Quick Description
These Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels are the ultimate savory snack or appetizer. With flavorful breakfast sausage, creamy cheese, and a buttery, flaky dough, these pinwheels are a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for parties, game day, or as a quick, satisfying bite, they’re easy to make and packed with cheesy, meaty goodness.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 12–15 pinwheels
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Ingredients List
- ½ lb. breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (softened)
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (optional, for a pizza-like flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a medium skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon until fully cooked and browned (about 5–7 minutes). Drain any excess grease and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine the cooked sausage with the shredded mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano (if using). Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
Step 4: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. If the sheet is too large, trim it down to fit your baking sheet. Spread the sausage and cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 5: Roll and Slice
Carefully roll the puff pastry up into a log, starting from one edge. Once rolled, cut the log into 1-inch slices to form pinwheels. Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a little apart.
Step 6: Bake
Brush the tops of the pinwheels with olive oil or melted butter for a golden, crispy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed, golden, and crispy.
Step 7: Serve
Allow the pinwheels to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm as an appetizer or snack. These are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!
Additional Notes
- Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture or use a spicy breakfast sausage.
- Cheese Variations: You can swap the mozzarella for cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for different flavors.
- Puff Pastry Substitutes: If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, try using a low-carb or keto-friendly tortilla or dough instead of puff pastry.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein: The sausage and cheese filling provides a good amount of protein to keep you full and satisfied.
- Low-Carb Option: You can swap the puff pastry for low-carb dough to make these pinwheels keto-friendly.
- Gluten-Free Option: If using a gluten-free puff pastry or dough, this recipe can be made gluten-free.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Vegetarian Version: Use a plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
- Add Vegetables: Mix in finely chopped spinach or bell peppers with the sausage for a veggie-packed filling.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with a dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or even a spicy mustard.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked pinwheels. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of dough?
Yes! You can use crescent roll dough, pizza dough, or even low-carb dough as an alternative to puff pastry, depending on your preference.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just let them come to room temperature before baking, or bake them directly from the fridge.
