Make-Ahead Sausage Pinwheels

INTRODUCTION

Make-Ahead Sausage Pinwheels are a delicious and easy appetizer that everyone loves. These pinwheels are perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings. They are simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your event without stress. With a tasty filling of sausage, cream cheese, and veggies wrapped in flaky crescent dough, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this recipe for several reasons. First, the flavors blend perfectly together. The savory sausage pairs well with the creamy cheese and vibrant veggies. Second, these pinwheels are versatile. You can serve them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and they make a great snack. Third, they are super easy to make. Even if you are not an experienced cook, you can whip these up without any trouble. Finally, you can prepare them in advance and freeze them, so they are always ready to bake when you need them.

HOW TO MAKE Make-Ahead Sausage Pinwheels

Making Make-Ahead Sausage Pinwheels is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create this tasty treat.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Before you start, gather these kitchen tools:

• A large skillet
• A mixing bowl
• A chopping board
• A sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Waxed paper
• Parchment paper
• A baking sheet

Ingredients You’ll Need :

• 1 pound bulk regular or spicy pork sausage
• 1/2 cup diced sweet red pepper
• 1 green onion, chopped
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cubed
• 2 tubes (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent rolls

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :

1. Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, cook and crumble the sausage over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes or until it is no longer pink. Make sure to drain any excess grease.

2. Add veggies: Stir in the diced sweet red pepper and chopped green onion. Cook and stir for an additional 2 minutes until the veggies are slightly tender.

3. Cool the mixture: Transfer the sausage mixture to a mixing bowl and let it cool for about 10 minutes.

4. Mix in cream cheese: Once the mixture is cool, add the cubed cream cheese. Stir until everything is well blended and set it aside to cool completely.

5. Prepare the crescent dough: Unroll 1 can of crescent dough on a flat surface. Separate it into 4 rectangles and pinch the perforations to seal them. Press each rectangle down to create a shape that is 6×4-1/2 inches.

6. Spread filling: Spread 1/3 cup of the sausage filling on each rectangle, making sure to leave about 1/4 inch at the edges.

7. Roll them up: Starting from the short side, roll up each rectangle jelly-roll style. Pinch the seams to seal them well. Roll gently to make smooth logs.

8. Freeze them: Place the logs seam side down on a baking sheet lined with waxed paper. Repeat the process with the remaining crescent dough. Cover and freeze the logs until firm, about 1 hour.

9. Preheat the oven: When you are ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

10. Slice and bake: Take the logs out of the freezer and cut each log into 10 equal slices. Place the slices on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake until golden brown, which should take about 15-18 minutes.

11. Serve warm: Once baked, let them cool slightly and then serve warm for best taste.

HOW TO SERVE Make-Ahead Sausage Pinwheels

You can serve Make-Ahead Sausage Pinwheels warm and fresh from the oven. They are delicious on their own but can also be paired with your favorite dipping sauces. Popular choices include ranch dressing, mustard, or hot sauce. Feel free to arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Make-Ahead Sausage Pinwheels

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze them, make sure they are tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy them, simply remove them from the freezer and bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

These pinwheels make a wonderful appetizer or snack. You can serve them at family gatherings, birthday parties, or game nights. They are also great for brunch alongside eggs or other finger foods. Consider serving them with a platter of fresh fruits or vegetables for a healthy addition.

VARIATIONS

You can get creative with this recipe by adding or changing ingredients. Here are some variations you might like:

• Cheese: You can mix in shredded cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Spices: Add spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning for an added kick.
• Vegetarian option: Use a meat substitute or well-cooked vegetables like mushrooms and spinach instead of sausage to make them vegetarian.
• Different peppers: Use other types of peppers like jalapeños for a spicier flavor or bell peppers in different colors.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of sausage such as turkey sausage or chicken sausage. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance, freeze them, and bake them when you are ready to serve.

How do I know when the pinwheels are done baking?

The pinwheels are ready when they are golden brown on top. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach 165 degrees F.

Can I reheat the pinwheels?

Yes! You can reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees F for a few minutes until they are warmed through. You can also use a microwave for a quicker option.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Make-Ahead Sausage Pinwheels

To make the process even easier, consider prepping the filling the day before. Simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Additionally, you can roll and shape the pinwheels in the evening, then freeze them overnight. This way, you will have a delicious and easy appetizer ready to bake anytime you need. Enjoy your Make-Ahead Sausage Pinwheels at your next gathering!

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