Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

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Golden, flaky crescents filled with rich, savory sausage and creamy, tangy cheese — this recipe is pure comfort food. The buttery layers of pastry provide the perfect contrast to the hearty sausage filling, making each bite a satisfying mix of crisp, soft, and creamy textures. Whether you’re serving these for breakfast, as a party snack, or a quick dinner solution, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends.

These crescents are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, they offer a warm, indulgent treat perfect for busy mornings or relaxing weekend brunches. They’re equally fantastic as appetizers or game-day snacks — versatile and packed with flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and simple steps make this ideal for busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for brunch parties, family breakfasts, or casual get-togethers.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and baked fresh when needed.
• Comfort Food Delight: The combination of buttery pastry, creamy filling, and savory sausage is irresistible.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To ensure your Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents turn out perfect, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Baking Sheet: A large, flat baking sheet ensures the crescents bake evenly and turn golden brown without overcrowding.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining the sausage and cream cheese filling.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Helps you mix the filling thoroughly.
• Pastry Brush: Useful for brushing egg wash onto the crescents for a beautifully golden crust.
• Knife or Pizza Cutter: For cutting the dough if needed.
• Skillet: To cook the sausage to perfection before assembling the crescents.

Using the right tools will ensure even cooking, proper assembly, and a smooth preparation process.

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Preparation Tips

• Cook the Sausage Thoroughly: Ensure the sausage is fully cooked and browned before mixing with the cream cheese. Drain excess grease to prevent soggy pastries.
• Let the Filling Cool Slightly: A cooled filling is easier to work with and won’t melt the dough prematurely.
• Don’t Overfill: Adding too much sausage filling can make the crescents difficult to seal and may lead to leaks.
• Pinch the Edges: After rolling, pinch the dough’s edges slightly to ensure the filling stays intact during baking.
• Egg Wash for Shine: Brushing the tops with an egg wash adds a beautiful golden sheen and enhances the pastry’s crispness.

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Ingredients for Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

• 1 pound ground sausage (mild, spicy, or flavored to your preference)
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese (softened)
• 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
• 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

These simple ingredients combine to create a rich, savory filling encased in flaky, buttery pastry — perfect for any occasion.

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease and transfer the cooked sausage to a mixing bowl.

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Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Add the softened cream cheese to the cooked sausage while it’s still warm. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, or additional spices like garlic powder if desired. Let the filling cool slightly before assembling the crescents.

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Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles along the pre-cut lines.

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Step 4: Fill and Roll the Crescents

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Carefully roll each triangle from the wide end to the pointed tip, enclosing the filling inside. Place each crescent seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

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Step 5: Apply Egg Wash (Optional)

In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Lightly brush the egg wash over the tops of the crescents for a golden, glossy finish.

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Step 6: Bake

Bake the crescents in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.

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Step 7: Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let the crescents cool for a few minutes before serving. For extra flavor, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy warm!

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Notes

• Spice Level Adjustment: If you enjoy a spicier kick, consider using hot sausage or adding red pepper flakes to the filling.
• Cheese Variations: Try adding shredded cheddar or pepper jack to the filling for extra flavor.
• Dough Options: Crescent roll dough works best, but puff pastry can be a delicious alternative for a flakier texture.
• Serving Idea: These crescents pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Grease Drain: Failing to drain the cooked sausage may lead to greasy crescents with soggy bottoms.
• Overfilling the Crescents: Too much filling can make the dough difficult to seal and may result in leakage during baking.
• Rolling Too Tightly: Rolling the crescents too tightly can cause the dough to tear or prevent the layers from puffing up properly.
• Underbaking: Ensure the crescents are golden brown before removing them from the oven. Undercooked dough may appear soft or doughy in the middle.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: While optional, this step greatly enhances the crescents’ appearance and adds a delightful crispness.
• Serving Too Soon: Allow the crescents to cool slightly before serving to prevent burns and help the filling set properly.

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What to Serve With Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

These savory crescents are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and dips. Here are some delicious ideas to elevate your meal:

8 Recommendations

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A light, refreshing mix of berries, melons, and citrus balances the richness of the crescents.
2. Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy eggs complement the creamy, savory filling for a satisfying breakfast combo.
3. Hash Browns or Breakfast Potatoes – Crispy, seasoned potatoes add a hearty and flavorful side.
4. Green Salad – A simple salad with vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the warm crescents.
5. Tomato Soup – The creamy sausage filling pairs beautifully with a rich, comforting bowl of soup.
6. Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy coleslaw can add a refreshing bite.
7. Dipping Sauces – Try ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy aioli for added flavor.
8. Pickles or Olives – These salty, tangy bites cut through the richness of the crescents, adding balance.

Mix and match these sides depending on whether you’re serving these crescents for breakfast, lunch, or as party appetizers.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:
Store leftover Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crisp texture, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing:
For longer storage, these crescents freeze beautifully. Once cooled, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1-2 hours. Transfer the frozen crescents to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore their crispness.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 5-6 minutes for a faster, crispy finish.
• Microwave: While convenient, this method may soften the pastry. Heat in 20-second intervals until warmed through.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Crescent (approximate values):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 2g

Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these crescents ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage and cream cheese filling up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and assemble the crescents just before baking for optimal freshness.

2. Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage can be used as alternatives to traditional pork sausage.

3. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Avoid overfilling the crescents and ensure the dough edges are securely pinched closed. Placing them seam-side down on the baking sheet also helps.

4. Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach can be added to the sausage mixture for extra flavor and texture.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or in the air fryer for 5-6 minutes. This will restore the flaky, crispy texture.

6. Can I make these crescent rolls without cream cheese?

Yes! If you prefer a different filling, try adding shredded cheese or a cheese sauce for a creamy texture without cream cheese.

7. Are these crescents good for meal prep?

Absolutely! They hold up well when stored properly, making them a fantastic grab-and-go breakfast or snack option.

8. Can I serve these at room temperature?

While they taste best warm, these crescents can be served at room temperature for parties or gatherings. Just be sure they aren’t left out for more than 2 hours.

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Conclusion

Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are a versatile, satisfying dish that fits effortlessly into breakfast, brunch, or snack time. With their flaky pastry, creamy filling, and savory sausage, they’re sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re making them for a family breakfast or serving them as appetizers at a party, these delicious crescents deliver comfort and flavor in every bite. Enjoy!

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