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough if available.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the step-by-step cooking instructions to make this irresistible treat.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls is delightfully straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of golden, flavorful rolls in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure that your crescent rolls turn out beautifully golden and perfectly cooked.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and crumbled sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies.
• If you’re using herbs, add the chopped parsley and cilantro at this point.
• Mix all the ingredients until they’re well incorporated. The cream cheese should coat the sausage evenly, and the tomatoes should be nicely distributed throughout the mixture.
• Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes a pinch of salt and pepper can enhance the flavors even more.

Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Rolls

• Unroll both tubes of crescent roll dough and carefully separate the triangles.
• Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut each triangle in half lengthwise to create long, skinny triangles. This will give you twice as many rolls to work with and make them the perfect bite-sized appetizer.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Take one of the skinny triangles and place a small scoop (about 1 to 1.5 teaspoons) of the sausage and cream cheese mixture at the wide end of the triangle.
• Roll up the crescent roll starting from the wide end, rolling toward the narrow tip. Make sure the end is tucked under to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
• Place each roll on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between them to allow for expansion as they bake.
• Continue assembling the remaining rolls until you’ve used up all the dough and filling.

Step 5: Bake the Crescent Rolls

• Once all the rolls are assembled, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
• Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
• Keep an eye on them as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary slightly. You want them to be beautifully golden and flaky but not overdone.

Step 6: Let the Rolls Cool and Serve

• Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving.
• The filling will be very hot right out of the oven, so allowing them to cool slightly will make them much easier to handle and enjoy.
• Serve warm and watch them disappear!

Step 7: Optional Garnishing and Variations

• If you want to get fancy, you can sprinkle some extra parsley or cilantro over the top before serving.
• For an added touch, serve the rolls with a side of ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or marinara sauce for dipping.

That’s it! In less than half an hour, you’ve made a batch of delicious, satisfying rolls that are bound to be a hit wherever you serve them. Now, let’s talk about how to best present and serve these beauties.

How to Serve

Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. They work equally well as a standalone appetizer or part of a larger spread. Here are some of the best ways to serve them:

• Appetizer Platter: Arrange the rolls on a large serving platter with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or even a cool sour cream dip. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
• Breakfast or Brunch Addition: Pair these rolls with scrambled eggs, fruit salad, or a simple green salad to make a complete meal.
• Party Snack: These rolls are perfect for game days, potlucks, or casual get-togethers. Serve them straight from the oven or keep them warm in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting.
• Main Course Pairing: Serve them alongside hearty soups or stews for a comforting dinner.
• Kids’ Lunch Box Treat: Let the rolls cool completely and pack them in lunch boxes for a fun and tasty treat.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these rolls are guaranteed to be a hit. But to elevate your serving experience even more, let’s discuss some pairing suggestions to complement their deliciousness.

Pairing Suggestions

While Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are delightful on their own, pairing them with the right dishes and drinks can enhance their flavor even more. Here are some pairing ideas to make your serving experience even better:

Savory Pairings:

• Hearty Soups: These rolls pair beautifully with creamy soups like broccoli cheddar, tomato basil, or even chicken and wild rice soup. The creaminess of the rolls complements the warmth and richness of the soups.
• Salads: Balance the richness of the rolls with a fresh, crisp salad. A simple arugula or spinach salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette provides the perfect refreshing contrast.
• Breakfast Spread: Serve these rolls alongside scrambled eggs, hash browns, or even a veggie frittata for a satisfying breakfast or brunch experience.

Dips and Sauces:

• Ranch Dressing: The cool, herby flavor of ranch pairs wonderfully with the warm, savory rolls.
• Spicy Mustard: If you want to add a bit of tanginess, a honey mustard or spicy Dijon mustard makes for a fantastic dipping option.
• Marinara Sauce: For an Italian-inspired twist, serve the rolls with a rich, slightly spicy marinara sauce.

Drink Pairings:

• Coffee or Tea: If you’re serving these for breakfast or brunch, coffee or tea pairs well with their creamy and savory flavor profile.
• Sparkling Water or Lemonade: When serving these rolls as appetizers, refreshing drinks like sparkling water with lime or a chilled glass of lemonade can help cut through the richness.
• Creamy Smoothies: For a fun brunch twist, try pairing the rolls with a tropical fruit smoothie made from mango, banana, and coconut milk.

Dessert Pairings:

• If you’re making these rolls as part of a larger meal, consider serving them with a light dessert like fruit salad, mini cheesecakes, or chocolate-dipped strawberries for a well-rounded spread.

Now that you’ve got your pairing options sorted, let’s talk about the best ways to store, freeze, and reheat these Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the great things about this recipe is how well it stores and reheats. Whether you have leftovers or want to make them ahead of time, these tips will ensure your rolls remain just as delicious as when they were freshly baked.

Storing Leftovers:

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place the rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When ready to eat, reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the rolls soggy.

Freezing the Rolls:

• These crescent rolls freeze beautifully, making them an excellent make-ahead option.
• To freeze, place the cooled rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
• Transfer the frozen rolls to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• For best results, label the bag with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Reheating Instructions:

• From the Refrigerator: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and warm for 5-8 minutes, or until heated through.
• From the Freezer: Reheat directly from frozen by baking at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes.
• Using an Air Fryer: Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This method is excellent for retaining crispiness.

