Savory Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents: A Flavorful Appetizer Delight

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When it comes to versatile appetizers that are sure to please a crowd, Savory Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents stand out as a top choice. This delightful dish combines the hearty flavors of breakfast sausage with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family meal, or simply looking for a quick snack, these crescents are the perfect addition to any occasion.

The appeal of this recipe lies not only in its delicious flavor profile but also in its simplicity. The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and fragrant spices creates a mouthwatering treat that is both satisfying and comforting. Each bite is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making it a hit with both adults and kids alike. Best of all, the preparation is straightforward, making it accessible for novice cooks while still allowing experienced chefs to add their personal flair.

Understanding the Ingredients

To create the perfect Savory Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents, understanding the ingredients is crucial. Each component plays a significant role in the overall flavor and texture of the dish, so let’s dive deeper into what you’ll need:

Breakfast Sausage

At the heart of this recipe is breakfast sausage, which adds a robust flavor and a satisfying bite. There are various types available, including mild, spicy, and maple-flavored options. When selecting your sausage, consider the flavor profile you wish to achieve. For instance, spicy sausage adds a kick, while maple sausage lends a subtle sweetness that complements the cream cheese beautifully. Choosing high-quality sausage will enhance the overall taste of your crescents.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is essential in this recipe, contributing to the rich and creamy filling that binds the other ingredients together. It not only adds a luscious texture but also balances the savory notes of the sausage. For best results, use full-fat cream cheese, as it melts better and provides a richer flavor. Soften the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth and even consistency in the filling.

Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, and Italian Seasoning

These spices are key to enhancing the overall taste of the crescents. Garlic powder and onion powder bring depth and aroma, infusing the filling with savory notes that elevate the sausage and cream cheese. Italian seasoning, typically a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, adds a hint of earthiness and warmth. Together, these spices create a harmonious flavor profile that ties all the ingredients together.

Crescent Roll Dough

The crescent roll dough is the outer layer that encases the savory filling, providing a flaky and buttery texture. It acts as a perfect backdrop for the robust flavors inside. You can find refrigerated crescent roll dough in most grocery stores, making it an easy and convenient choice. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using puff pastry or biscuit dough for a different texture. However, the classic crescent roll provides the perfect balance of flakiness and sturdiness for this dish.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese

In addition to cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese adds another layer of flavor and richness to the filling. Its sharpness complements the sausage and cream cheese, while its melting properties create a gooey, delicious texture. Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, such as pepper jack for a bit of heat or mozzarella for a milder taste, but sharp cheddar remains a popular choice for its bold flavor.

Fresh Parsley

Lastly, fresh parsley not only garnishes the dish but also adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Chopped parsley can be sprinkled on top of the baked crescents or mixed into the filling for added flavor. Its bright, herbaceous notes contrast beautifully with the richness of the sausage and cream cheese, making it a perfect finishing touch.

Preparation Steps for Perfect Crescents

Now that you have a better understanding of the ingredients, it’s time to move on to the preparation steps that will ensure your Savory Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents turn out perfectly every time.

Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet

Before you start cooking, it’s important to prepare your oven and baking sheet properly. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), which is the ideal temperature for baking the crescents to golden perfection. Proper oven temperature ensures even cooking and a beautifully browned exterior.

When it comes to the baking sheet, line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Parchment paper provides a non-stick surface that allows the crescents to bake evenly without any risk of sticking to the pan. If you don’t have parchment paper, a lightly greased baking sheet will work, but be prepared to carefully remove the crescents after baking.

Cooking the Sausage

The next step involves cooking the sausage. Remove the sausage from its casing if it comes in links, and place it in a skillet over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart, ensuring even cooking. As the sausage cooks, pay attention to achieve a nice brown color, which enhances the flavor through the Maillard reaction.

For optimum flavor development, allow the sausage to brown without stirring too frequently, letting it sit for a minute or two between stirs. This technique will help create a rich, caramelized crust.

As the sausage cooks, manage the grease that may accumulate in the pan. If there is excess grease, you can drain some off, but retain a small amount for flavor. The sausage is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) and is no longer pink in the center.

