Description
Savory crescent rolls wrap juicy sausage in buttery, flaky pastry, creating a mouthwatering appetizer perfect for game day or casual gatherings. Crisp edges and golden-brown surfaces promise a delightful bite you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Protein:
- 1 pound fresh, ground spicy pork sausage
Dairy:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese
Pastry and Garnish:
- 16 ounces (454 grams) refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1 egg white, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350F (175C), positioning a rack in the center. Prepare an ungreased cookie sheet for the upcoming culinary creation.
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the pork sausage, stirring frequently until thoroughly browned. Drain excess fat to ensure a clean, non-greasy filling.
- While the sausage is still warm, incorporate cream cheese, stirring until completely melted and blended. Allow the mixture to cool slightly to prevent dough softening.
- Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough, combining two rectangles by pressing perforations together to create a smooth, unified surface.
- Distribute the sausage and cream cheese mixture evenly along the center of each rectangular dough section, forming a long, centered log.
- Fold the longer sides of the dough over the filling, completely encasing the mixture. Pinch edges firmly to seal, preventing any filling from escaping during baking.
- Position the filled logs seam-side down on the prepared cookie sheet for optimal presentation and stability.
- Whisk the egg white until lightly frothy, then delicately brush over the top of each log. Generously sprinkle poppy seeds across the surface for added texture and visual appeal.
- Bake for 20 minutes, monitoring until the pastry turns a rich, golden brown and achieves a perfectly flaky exterior.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. Slice each log into 1.5-inch portions, creating bite-sized pieces perfect for serving and sharing.
Notes
- Opt for lean sausage to reduce overall fat content and create a healthier version of this appetizer.
- Consider using gluten-free crescent roll dough for those with wheat sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.
- Prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, making meal prep more convenient and flexible for busy schedules.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16
- Calories: 202
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 382 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 24 mg