Sausage Pinwheels

These Sausage Pinwheels are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines savory sausage and creamy cheese wrapped in a flaky crescent roll crust. Perfect for any occasion—be it parties, game days, or family gatherings—these pinwheels are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious. With just four simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these tasty treats that will leave your guests asking for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These pinwheels come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their irresistible flavors, they appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the filling by adding your favorite spices or vegetables.
• Easy to Serve: Their bite-sized nature makes them a fantastic finger food for parties and events.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the logs in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes preparing your sausage pinwheels even easier. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Wax paper
• Plastic wrap
• Sharp knife
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the sausage, helping to achieve that perfectly browned texture.
• Wax paper: This makes rolling the dough easier without sticking, allowing for a clean process.
• Plastic wrap: Keeping the log tightly wrapped helps maintain shape while chilling.

Ingredients

For the Sausage Filling

• 1 pound bulk pork sausage

For the Dough

• 2 (8-ounce) packages refrigerated crescent rolls

For the Cheese Filling

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

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How to Make Sausage Pinwheels

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbly, about 10 minutes. Drain excess grease and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Lay out a sheet of wax paper and lightly spray with cooking spray. Unroll one package of crescent rolls onto the wax paper, pinching perforations together to form a seamless sheet.

Step 3: Spread Cream Cheese

Spread half of the softened cream cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.

Step 4: Add Fillings

Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage and half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the cream cheese layer.

Step 5: Roll into Logs

Using wax paper for assistance, roll dough lengthwise into a tight log, encasing filling. Wrap log tightly in plastic wrap. Repeat process with second package of crescent rolls and remaining ingredients.

Step 6: Chill

Refrigerate wrapped logs for at least 1 hour or until firm enough to slice.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F. Remove logs from refrigerator, unwrap them, and use a sharp knife to slice each log into 1/2-inch-thick pinwheels.

Step 8: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Arrange pinwheels on a baking sheet, leaving at least 1 inch of space between each.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Sausage Pinwheels

Sausage pinwheels are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate the experience.

Elegant Platter

• Arrange the pinwheels on a large platter and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an appealing presentation.

Dipping Sauces

• Offer a selection of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or barbecue sauce, to complement the savory flavors of the pinwheels.

Party Skewers

• For a fun twist, thread sausage pinwheels onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and olives for easy eating at parties.

Mini Sandwiches

• Slice the pinwheels into thicker sections and use them as filling between small buns for delightful mini sandwiches.

Cheese Board Addition

• Include sausage pinwheels on a cheese board alongside assorted cheeses, crackers, and fruits for a great appetizer spread.

Breakfast Treat

• Serve warm sausage pinwheels with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a delicious breakfast option that’s sure to impress.

How to Perfect Sausage Pinwheels

To ensure your sausage pinwheels turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Sausage: Choose high-quality pork sausage for better flavor. Fresh or homemade options can make all the difference.
• Chill the Dough: Keeping the crescent roll dough cold makes it easier to handle and helps achieve that perfect flaky texture when baked.
• Spread Evenly: Use an offset spatula to spread cream cheese evenly over the dough. This ensures each bite has consistent flavor.
• Leave Room Between Pinwheels: When placing pinwheels on the baking sheet, ensure they have enough space. This allows them to expand and bake evenly.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your oven while baking. Depending on your oven’s accuracy, cooking times may vary slightly.
• Cool Before Serving: Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly after baking. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle when serving.

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Best Side Dishes for Sausage Pinwheels

Sausage pinwheels pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some excellent side options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pinwheels perfectly.
2. Vegetable Platter: Serve fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers with hummus or ranch dip for a crunchy contrast.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying side that complements the savory flavors of sausage.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and brightness, making it an ideal pairing for rich appetizers.
5. Cheese Board: Include assorted cheeses, nuts, and fruits on a cheese board alongside sausage pinwheels for an upscale touch.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunchiness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the dish.
7. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites can be a delightful accompaniment that enhances your appetizer spread.
8. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm garlic breadsticks provide another layer of flavor while being perfect for dipping in sauces served with the pinwheels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sausage pinwheels can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Bold Dough Handling: Not keeping the dough cold can lead to sticky rolls. Make sure to refrigerate the dough until you’re ready to use it.
• Bold Overstuffing: Adding too much filling makes rolling difficult and can cause them to burst while baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Bold Inadequate Cooling: Skipping the refrigeration step after rolling may result in pinwheels that don’t hold their shape. Always chill before slicing.
• Bold Wrong Baking Temperature: Baking at too high or low a temperature can affect crispiness. Stick to 375°F for golden-brown perfection.
• Bold Ignoring Spacing: Crowding the baking sheet may lead to uneven cooking. Leave at least one inch between each pinwheel on the tray.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sausage pinwheels in an airtight container.
• They will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sausage Pinwheels

• Wrap unbaked logs tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
• Frozen pinwheels can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sausage Pinwheels

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Bold Microwave: Warm individual pinwheels on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make sausage pinwheels with different meats?

You can easily substitute pork sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese in Sausage Pinwheels?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese works well, but it may slightly change the texture. The flavor remains delicious!

What else can I add to my Sausage Pinwheels?

Feel free to customize with ingredients like spinach, jalapeños, or other cheeses for added flavor and fun.

How long does it take to make Sausage Pinwheels from start to finish?

The total time is approximately 30 minutes, including prep and baking time, making this a quick appetizer option.

Are Sausage Pinwheels suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! You can freeze both unbaked and baked pinwheels. Just follow proper wrapping techniques.

Final Thoughts

Sausage pinwheels are not only easy and quick but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them with different meats and cheeses, making them perfect for parties or family gatherings. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful appetizer that everyone will love!

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