Combining the Filling

Once the sausage is cooked and browned, transfer it to a mixing bowl and let it cool slightly. While it cools, you can prepare the filling by adding the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl.

Mix all the ingredients together until well combined, ensuring that the cream cheese is fully integrated with the sausage mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a consistent flavor throughout the crescents. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed, perhaps adding a bit of salt or pepper to enhance the flavors further.

Now that you have your filling prepared, you’re ready to assemble your crescents, but we’ll cover that in the next section. Stay tuned for the final steps to create these irresistible Savory Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents that are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds!

To create the perfect <strong>Savory Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents</strong>, understanding the ingredients is crucial. Each component plays a significant role in the overall flavor and texture of the dish, so let’s dive deeper into what you’ll need:” /></p>
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<h3>The Importance of Temperature in Mixing Cream Cheese with Sausage</h3>
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<p>When preparing your savory sausage cream cheese crescents, achieving the right texture and flavor balance starts with the cream cheese. The temperature of your cream cheese is crucial; it should be at room temperature for optimal mixing. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps and uneven distribution in your filling, making it challenging to spread evenly. Room temperature cream cheese blends smoothly with the sausage, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.</p>
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<p>To expedite the softening process, you can cut the cream cheese into smaller cubes. This increases the surface area and reduces the time it takes for the cheese to come to room temperature. If you’re short on time, you can also microwave it for about 10-15 seconds, but be cautious not to melt it.</p>
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<h3>Techniques for Ensuring Even Distribution of Flavors and Textures</h3>
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<p>For the best results, it’s essential to combine the sausage and cream cheese thoroughly. Start by browning the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, then allow it to cool slightly. This step is important; adding hot sausage directly into cream cheese can lead to a runny filling.</p>
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<p>Once the sausage has cooled, add it to the softened cream cheese. Using a spatula or a fork, mix them together until the sausage is evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese. If you want to enhance the flavor profile, consider adding chopped herbs or spices to the mixture, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of cayenne for a kick.</p>
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<h3>Assembling the Crescents</h3>
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<p>Once your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the crescents. This is where the magic happens!</p>
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<h4>Step-by-Step Guide on How to Roll the Crescent Dough Efficiently</h4>
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<p>1. <strong>Prepare Your Work Surface</strong>: Start with a clean, flat surface. Lightly flour it to prevent the dough from sticking.</p>
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<p>2. <strong>Unroll the Crescent Dough</strong>: Take your tube of crescent dough and carefully unroll it onto the prepared surface. You should see a large, rectangular sheet with perforations for cutting individual triangles.</p>
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<p>3. <strong>Cut the Dough</strong>: If you are using traditional crescent dough, gently pinch the perforations to seal them. For mini crescents, you can cut the dough into smaller triangles.</p>
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<p>4. <strong>Add the Filling</strong>: Place a generous tablespoon of the sausage and cream cheese mixture at the wide end of each triangle. Avoid overstuffing, as this can make rolling difficult.</p>
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<p>5. <strong>Roll the Dough</strong>: Starting at the wide end, roll the dough tightly toward the pointed end. Ensure the filling stays inside by gently pressing the edges as you roll. The tighter the roll, the nicer the crescent will look once baked.</p>
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<p>6. <strong>Seal the Edges</strong>: Once rolled, tuck the pointed end underneath the crescent to create a nice shape. You can also pinch the edges to seal them further.</p>
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<h4>Tips for Minimizing Mess and Maximizing Filling</h4>
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<p>– <strong>Use a Cookie Scoop</strong>: A cookie scoop can help you measure out the filling accurately, ensuring each crescent is evenly filled.</p>
<p>– <strong>Keep It Cool</strong>: If the dough gets too warm while you’re assembling, return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes. Warm dough can be difficult to work with and may lose its shape.</p>
<p>– <strong>Practice Makes Perfect</strong>: Don’t worry if your first few crescents don’t look perfect! With practice, you will become more comfortable with rolling and shaping.</p>
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<h3>Baking Techniques for Optimal Results</h3>
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<p>With your savory sausage cream cheese crescents assembled, it’s time to bake!</p>
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<h4>Baking Time and Visual Cues for Doneness</h4>
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<p>Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Arrange the crescents on the baking sheet, leaving enough space between them to allow for expansion during baking.</p>
