These sausage cream cheese crescent bites are super easy to make and oh-so-tasty! The flaky crescent dough wraps around a creamy filling, making them a perfect party snack.
Every time I make these, they disappear fast—my friends love them! You can serve them warm, and trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds. Who can resist that combo? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Breakfast Sausage: This ingredient brings rich, savory flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider turkey sausage or plant-based sausage. Both still pack a punch of flavor but with less fat.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is essential for that creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese. For a dairy-free version, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative.
Crescent Roll Dough: The crescent dough gives a flaky, buttery taste. If you can’t find it, puff pastry can work in a pinch, but the texture will be different. Biscuits could also be used for a denser bite.
Parmesan Cheese: Adding Parmesan boosts the flavor, but it’s optional. To substitute, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste, or omit it altogether if you prefer a simpler filling.
How Do I Ensure the Crescent Rolls Bake Perfectly?
Getting that golden-brown finish is key to delicious crescent bites! Here are some tips:
- Make sure the oven is fully preheated before baking your bites for even cooking.
- Don’t crowd the baking sheet. Leave space between each roll so the hot air can circulate.
- Brushing the tops with egg wash not only gives a beautiful color but also helps achieve that nice shine.
- If you want to be sure they’re cooked inside, you can check one by gently pulling it apart to see the filling.
Following these tips will help you create perfectly baked crescent bites that everyone will love!
How to Make Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick appetizer when you’re short on time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your crescent bites cook evenly and get that lovely golden color. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground breakfast sausage. Cook it until it’s nice and browned, breaking it apart into crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep it from being too greasy. Set it aside to cool for a couple of minutes.
3. Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with the softened cream cheese. Stir until the mixture is well blended and creamy. If you’re using garlic powder and Parmesan cheese, mix those in now for an extra flavor boost!
4. Roll Out the Crescent Dough
Now it’s time to work with the crescent roll dough. Unroll it from the package and separate it into triangles as instructed. These will be your little pockets of joy!
5. Fill the Dough
Take about one tablespoon of the sausage and cream cheese mixture and place it near the wide end of each crescent triangle. Be careful not to overfill, as they might burst open while baking!
6. Roll Them Up!
Starting from the wide end, carefully roll up the crescent dough around the filling, tucking it gently. Place each rolled bite seam side down onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Add the Egg Wash
To give your crescent bites a beautiful golden finish, brush the tops with the beaten egg. This step is simple but makes a world of difference!
8. Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll want them to be golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them so they don’t get too dark!
9. Cool and Serve
Once they’re done, take the bites out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. This will help them set up a bit more, making them easier to serve. Enjoy these warm, cheesy, savory bites as a delightful appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just cook it the same way as you would pork sausage, and it will work perfectly in this recipe.
Can I Make These Crescent Bites Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed veggies for a delicious vegetarian filling. Just make sure to adjust any seasoning based on the substitute you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or use the microwave for about 30-60 seconds until warmed through.
Can I Freeze These Crescent Bites?
Definitely! You can freeze the unbaked, filled crescent rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
