Sausage Pinwheels

These Sausage Pinwheels are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings together ease and flavor. With just four ingredients, you can whip up these delightful bites in no time. Perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering, these pinwheels offer a savory combination of sausage and cheese wrapped in a flaky crust. Their simple preparation and irresistible taste make them a must-have at your next event!

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Pinwheels

These pinwheels are more than just tasty snacks; they are versatile and enjoyable for everyone.

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these appetizers ready to bake.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The blend of sausage and cheese creates a deliciously rich flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether it’s a party or a family dinner, these pinwheels fit any occasion perfectly.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite spices or veggies to the filling for extra flavor.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the logs in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake, making entertaining stress-free.

Tools and Preparation

To make delicious sausage pinwheels, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the sausage, making it crumbly and flavorful.
• Wax Paper: This is perfect for rolling the dough without sticking and aids in creating tight logs.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing the pinwheels, making them look presentable.

Ingredients

These sausage pinwheels are a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer made with just 4 ingredients! Perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering, they’re packed with savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a flaky, golden crust.

For the Sausage Filling

• 1 pound bulk pork sausage
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

For the Dough

• 2 (8-ounce) packages refrigerated crescent rolls

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Sausage Pinwheels

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bulk pork sausage until browned and crumbly. This should take 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 it with cooking spray. Unroll one package of crescent rolls on the wax paper. Pinch together the perforations to create a seamless sheet of dough.

Step 3: Add Cream Cheese

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

Step 4: Layer Sausage & Cheese

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

Step 5: Roll It Up

Using wax paper for assistance, roll the dough lengthwise into a tight log to encase all filling. Wrap this log tightly in plastic wrap.

Step 6: Repeat for Second Log

Repeat steps 2-5 using the second package of crescent rolls with remaining ingredients to create another log.

Step 7: Chill

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

Step 8: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once preheated, remove logs from refrigerator and unwrap them.

Step 9: Slice Pinwheels

Use a sharp knife to slice each log into 1/2-inch-thick pinwheels. Arrange slices on a baking sheet with at least an inch space between each piece.

Step 10: Bake

Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Once baked, remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Sausage Pinwheels

Sausage pinwheels are a versatile appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual gathering, these delightful bites can be served with creative flair.

Pair with Dips

• Mustard Dip: A tangy mustard dip pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the sausage.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch dressing adds a cool contrast to the warmth of the pinwheels.
• Spicy Sriracha Sauce: For those who like a kick, spicy sriracha sauce can elevate the flavor profile.

Add Fresh Veggies

• Crunchy Carrot Sticks: Fresh carrot sticks provide a crisp texture and balance out the rich pinwheels.
• Celery Sticks: Celery sticks add a refreshing crunch and make for easy dipping.
• Cucumber Slices: Light cucumber slices can cleanse the palate between bites.

Create a Platter

• Cheese Board: Arrange assorted cheeses alongside sausage pinwheels for a delightful charcuterie experience.
• Olives and Pickles: A mix of olives and pickles can bring an additional layer of flavor to your serving setup.

How to Perfect Sausage Pinwheels

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

• Bold Flavoring: Use seasoned sausage for added depth. This enhances the overall taste of your pinwheels.
• Bold Rolling Technique: Roll tightly to prevent filling from leaking during baking. A tight roll helps maintain shape.
• Bold Cooling Time: Chill logs before slicing. This makes cutting easier and ensures clean edges on each pinwheel.
• Bold Baking Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated. Proper temperature guarantees golden brown and flaky results.

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Best Side Dishes for Sausage Pinwheels

Sausage pinwheels can be complemented by a variety of side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the pinwheels.
2. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide hearty satisfaction alongside your savory bites.
3. Fruit Skewers: Sweet fruit skewers bring a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the sausage.
4. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: Spicy cauliflower bites offer an exciting twist that pairs well with sausage flavors.
5. Mini Quiches: These bite-sized treats add variety and are perfect for complementing your appetizer spread.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks enhance any gathering, providing a comforting side option.

Enjoy serving these sausage pinwheels alongside these tasty sides!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making sausage pinwheels, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not cooking the sausage properly: Ensure the sausage is fully browned and crumbly. Undercooked sausage can lead to food safety issues.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the logs is crucial for easier slicing. If you skip this step, the dough can become difficult to cut without falling apart.
• Using too much filling: Overfilling can cause the pinwheels to burst open while baking. Stick to the recommended amounts to maintain their shape.
• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This helps achieve a golden brown finish and ensures even cooking.
• Ignoring spacing on the baking sheet: Crowding the pinwheels can lead to uneven baking. Leave enough space between each pinwheel for expansion during baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sausage pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can be kept for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap individual pinwheels tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place pinwheels on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated thoroughly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Sausage Pinwheels?

Sausage pinwheels are bite-sized appetizers made from rolled-up crescent dough filled with sausage and cheese. They are perfect for parties and gatherings.

Can I customize my Sausage Pinwheels?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like spinach, jalapeños, or different cheese varieties to cater to your taste preferences.

How do I make Sausage Pinwheels ahead of time?

You can prepare the sausage logs and keep them wrapped in plastic wrap before refrigerating or freezing them. Slice and bake when ready!

What dipping sauces go well with Sausage Pinwheels?

Sausage pinwheels pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy mustard dip for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

These sausage pinwheels are not only quick and easy but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with different fillings and dips to make them your own. Give this delicious recipe a try at your next gathering!