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<p>Bake the crescents for about 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown. Visual cues for doneness include a rich golden color and a slightly puffed appearance. If you notice they are browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil halfway through the baking time.</p>
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<h4>Optional Methods for Achieving a Golden Finish</h4>
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<p>For an extra touch of elegance, you can brush the tops of the crescents with an egg wash made from a beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water. This will give your crescents a beautiful, glossy finish. Alternatively, sprinkle some sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking to add extra flavor and texture.</p>
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<h3>Serving Ideas</h3>
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<p>These savory sausage cream cheese crescents make fantastic appetizers for various gatherings. Here are some serving suggestions to impress your guests:</p>
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<p>– <strong>As Appetizers</strong>: Serve them warm straight from the oven at parties, game days, or family gatherings. They are best enjoyed fresh but can also be reheated in the oven for a few minutes.</p>
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<p>– <strong>Pairing Ideas</strong>: Complement your crescents with dips or sauces. A tangy ranch dressing, spicy sriracha mayo, or even a creamy garlic dip can elevate the flavors. Consider serving a fresh salsa or guacamole on the side for a refreshing contrast.</p>
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<h3>Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations</h3>
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<p>Understanding the nutritional content of your savory sausage cream cheese crescents can help you make informed choices. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (assuming 1 crescent per serving):</p>
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<p>– <strong>Calories</strong>: Approximately 180</p>
<p>– <strong>Protein</strong>: 5g</p>
<p>– <strong>Fat</strong>: 12g</p>
<p>– <strong>Carbohydrates</strong>: 12g</p>
<p>– <strong>Fiber</strong>: 0g</p>
<p>– <strong>Sodium</strong>: 300mg</p>
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<h4>Discussion of Dietary Modifications</h4>
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<p>For those looking for lower-fat options, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese or turkey sausage in place of traditional pork sausage. This change maintains flavor while reducing calorie content.</p>
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<p>If you need a gluten-free alternative, look for gluten-free crescent dough available in grocery stores. Be sure to check for allergens, especially if serving to a crowd, as cream cheese and sausage can contain dairy, gluten, and other allergens.</p>
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<h3>Conclusion: Enjoying Savory Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents</h3>
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<p>Savory sausage cream cheese crescents are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. This recipe highlights the importance of temperature in achieving the perfect filling and provides step-by-step assembly instructions that minimize mess and maximize flavor.</p>
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<p>Whether you’re serving these crescents as a delightful appetizer at a party or enjoying them with family during a cozy gathering, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to experiment with different fillings or spices to tailor the recipe to your preferences.</p>
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<p>So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful experience of making and sharing these scrumptious crescents with family and friends!</p>
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To create the perfect Savory Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents, understanding the ingredients is crucial. Each component plays a significant role in the overall flavor and texture of the dish, so let’s dive deeper into what you’ll need:

Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

Indulge in these delightful Savory Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents! Perfect for an appetizer or a tasty snack, these flaky pastries are filled with a scrumptious mixture of breakfast sausage, creamy cheese, and savory spices. With a quick prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 30 minutes, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing treat in no time. Garnish with fresh parsley for that extra touch. Try them for your next gathering!

Ingredients
  

1 pound breakfast sausage

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Cooking spray (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If you prefer, you can lightly spray the baking sheet with cooking spray for easy cleanup.

    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

      Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until melted and fully combined with the sausage.

        Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir just until melted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

          Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles on your prepared baking sheet.

            At the wide end of each triangle, place a tablespoon of the sausage and cream cheese mixture. Carefully roll the dough over the filling, starting from the wide end and rolling to the tip to form a crescent shape.

              Once all crescents are assembled, place them on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each. Optionally, you can brush the tops with some melted butter or cooking spray for a golden finish.

                Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crescents are golden brown.

                  Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color!

                    Enjoy these savory sausage cream cheese crescents as a delicious appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress!

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 8-10 crescents

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