Looking for an easy and tasty snack? Try my Savory Rotel Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents! This recipe combines soft crescent rolls with ground sausage, cream cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes. It’s not just delicious; it’s perfect for parties or a cozy night at home. I’ll guide you through each simple step, so you can enjoy this crowd-pleaser in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
– 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
– 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Seasonings and Garnishes
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
For this recipe, you need a few simple items. The crescent roll dough makes it easy to create flaky bites. Ground sausage adds savory flavor, while cream cheese gives a rich, creamy texture. The Rotel tomatoes add a bit of heat and zest, and the cheddar cheese ties everything together nicely.
The seasonings enhance the taste. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth. Don’t forget salt and pepper to boost all the flavors. If you like, top your crescents with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch.
Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. This helps to keep you organized and makes cooking fun! You can find the full recipe to guide you through each step.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the crescents bake evenly.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy.
3. In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground sausage over medium heat. Stir and break it apart as it cooks. Cook until it is browned and fully done. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Mixing and Rolling
1. Lower the heat and add 8 ounces of softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until it melts and blends well with the sausage.
2. Fold in 10 ounces of drained Rotel tomatoes, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and even. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. On a clean surface, unroll 1 can of refrigerated crescent roll dough. Separate it into triangles as the package shows.
4. Put a generous spoonful of the sausage filling at the wide end of each triangle. Roll the dough up towards the tip. Make sure to enclose the filling completely.
Baking
1. Place the rolled crescents on the lined baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and flaky texture.
3. After baking, remove the crescents from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. If you like, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of color.
For more details, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Ideal Cooking Techniques
– Cooking sausage properly: Start by cooking the sausage over medium heat. Break it apart with a spatula. You want it browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease to keep the filling light.
– Ensuring the perfect cream cheese consistency: Use room temperature cream cheese. This helps it blend smoothly with the sausage. Stir until it melts and combines well, making a rich filling.
Storage Tips
– Best ways to store leftovers: Cool the crescents before storing. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for about three days.
– How to reheat crescents for optimal taste: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the crescents on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes, until warm and flaky. This keeps them delicious.
Serving Suggestions
– Pairing options for dips and sides: Serve with ranch dressing or salsa. These dips add flavor and make the dish even more fun. You can also try guacamole or cheese dip.
– Presentation ideas: Arrange the crescents on a colorful platter. Garnish with chopped cilantro for a pop of color. This makes your dish look fancy and inviting.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change the protein in this dish. Turkey sausage works well if you want a lighter option. If you prefer a meat-free version, try using plant-based sausage. You can use different cheeses, too. Cream cheese adds a rich flavor, but cheddar or pepper jack also fit nicely.
Flavor Twists
Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the filling. This will bring heat to the dish. You can also mix in vegetables. Diced bell peppers or green onions can add freshness and crunch.
Serving Forms
You can make mini bites instead of crescents. Just cut the dough into smaller pieces and fill them. Bake them for a fun party snack. If you want a hearty dish, try a casserole version. Just layer the filling in a baking dish with crescent dough on top. Bake until golden for a warm, cheesy meal.
For the full recipe, check out the details above!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your savory Rotel sausage cream cheese crescents fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. Wrap each crescent in plastic wrap or foil. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Shelf Life
How long do the crescents keep in the fridge or freezer? In the fridge, they stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. In the freezer, they can last up to 2 months. Just make sure they are sealed well to avoid freezer burn.
Signs of Spoilage
How can you tell if the dish is no longer good? Look for any unusual smells or changes in color. If the crescents feel slimy or sticky, it’s best to toss them. Always trust your nose and eyes. If something seems off, don’t take chances. Enjoy your crescents while they are fresh and tasty!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use a different type of dough?
Yes, you can use different dough. Try puff pastry or biscuit dough. Each option adds its own unique texture and flavor.
Can I make these crescents ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and store it in the fridge. Just roll and bake when ready to serve.
Cooking Questions
What to do if the crescents are not golden brown?
If they are not golden brown, increase the baking time by a few minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
How do I know the sausage is fully cooked?
The sausage should be browned and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer to check if it reads 160°F (71°C).
Ingredient Queries
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese works well. It will change the texture slightly, but the flavor remains delicious.
What are Rotel tomatoes and can I substitute them?
Rotel tomatoes are diced tomatoes mixed with green chilies. You can substitute them with regular diced tomatoes and add your own spices for heat.
This blog outlines a delicious recipe for savory crescent rolls using simple ingredients. We explored the required items, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to customize this dish with different fillings and flavors. Remember to store leftovers properly and check for spoilage signs. Whether for a party or a snack, these crescent rolls are sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking adventure and feel free to experiment with new flavors for a tasty twist!
