Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

There’s something irresistibly delicious about flaky crescent rolls stuffed with savory sausage and creamy cheese, and Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just whipping up a quick family snack, these crescent rolls are guaranteed to be a hit.

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This recipe combines the richness of cooked ground sausage with the creaminess of softened cream cheese, all wrapped in a buttery, golden crescent roll. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s easy to prepare, quick to bake, and utterly satisfying to eat.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making these Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents, share some helpful tips for perfecting the recipe, and offer serving suggestions that will make this dish the star of your next gathering. We’ll also discuss why these crescents are such a beloved dish, particularly in the South, where hearty and flavorful snacks like these are always in high demand.

Why Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents Are a Southern Staple

1. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

One of the reasons Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are so popular is their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients—ground sausage, cream cheese, crescent roll dough, and optional cheddar cheese—this recipe comes together quickly, but the result is packed with rich and savory flavors.

The combination of ground sausage and cream cheese creates a filling that’s both creamy and slightly spicy, with the sausage adding texture and the cream cheese lending smoothness. When wrapped in buttery crescent rolls and baked to golden perfection, the flavor combination becomes even more irresistible.

2. Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing

Whether you’re making them for breakfast, brunch, a quick snack, or as an appetizer for a party, these crescent rolls fit the bill for any occasion. They’re also great for picky eaters or guests with varying tastes, as they’re simple but incredibly delicious. And because they’re made with crescent roll dough, they’re light and flaky while still being hearty and satisfying.

3. Perfect for Parties, Potlucks, and More

Because this recipe makes 16 crescents, it’s ideal for serving a group. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or bringing a dish to a potluck, these crescent rolls will be a hit. You can also easily double or triple the recipe if you’re feeding a larger crowd.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

Let’s dive into the recipe and break it down step by step, so you can make these delicious crescents with ease. This recipe is incredibly forgiving and easy to follow, so whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, you’ll have no trouble whipping up a batch of these tasty treats.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

• 1 lb ground sausage
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

These ingredients are easy to find in any grocery store, and many of them may already be in your pantry or refrigerator. The optional cheddar cheese adds an extra layer of richness, but if you prefer to keep it simple, the recipe works beautifully without it.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the crescents bake evenly and come out golden brown and flaky.

2. Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. This step is crucial to ensure that the sausage mixture is evenly distributed throughout the crescent rolls.

Once the sausage is cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet. This helps to avoid soggy crescents and keeps the filling from being too greasy.

3. Mix with Cream Cheese

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with the softened cream cheese. Stir the mixture until it’s well mixed and smooth. The cream cheese should melt slightly from the warmth of the sausage, making the filling creamy and easy to spread.

If you’re adding shredded cheddar cheese, this is the time to fold it into the mixture. The cheddar will melt into the sausage and cream cheese, adding extra flavor and richness to the filling.

4. Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough

Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles. Crescent roll dough is typically pre-perforated, making this step easy and quick.

5. Fill the Crescents

Place a generous tablespoon of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent roll triangle. Don’t skimp on the filling—you want each bite to be packed with that creamy, savory goodness.

Once filled, roll up the dough, starting at the wide end, and tuck the ends under slightly to seal in the filling. Place the crescents on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for expansion as they bake.

6. Bake

Bake the crescent rolls in your preheated oven for 11-13 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and puffed up. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them as they bake. You’re looking for a deep golden color and a crispy exterior.

7. Serve

Once the crescents are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Serve them warm for the best taste and texture.

Tips for Making the Best Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

1. Use High-Quality Sausage

The quality of the sausage you use will make a big difference in the final flavor of the dish. Opt for a good-quality ground sausage, whether it’s pork, turkey, or a spicy sausage like andouille for extra kick. You can also choose between mild or spicy sausage, depending on your flavor preference.

2. Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese

The cream cheese is what makes these crescents so creamy and rich, so be sure to use a high-quality cream cheese and allow it to soften at room temperature before mixing. This will ensure that it blends smoothly with the cooked sausage.

3. Add Cheddar for Extra Flavor

While the shredded cheddar cheese is optional, it’s a great way to add more depth of flavor to the filling. The cheddar melts beautifully into the sausage and cream cheese mixture, creating a cheesy, gooey center that contrasts with the crispy exterior of the crescent rolls.

4. Make Them Ahead of Time

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it holds up when made ahead. You can assemble the crescents and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them a great option for entertaining or meal prep. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

5. Freeze for Later

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can freeze the baked crescents for up to 2 months. Simply reheat them in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through for a quick and easy snack or appetizer.

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Serving Suggestions

These Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are versatile enough to be served for any meal or occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to help you enjoy them to the fullest:

1. As a Party Appetizer

These crescent rolls are perfect for serving at parties or gatherings. Arrange them on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mustard, or barbecue sauce for an easy and crowd-pleasing appetizer.

2. For Breakfast or Brunch

Since they feature sausage and cheese, these crescents are a fantastic option for breakfast or brunch. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs, hash browns, and fresh fruit for a complete morning meal.

3. With Soup or Salad

For a lighter meal, pair the crescent rolls with a hearty soup like tomato basil or potato leek, or serve them with a fresh green salad for a balanced and satisfying lunch.

4. Game Day Snack

These crescents make an excellent game day snack, especially when served with spicy dipping sauces or alongside other finger foods like chicken wings, nachos, or potato skins. They’re portable, mess-free, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for munching while cheering on your favorite team.

Why Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents Deserve a Spot on Your Menu

Whether you’re preparing a snack for your family, entertaining guests, or looking for a quick and easy breakfast idea, Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are a go-to recipe that’s sure to impress. With their flaky, golden exterior and creamy, savory filling, they offer the perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite.

What makes this recipe even more appealing is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling by adding different cheeses, spices, or even vegetables like diced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick. Plus, the convenience of using refrigerated crescent roll dough means these crescents come together quickly without the need for homemade pastry.

So, the next time you’re in need of a quick and delicious snack or appetizer, give these Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents a try. With their rich flavors and