These Sausage Pinwheels are an irresistible blend of flaky crescent dough, savory sausage, creamy cheese, and melty cheddar. They’re the perfect appetizer for parties, game nights, potlucks, or even a cozy weekend snack. The best part? They’re quick and easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crowd-Pleasing – A guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Easy to Make – Roll, slice, bake—done!
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare in advance for stress-free hosting.
Customizable – Swap the sausage, cheese, or dough for your own twist.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving in, let’s set up for success!
Essential Tools and Equipment
Large Skillet – For browning the sausage.
Mixing Spoon – To break up and stir the sausage.
Wax Paper or Parchment Paper – Helps with rolling the dough.
Plastic Wrap – Keeps the rolled logs secure while chilling.
Sharp Knife – Ensures clean, even slices.
Baking Sheet – For evenly baking the pinwheels.
Parchment Paper or Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking.
Preparation Tips
Soften the cream cheese – Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Drain excess grease from the sausage after cooking to avoid soggy pinwheels.
Chill the dough logs before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Preheat the oven to ensure even baking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound bulk pork sausage
- 2 (8-ounce) packages refrigerated crescent rolls
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Optional Additions & Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage.
- Herb Boost: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Different Cheese: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda.
- Healthier Option: Use turkey sausage and reduced-fat cream cheese.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Cook the Sausage
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbly (about 10 minutes).
- Drain excess grease and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Dough
- Lay out a sheet of wax paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray.
- Unroll one package of crescent rolls, pinching the perforations together to form a seamless sheet of dough.
3. Assemble the Filling
- Spread half of the softened cream cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage and half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the cream cheese layer.
4. Roll and Chill
- Using the wax paper for assistance, roll the dough lengthwise into a tight log.
- Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (this helps with slicing).
- Repeat the process with the second package of crescent rolls and remaining ingredients.
5. Slice and Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove the logs from the refrigerator and unwrap them.
- Use a sharp knife to slice each log into 1/2-inch-thick pinwheels.
- Arrange pinwheels on a baking sheet, leaving at least 1 inch of space between each.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy them warm and crispy!
Serving Suggestions
These flaky, cheesy, and savory pinwheels taste amazing on their own, but they’re even better when paired with the right sides and dips. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
Best Dips for Sausage Pinwheels
Classic Ranch Dip – A creamy, tangy contrast to the cheesy pinwheels.
Garlic Aioli – Adds a rich and flavorful kick.
Spicy Sriracha Mayo – Perfect for those who love a little heat.
Queso Cheese Dip – Because you can never have too much cheese!
Marinara Sauce – Gives a pizza-like twist to these pinwheels.
Guacamole – A fresh, creamy addition that pairs surprisingly well.
Side Dish Recommendations
Pair your Sausage Pinwheels with these tasty side dishes to make them part of a more complete meal or party spread:
Crisp Garden Salad – A refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy pinwheels.
Vegetable Platter – Serve with carrots, celery, and bell peppers for balance.
Tomato Basil Soup – The warmth of the soup complements the crispy texture.
Loaded Baked Potato Bites – A delicious, hearty pairing.
Garlic Breadsticks – Great for soaking up any extra dip!
Candied Bacon Bites – Sweet and salty perfection.
Wine Pairing – Try a crisp white wine or sparkling cider.
Refreshing Lemonade – A citrusy drink that balances out the richness.
Common Mistakes & How to Perfect the Recipe
Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your pinwheels turn out perfect every time!
1. Not Pinching the Dough Seams Together
Fix: Always pinch the seams of the crescent dough together to create a seamless sheet. Otherwise, the filling can leak out while baking.
2. Overstuffing the Pinwheels
Fix: Use the recommended amount of filling. Overfilling can cause the pinwheels to burst open in the oven.
3. Skipping the Chilling Step
Fix: Chill the rolled dough for at least 1 hour before slicing. This makes it much easier to cut clean, even pinwheels.
4. Using a Dull Knife to Slice
Fix: Use a sharp serrated knife to get smooth slices without squishing the dough.
5. Baking at the Wrong Temperature
Fix: 375°F (190°C) is the ideal temperature. Too low, and they won’t crisp up properly; too high, and they may burn before the center is cooked.
6. Not Draining the Sausage Properly
Fix: Drain excess grease from the cooked sausage to prevent soggy pinwheels.
7. Placing Pinwheels Too Close Together
Fix: Leave at least 1 inch of space between each pinwheel to allow even baking.
8. Letting Them Sit Too Long Before Serving
Fix: Enjoy them warm and fresh from the oven for the best taste and texture!
Recipe Tips for the Best Sausage Pinwheels
Use Quality Sausage – Opt for flavorful bulk pork sausage or try turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Chill Before Slicing – Refrigerating the rolled dough makes slicing easier and prevents flattening.
Avoid Overcrowding the Baking Sheet – Give each pinwheel room to expand and crisp up properly.
Customize the Filling – Experiment with different cheeses, seasonings, or even diced veggies for added flavor.
Make It Spicier – Use spicy sausage, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
Try Puff Pastry Instead – Swap crescent dough for puff pastry for an even flakier texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store cooled pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Place baked pinwheels in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Sausage Pinwheels
- Oven (Best Method): Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes for a quick and crispy reheat.
- Microwave: Heat in 15-20 second intervals, though they may be softer.
How to Freeze Before Baking
- Assemble the pinwheels and freeze the unbaked logs for up to 2 months.
- When ready to bake, slice frozen and bake as directed, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Sausage Pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pinwheel logs in advance and refrigerate overnight or freeze them for later.
2. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?
Absolutely! Puff pastry will make the pinwheels extra flaky and buttery. Just keep in mind that baking times may need slight adjustments.
3. What kind of sausage works best?
Traditional pork sausage is a classic choice, but you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based alternative.
4. How do I keep pinwheels warm for a party?
Place them on a warm baking sheet in a 200°F oven or use a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting.
5. Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes! Use meatless sausage crumbles, sautéed mushrooms, or a spinach and cheese filling instead.
6. Why did my pinwheels unroll while baking?
Make sure to roll the dough tightly and chill before slicing to keep them from unraveling.
7. Can I add extra fillings?
Of course! Try adding diced jalapeños, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes for a fun twist.
8. What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Use a sharp serrated knife and slice with a gentle sawing motion to prevent flattening.
Conclusion
Sausage Pinwheels are a savory, cheesy, and flaky appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, a holiday gathering, or a quick snack, they are easy to prepare, customizable, and always a crowd favorite. Plus, with the make-ahead and freezing options, you can have a batch ready anytime!
Try them out and let us know how you customize yours!
Sausage Pinwheels
Ingredients
- 1 pound bulk pork sausage
- 2 8-ounce packages refrigerated crescent rolls
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- Spread half of the softened cream cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage and half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the cream cheese layer.
- Using the wax paper for assistance, roll the dough lengthwise into a tight log, encasing the filling. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap.
- Repeat the process with the second package of crescent rolls and the remaining ingredients to create a second log.
- Refrigerate the wrapped logs for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to slice.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Remove the logs from the refrigerator, unwrap them, and use a sharp knife to slice each log into 1/2-inch-thick pinwheels.
- Arrange the pinwheels on a baking sheet, leaving at least 1 inch of space between each.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Variations: Substitute pork sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for crispness.
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