Now, let’s dive into the common mistakes to avoid when making these Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls, so you can get perfect results every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes that can prevent your rolls from turning out perfectly. Here’s what to watch out for:

Using Too Much Filling:

• It can be tempting to overload your rolls with filling, but too much will cause the crescent rolls to burst open and become messy. Stick to about 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of filling per roll for best results.

Not Draining the Rotel Properly:

• Failing to drain the Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies thoroughly can result in a watery filling that soaks through the dough. Make sure to press out as much liquid as possible before mixing it into the filling.

Over-Baking:

• Crescent rolls bake quickly, so keep an eye on them. Over-baking can cause them to dry out. Start checking them at around the 12-minute mark to prevent them from getting too dark.

Not Sealing the Edges:

• When rolling the crescent dough, make sure to tuck the end of the roll underneath and press gently to seal. This helps prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

Skipping the Parchment Paper:

• Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper ensures easy cleanup and prevents the rolls from sticking. If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly greasing the baking sheet works as well.

Now that you know what to avoid, let’s move on to some expert tips that will help you nail this recipe every single time.

Pro Tips

Follow these tips to ensure your Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls turn out perfect every time:

Pre-Cook Your Sausage:

• Make sure your sausage is fully cooked and crumbled before mixing it with the cream cheese and Rotel. This ensures the filling is flavorful and cooked through.

Soften Your Cream Cheese:

• Using softened cream cheese makes it much easier to mix with the sausage and tomatoes. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing, or microwave it for 10 seconds if you’re in a hurry.

Don’t Overwork the Dough:

• Handle the crescent dough as little as possible to keep it light and flaky. Overworking the dough can result in tough rolls.

Customize the Filling:

• Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling like shredded cheese, chopped jalapeños, or even cooked mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

Brush with Butter:

• For a golden, glossy finish, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter before baking. You can also sprinkle them with garlic powder or parmesan cheese for an added touch.

Now that you’ve got all the tips and tricks, let’s move on to some of the most frequently asked questions about this recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Whenever you’re trying a new recipe, questions are bound to pop up. To make sure you have the smoothest experience possible, here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about making Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls.

Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! To prepare them in advance, assemble the rolls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Instead of baking them right away, cover the sheet tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and proceed as instructed.

Can I Freeze the Rolls Before Baking?
Definitely. You can assemble the rolls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When baking from frozen, add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.

Can I Use Low-Fat or Dairy-Free Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese works well and reduces the overall calorie and fat content of the recipe. If you’re dairy-free, opt for a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Just ensure it’s softened to make mixing easier.

What Type of Sausage Works Best?
This recipe is incredibly flexible. While pork sausage is traditional, you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage to suit your dietary needs. For extra flavor, consider using a spicy sausage if you like heat.

What Should I Do if the Dough Tears While Rolling?
If the crescent roll dough tears, don’t panic. Simply press the torn area back together and continue rolling. If it’s a large tear, pinch the dough to seal it or use a small piece of dough to patch it up.

How Can I Prevent the Filling from Leaking Out?
To minimize leaking, avoid overstuffing the rolls and ensure the end of each roll is tucked underneath before baking. Sealing the edges by gently pressing them can also help keep the filling inside.

Can I Use Homemade Crescent Roll Dough?
Yes, if you prefer to make your own dough from scratch, go for it! Just roll out the dough and cut it into similar-sized triangles before proceeding with the filling and rolling.

Why Are My Rolls Soggy Instead of Flaky?
If your rolls are turning out soggy, it’s likely because the filling is too wet. Make sure to drain the Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies thoroughly. Additionally, avoid using overly watery ingredients in the filling.

Can I Make a Vegetarian Version of This Recipe?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative or seasoned, crumbled tofu. The rest of the recipe can remain the same.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Rolls?
For best results, reheat leftover rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes. This keeps them crisp and warm without making them soggy. Avoid using the microwave unless you’re in a hurry.

Hopefully, these answers cover most of your concerns. But if you’re still wondering about something, feel free to ask. Now, let’s wrap things up and get you ready to make your own batch of delicious Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls.

Conclusion & Call to Action

By now, you can probably tell why Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are such a crowd-pleaser. They’re simple, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, a breakfast treat, or a snack for a cozy movie night, they never disappoint.

What makes this recipe so special is how easy it is to adapt. From swapping in different meats or cheeses to adding extra spices for a little heat, the possibilities are almost limitless. And the fact that you can make them ahead of time or even freeze them for later use is a total game-changer.

The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, tangy tomatoes, and buttery crescent rolls is pure comfort wrapped up in a golden, flaky pastry. It’s the kind of dish that everyone asks for the recipe after just one bite. And I have a feeling you’re about to make this recipe a staple in your household just like I did.

Ready to get started? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and give this recipe a try. I can’t wait to hear how much you love them. And if you’ve made some fun tweaks of your own, share your creative variations!

I’d love to see your delicious creations, so don’t forget to leave a comment below with your thoughts or even tag me on social media. Happy cooking!

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