These Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are a tasty treat! Flaky crescent rolls wrap around savory sausage and creamy cheese, creating a perfect bite-sized snack.
They’re super simple to make, and everyone loves them! I like to serve them at parties or just enjoy them during a movie night—who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is what makes the filling creamy and delicious. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use reduced-fat cream cheese or even a dairy-free cream cheese if you have dietary restrictions.
Breakfast Sausage: You can use pork sausage for a classic flavor, but turkey sausage is a great lighter option! For a twist, try using chorizo for a bit of spice.
Crescent Roll Dough: This makes the bites flaky and fluffy. If you can’t find crescent rolls, puff pastry can be a great alternative. Just cut it into similar triangles!
Parmesan Cheese: While optional, this adds a nice salty flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, grated cheddar or mozzarella can work well, too.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning enhance the taste. Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs like thyme or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat!
How Do I Perfectly Roll Crescent Bites Without the Filling Leaking?
The rolling stage can be tricky, but here are some tips to keep your bites intact:
- Start with a small amount of filling (1 to 1.5 tablespoons works well) to avoid overflow.
- Make sure to pinch the edges well after rolling to secure the filling inside.
- Place the bites seam side down on the baking sheet to help keep them sealed while baking.
Lastly, if any filling peeks out a bit, don’t worry! It might get crispy, and everyone loves that extra cheesy bite.
How to Make Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning or parsley (optional)
For the Crescent Bites:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
- Parsley sprigs (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of baking time. In total, you should set aside about 35 minutes to get these delicious bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the bites from sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked. Use a spoon to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the next steps.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked sausage, garlic powder, black pepper, and Italian seasoning or parsley (if you’re using it). Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy!
4. Unroll the Crescent Dough:
Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles by cutting along the perforations. This is where you’ll be wrapping up your filling!
5. Fill and Roll:
Take about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the sausage and cream cheese mixture and place it near the wide end of each crescent triangle. Starting at the wide end, roll the triangle up toward the pointed end, making sure to encase the filling inside. Pinch the edges if needed to seal them up.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Once rolled, arrange the crescent bites seam side down on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced out a bit to allow for expansion during baking.
7. Brush with Butter:
Using a brush, gently coat the tops of the crescent bites with melted butter. For extra flavor, sprinkle on some grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
8. Bake:
Now, pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and fully cooked. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. For a lovely touch, garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Then, serve them warm and enjoy these tasty, cheesy, sausage-filled bites!
These Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Bites make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or fun party treat! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Low-Fat or Dairy-Free Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option, or try a dairy-free cream cheese if you have dietary restrictions. Just make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
Can I Prepare These Bites in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and roll the bites ahead of time. Just keep them wrapped tightly in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, bake them as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes if they’re chilled.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover crescent bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but they may lose some crispiness.
What Can I Serve with These Crescent Bites?
These bites pair wonderfully with dipping sauces! Try serving them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy mustard. They’re perfect for parties or game day gatherings!
