Looking for a delicious treat that will wow your guests? Try my Rotel Sausage & Cream Cheese Crescents! Soft, flaky, and bursting with flavor, these bites are perfect for any gathering. With easy prep and common ingredients like ground sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty Rotel, you’ll have a festive delight ready in no time. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– Ground sausage (mild or spicy)
– Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
– Cream cheese
– Crescent roll dough
Additional Ingredients
– Shredded cheddar cheese
– Garlic powder and onion powder
– Salt and pepper
Garnish Options
– Fresh parsley or cilantro
Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference. I love using ground sausage because it brings so much flavor. You can pick mild if you want a gentle taste or spicy for a kick. The Rotel diced tomatoes add a nice zing with their green chilies. Cream cheese makes the filling creamy and rich.
Next, you’ll need crescent roll dough, which is key for that flaky texture. For extra flavor, add shredded cheddar cheese. Garlic powder and onion powder give a savory depth. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper.
For a fresh touch, I like to add parsley or cilantro as a garnish. This makes the dish look great and adds a burst of color. When you mix these ingredients, you create a delightful treat that everyone will love. You can find the full recipe to get all the details on how to make it!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– In a skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat. Break it apart with a spatula. Cook until fully browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
Assembling the Crescents
– Mix the can of Rotel tomatoes with the cooked sausage, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
– Stir well and add the cream cheese. Mix until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Baking Instructions
– Unroll the crescent roll dough and place it on a clean surface.
– Spoon a generous amount of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each triangle. Sprinkle a little cheddar cheese on top.
– Roll from the wide end to the point, forming a crescent shape.
– Place the rolled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
– Once done, remove from the oven and cool for a few minutes.
– If you like, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
For more details, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Drain excess grease for a healthier option. This keeps your crescents light.
– Use low-fat cream cheese if desired. It still tastes great and cuts calories.
Serving Suggestions
– Pair with salsa or sour cream for added flavor. This makes each bite special.
– Arrange on a platter for gatherings. This makes sharing easy and fun.
Presentation Tips
– Use fresh herbs for garnish. A little green adds color to your dish.
– Serve warm for the best flavor. Warm crescents taste amazing and melt in your mouth.
You can find the Full Recipe for these tasty bites above.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change the main ingredient. Try turkey sausage for a leaner option. If you want a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage. Both will give a tasty twist. You can also mix up the cheeses. Instead of cheddar, try pepper jack for a spicy kick. Cream cheese can be swapped with goat cheese for a tangy flavor.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to spice things up? Add jalapeños to the filling for heat. They can really wake up the dish. You can also play with herbs and spices. Fresh basil or oregano can give a nice aroma. A pinch of cumin or smoked paprika adds depth too.
Serving Style Variations
Think about how you want to serve them. Make mini crescents for fun appetizers. They are perfect for parties or game days. You can also serve the crescents as a main dish with sides. Pair them with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a full meal. Each way you serve them brings out different flavors and fun!
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
To keep your baked crescents fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their flavor and texture. Place them in the fridge right after they cool. They will last up to three days in the refrigerator.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to enjoy your leftovers, I recommend using the oven or a toaster oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the crescents on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them crispy. Avoid using a microwave, as it may make them soggy.
Freezing Options
If you want to save some crescents for later, you can freeze them unbaked. Roll them up and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can stay good for up to two months. When ready to bake, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake according to the Full Recipe instructions.
FAQs
What if I can’t find Rotel?
If you can’t find Rotel, don’t worry! You can use other diced tomatoes. Look for canned tomatoes with green chilies. Brands like Hunt’s or Del Monte offer similar options. You can also mix diced tomatoes with a bit of chili powder. This gives a nice kick.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these crescents ahead of time! Prepare the filling the day before. Store it in the fridge. You can also roll the crescents and keep them in the fridge. Just cover them with plastic wrap. Bake them the next day. They will taste fresh!
How do I know when they are done?
To tell if your crescents are done, check their color. They should be golden brown. Gently press on them; they should feel firm. You can also check the bottom. It should be golden too. If they look and feel good, they are ready to eat!
This blog post provided a clear guide to making delicious crescent roll appetizers. You learned about the key ingredients, the preparation steps, and helpful tips for serving. Remember, you can customize this dish to your taste. Try different meats or cheeses and enjoy! Whether you serve them at a party or keep them for a snack, these crescents are sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and impressing your friends and family with your tasty creations!
