Rotel Sausage Cheese Crescent Rolls

This savory Rotel Sausage & Cream Cheese Crescent Roll recipe transforms simple ingredients into irresistible bite-sized treats that disappear within minutes at any gathering. The flaky crescent dough wrapped around spicy sausage and creamy cheese creates perfect handheld bites that work for breakfast, snacks, or party appetizers.

I first made these for a last minute neighborhood potluck and they vanished before I could even grab one for myself. Now I always double the batch knowing my teenage sons will claim at least half before guests arrive.

Ingredients

• Breakfast sausage: Provides the savory foundation. Choose quality sausage with visible herbs and spices for the best flavor profile.
• Cream cheese: Acts as the creamy binder. Allow it to fully soften at room temperature for easiest mixing and smoothest texture.
• Rotel tomatoes: Add the perfect zip of heat and acidity. Drain extremely well to prevent soggy rolls.
• Refrigerated crescent rolls: Deliver flaky layers without any baking expertise required. Store brand works perfectly fine here.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Set your oven to 375°F and line your baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless while ensuring the bottoms brown evenly without burning.

Create the Filling:

Combine your cooked crumbled sausage with softened cream cheese and thoroughly drained Rotel in a large mixing bowl. Use a rubber spatula to fold everything together until the cream cheese is fully incorporated with no white streaks remaining. The filling should be thick and hold together well.

Prepare the Crescents:

Unroll your crescent dough carefully on a clean surface. Each can contains perforated triangles. Take each triangle and slice it lengthwise to create two slimmer triangles. This technique doubles your yield while creating perfectly proportioned bites.

Fill and Shape:

Place about one tablespoon of filling on the wide end of each slim triangle. Avoid overfilling as it will squeeze out during baking. Roll from the wide end toward the pointed tip, tucking in any stray filling as you go. Place each roll on your prepared baking sheet with the seam side down to prevent unraveling.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for exactly 15 minutes. Look for a rich golden brown color across the tops of the rolls. The dough should be completely cooked with no doughy centers when tested.

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My absolute favorite version uses spicy Italian sausage instead of breakfast sausage for an extra kick of heat. The first time I served these at our annual block party, three neighbors demanded the recipe before leaving and now they appear at nearly every neighborhood gathering.

Make Ahead Magic

These crescent bites shine as a make ahead appetizer. You can prepare them completely up to the baking stage, refrigerate covered for up to 24 hours, then simply bake when guests arrive. Add about 2 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from refrigerated. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. Bake from frozen by adding 5 minutes to the cooking time.

Tasty Variations

While the classic recipe is already delightful, several variations have become family favorites. Try substituting pepper jack cheese for half the cream cheese for extra spice. Vegetarian guests appreciate a version made with plant based sausage crumbles and a sprinkle of smoked paprika. For a breakfast focused twist, add a handful of scrambled eggs to the filling mixture before rolling.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile bites pair beautifully with a variety of dipping options. Ranch dressing provides cool contrast to the spicy filling, while honey mustard adds tangy sweetness. For brunch settings, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness. When offering as party appetizers, arrange on a tiered stand with other finger foods like stuffed mushrooms and mini quiches for an impressive spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent the crescent rolls from unrolling while baking?

Ensure you roll the dough tightly and place it seam-side down on the baking sheet to help keep it intact during baking.

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to substitute breakfast sausage with Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a unique twist.

→ What’s the best way to drain the Rotel tomatoes?

After opening the can, use a fine-mesh strainer or a colander to press out excess liquid for the best filling consistency.

→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and assemble the rolls in advance. Store them covered in the fridge, and bake fresh when needed.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these rolls?

Popular choices include ranch dressing, marinara sauce, honey mustard, or even a homemade cheese dip for added indulgence.

→ Can these rolls be frozen?

Yes! Freeze the unbaked rolls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.