Sausage Pinwheels

These Sausage Pinwheels are the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them an irresistible appetizer for any occasion. With just four simple ingredients, you can whip up these tasty treats in no time. Whether it’s a party, game day, or a cozy family gathering, these pinwheels are sure to impress guests with their savory sausage, creamy cheese, and flaky crust.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Sausage Pinwheels
• How to Make Sausage Pinwheels
• Step 1: Cook the Sausage
• Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough
• Step 3: Spread Cream Cheese
• Step 4: Add Sausage and Cheese
• Step 5: Roll It Up
• Step 6: Repeat Process
• Step 7: Chill Logs
• Step 8: Preheat Oven
• Step 9: Bake Pinwheels
• Step 10: Cool and Serve
• How to Serve Sausage Pinwheels
• With Dipping Sauces
• On Charcuterie Boards
• As Party Bites
• For Holiday Gatherings
• How to Perfect Sausage Pinwheels
• Best Side Dishes for Sausage Pinwheels
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Sausage Pinwheels
• Reheating Sausage Pinwheels
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of sausage?
• How do I customize my Sausage Pinwheels?
• Can I make Sausage Pinwheels ahead of time?
• What dipping sauces pair well with Sausage Pinwheels?
• How do I know when my Sausage Pinwheels are done?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These sausage pinwheels come together in just 30 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sausage and cheese is always a hit, ensuring everyone will be coming back for more.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm as appetizers or cold as finger foods; they adapt to any setting!
• Minimal Ingredients: With only four main ingredients, you can easily keep everything on hand for spontaneous snacking.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make the recipe your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your sausage pinwheels, gather all the essential tools and equipment. This will streamline your cooking process and ensure everything flows smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large skillet
• Wax paper
• Sharp knife
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for baking the pinwheels evenly.
• Large skillet: Allows you to cook the sausage thoroughly without overcrowding.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when slicing the log into pinwheels.

Ingredients

For the Sausage Pinwheels

• 1 pound bulk pork sausage
• 2 (8-ounce) packages refrigerated crescent rolls
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

How to Make Sausage Pinwheels

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbly, about 10 minutes. Drain the excess grease and set the sausage aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough

Lay out a sheet of wax paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray. Unroll one package of crescent rolls onto the wax paper, pinching the perforations together to form a seamless sheet of dough.

Step 3: Spread Cream Cheese

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

Step 4: Add Sausage and Cheese

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

Step 5: Roll It Up

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

Step 6: Repeat Process

Repeat this process with the second package of crescent rolls and remaining ingredients to create a second log.

Step 7: Chill Logs

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

Step 8: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Remove logs from refrigerator, unwrap them, and use a sharp knife to slice each log into 1/2-inch-thick pinwheels.

Step 9: Bake Pinwheels

Arrange pinwheels on a baking sheet with at least 1 inch of space between each. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Remove from oven and allow pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Sausage Pinwheels

Sausage pinwheels are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious appetizer.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A cool and creamy dip that complements the savory flavors of the sausage.
• Honey Mustard: The sweetness balances well with the spice of the sausage, creating a delightful contrast.
• Barbecue Sauce: Adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cheese.

On Charcuterie Boards

• Cheese Selection: Include a variety of cheeses such as gouda or pepper jack for added variety.
• Pickles and Olives: These add a tangy crunch that offsets the richness of the pinwheels.
• Crackers and Nuts: Provide texture and extra snacking options for guests.

As Party Bites

• Mini Skewers: Thread pinwheels on small skewers for easy handling at parties.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Parsley or chives can add a pop of color and freshness to your serving platter.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Festive Platter Arrangement: Arrange pinwheels in a circular shape on a large platter, filling in gaps with seasonal fruits like cranberries.
• Serve Warm or Cold: These pinwheels are delicious either way, making them flexible for any holiday event.

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How to Perfect Sausage Pinwheels

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh sausage and cheese to enhance flavor.
• Keep Dough Chilled: Keeping crescent roll dough cold makes it easier to roll without sticking.
• Roll Tightly: A tight roll helps maintain shape during baking, ensuring consistent size and doneness.
• Slice Evenly: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts, allowing even cooking and presentation.
• Space Them Out on Baking Sheet: Leaving space between pinwheels allows them to expand while baking, preventing them from merging together.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Pinwheels

Pairing side dishes with your sausage pinwheels can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fresh Salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette adds freshness to balance the rich flavors.
2. Vegetable Platter: Crunchy carrots, celery sticks, and bell peppers offer a healthy option alongside your savory appetizers.
3. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit adds sweetness; try combining strawberries, melon, and pineapple on skewers for easy snacking.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a hearty side dish that pairs well with pinwheels.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats provide an earthy contrast that complements sausage flavors nicely.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for soaking up any leftover dipping sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding pitfalls can make your Sausage Pinwheels turn out perfectly. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them:

• Skipping the Cooling Step: Not allowing the sausage to cool after cooking can cause the cream cheese to melt too quickly, making it hard to roll. Always let it cool before mixing.
• Neglecting the Dough Temperature: Using dough that’s too warm can lead to a sticky mess. Keep your crescent rolls chilled until you’re ready to use them for better handling.
• Overfilling the Pinwheels: Adding too much filling will make rolling difficult and may cause the pinwheels to burst while baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Inadequate Spacing on Baking Sheet: Placing pinwheels too close together can prevent even baking and browning. Leave at least 1 inch between each pinwheel on the baking sheet.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Baking for too long or too short can affect texture and flavor. Keep an eye on them, aiming for a golden brown finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Sausage Pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• For best freshness, keep them in a single layer or separate layers with parchment paper.

Freezing Sausage Pinwheels

• Freeze uncooked pinwheels for up to 2 months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date for reference.

Reheating Sausage Pinwheels

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place pinwheels on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual pinwheels on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds. Watch closely to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Sausage Pinwheels:

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! You can experiment with various sausages like turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or even spicy sausage for added kick.

How do I customize my Sausage Pinwheels?

Feel free to add vegetables such as diced bell peppers or onions into the filling. You can also try different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella.

Can I make Sausage Pinwheels ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge before baking, or freeze them for longer storage.

What dipping sauces pair well with Sausage Pinwheels?

These pinwheels go great with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a honey mustard dip.

How do I know when my Sausage Pinwheels are done?

Look for a golden-brown color on top. If they seem firm and have risen slightly, they’re ready!

Final Thoughts

These Sausage Pinwheels are not only delicious but incredibly versatile, making them ideal for any occasion—from parties to casual gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can customize them to suit your taste preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys these crowd-pleasers. Give this recipe a try and impress your guests!