If you’re searching for a crowd-pleaser that combines savory sausage with rich cheddar cheese wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough, look no further than this Sausage and Cheddar Crescent Roll Pinwheels Recipe. These delightful pinwheels offer a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty sausage, all rolled up into bite-sized, golden brown treats. Whether you’re heading to a potluck, family gathering, or just craving a comforting snack, this recipe is a surefire way to impress and satisfy hungry appetites with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Sausage and Cheddar Crescent Roll Pinwheels Recipe lies in its simplicity. Using just a handful of basic ingredients, each component packs a punch — from the rich pork sausage adding robust flavor, to the creamy softened cream cheese giving a luscious texture, and the cheddar bringing that irresistible sharpness. And of course, the crescent rolls create the perfect golden, flaky exterior to tie it all together.
- 1 pound bulk pork sausage: Provides juicy, savory meatiness that’s the heart of this recipe.
- 2 (8-ounce) packages refrigerated crescent rolls: The buttery, flaky dough that wraps all the delicious fillings.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened: Adds creamy richness and helps bind the filling ingredients.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Sharp, melty cheese that wakes up every bite with perfect flavor.
How to Make Sausage and Cheddar Crescent Roll Pinwheels Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by cooking the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. As it browns and crumbles, it releases those mouthwatering savory aromas that set the stage for an irresistible filling. Make sure to drain any excess grease before setting it aside — this keeps your pinwheels nice and flavorful without being greasy.
Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough
Lay a sheet of wax paper on a flat surface and lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Unroll one package of crescent rolls onto the wax paper and pinch the perforations together to create a smooth, seamless sheet. This seamless dough will make rolling easier and prevent any filling from escaping.
Step 3: Spread and Layer the Filling
Evenly spread half of the softened cream cheese over the crescent roll sheet, leaving a half-inch border around the edges—this margin ensures the filling stays inside while baking. Next, sprinkle half of the cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cream cheese. The layering of creamy, meaty, and cheesy textures is what truly makes this Sausage and Cheddar Crescent Roll Pinwheels Recipe stand out.
Step 4: Roll Up the Dough
Using the wax paper to assist, carefully roll the dough lengthwise into a tight log, encasing all the delicious fillings. Tuck the edges in neatly and wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap to hold its shape. Repeat the steps with the remaining crescent rolls and fillings to create a second log.
Step 5: Chill Before Slicing
Place the wrapped logs in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This chilling step firms up the logs, which is essential for clean slicing and maintaining those beautiful spiral pinwheel shapes during baking.
Step 6: Slice and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the logs from the fridge and unwrap them. Using a sharp knife, slice the logs into half-inch thick pinwheels and arrange them evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the crescent roll dough is golden and crisp, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, allow your pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. This prevents burning your fingers and lets the flavors meld just a bit more — get ready for well-deserved compliments on these irresistible bites!
How to Serve Sausage and Cheddar Crescent Roll Pinwheels Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your pinwheels by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives on top right after baking. Not only do they add a pop of vibrant green color, but they also lend a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the cheese and sausage.
Side Dishes
These pinwheels pair wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides such as a simple garden salad or a tangy coleslaw. If you’re serving them for brunch or a casual party, consider offering small bowls of salsa, sour cream, or even honey mustard for dipping to add another layer of flavor and excitement.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching platter, arrange the pinwheels in a circular pattern with a small bowl of dip or marinara sauce in the center. You can also serve them stacked on a tiered stand for a stylish appetizer display that invites guests to grab and enjoy. Wrapping individual pinwheels with colorful toothpicks makes them perfect grab-and-go finger foods at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sausage and Cheddar Crescent Roll Pinwheels can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor and texture surprisingly well, making them an excellent make-ahead snack or a quick lunch option.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these pinwheels well in advance, slice the logs and place the pinwheels in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. This means you can enjoy this delicious recipe anytime with minimal effort.
Reheating
To reheat refrigerated or frozen pinwheels, warm them in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 8 to 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy on the outside. This method helps preserve the flaky texture and melty cheese, unlike microwaving which can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative that works well in this recipe. Keep in mind it may produce slightly less grease and have a milder flavor, so seasoning it a bit with your favorite spices can enhance the taste.
Do I have to use cream cheese, or are there substitutes?
Cream cheese adds a creamy texture and mild tang that complements the sausage and cheddar perfectly. You could try ricotta or mascarpone as alternatives, but keep the consistency similar to avoid sogginess or dryness in the filling.
Can these pinwheels be made gluten-free?
While traditional crescent rolls contain gluten, you can find gluten-free crescent dough options in some stores or prepare your own gluten-free dough. Be sure to check all ingredients, especially the sausage and cheese, for gluten content.
What if I want to add veggies to the filling?
Adding finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach can add a fresh crunch and extra nutrients. Just sauté the veggies before mixing them into the filling to avoid excess moisture in your pinwheels.
How do I keep the pinwheels from falling apart when rolling?
Pinching the crescent roll perforations to make a seamless dough sheet is key. Also, rolling tightly but gently, and chilling the log before slicing helps maintain shape and prevents the filling from oozing out during baking.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Cheddar Crescent Roll Pinwheels Recipe is one of those golden-ticket dishes that never fails to delight. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it transforms humble components into eye-catching, flavorful bites perfect for any occasion. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing these pinwheels as much as I do—they’re comfort food and party favorite all rolled into one!
Print
Sausage and Cheddar Crescent Roll Pinwheels Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make sausage pinwheels featuring seasoned pork sausage, creamy cheese, and flaky crescent roll dough. Perfect for parties, snacks, or appetizers, these pinwheels are baked to golden perfection and ideal for serving a crowd.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound bulk pork sausage
Dough and Filling
- 2 (8-ounce) packages refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Cook Sausage: Add the sausage to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until browned and crumbly, about 10 minutes. Drain the excess grease and set the sausage aside.
- Prepare Dough: Lay out a sheet of wax paper and spray it with cooking spray. Unroll one package of crescent rolls onto the wax paper. Pinch the perforations together to create a seamless sheet of dough.
- Assemble Filling: Spread half of the softened cream cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle half the cooked sausage and half the shredded cheddar over the cream cheese.
- Roll Dough: Using the wax paper to assist you, carefully roll the dough lengthwise into a log, encasing the filling tightly. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap.
- Repeat Assembly: Repeat the process with the remaining crescent rolls, cream cheese, sausage, and cheddar cheese to create a second log.
- Chill Logs: Refrigerate the wrapped logs for at least an hour or until they are firm enough to slice easily.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the logs from the refrigerator and unwrap them carefully.
- Slice Pinwheels: Using a sharp knife, cut the logs into 1/2-inch-thick slices and arrange them evenly on a baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the pinwheels in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to spread easily over the dough for even filling distribution.
- To prevent sticking, use wax paper or parchment paper both when rolling and placing the pinwheels on the baking sheet.
- These pinwheels can be made ahead of time and refrigerated; just slice and bake when ready to serve.
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs or spices like garlic powder or paprika to the sausage before cooking.
- Serve warm for best taste and texture.
