Sausage Pinwheels

These Sausage Pinwheels are an irresistible appetizer that will delight your guests at any gathering. With just four simple ingredients, they come together quickly and are perfect for parties, game days, or holiday celebrations. Their flaky, golden crust encases a savory filling of sausage and creamy cheese, making them a standout choice for finger foods.

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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 Pinwheels
• For Garnish
• How to Make Sausage Pinwheels
• Step 1: Cook the Sausage
• Step 2: Prepare the Dough
• Step 3: Add Cream Cheese
• Step 4: Layer Sausage and Cheese
• Step 5: Roll It Up
• Step 6: Repeat Process
• Step 7: Chill Logs
• Step 8: Preheat Oven
• Step 9: Slice Pinwheels
• Step 10: Bake
• Step 11: Serve
• How to Serve Sausage Pinwheels
• Pair with Dipping Sauces
• Create a Platter
• Cocktail Pairing
• 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
• What are Sausage Pinwheels?
• Can I use different types of cheese in Sausage Pinwheels?
• How do I customize my Sausage Pinwheels?
• How long do Sausage Pinwheels last?
• Are Sausage Pinwheels suitable for parties?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only four ingredients and minimal prep time, these pinwheels can be whipped up in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to more formal events.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of sausage and cheese offers a rich flavor that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the logs in advance and bake them just before serving, saving you time during busy gatherings.
• Customizable: Feel free to add other ingredients like herbs or spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A large skillet
• Wax paper
• Plastic wrap
• Sharp knife
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking sausage evenly and ensuring it’s browned perfectly.
• Wax paper: Helps in rolling the dough tightly without sticking, making it easier to handle.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when slicing the pinwheels, preserving their shape.

Ingredients

For the Pinwheels

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Sausage Pinwheels

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

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

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

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

Step 3: Add Cream Cheese

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

Step 4: Layer 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 wax paper for assistance, roll the dough lengthwise into a tight log to encase the filling. Wrap this log tightly in plastic wrap.

Step 6: Repeat Process

Repeat steps 2 through 5 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 (190°C).

Step 9: Slice Pinwheels

Remove logs from the refrigerator. Unwrap them and use a sharp knife to slice each log into 1/2-inch-thick pinwheels.

Step 10: Bake

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

Step 11: Serve

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

How to Serve Sausage Pinwheels

Sausage pinwheels are versatile appetizers that can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. Whether at a party or a casual gathering, these pinwheels can be served with various accompaniments to enhance their flavors.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Mustard Dip: A tangy mustard dip complements the savory sausage perfectly.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch adds a cool contrast that guests love.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, a dash of hot sauce elevates the flavor.

Create a Platter

• Cheese and Crackers: Arrange pinwheels alongside an assortment of cheeses and crackers for a complete snack spread.
• Vegetable Sticks: Fresh veggies like carrots and celery add crunch and color to your serving board.

Cocktail Pairing

• Beer: Light beers or ales pair well with the rich sausage flavors, making them great for game day.
• Wine: A fruity white wine can balance the richness of the cream cheese and sausage.

How to Perfect Sausage Pinwheels

To make your sausage pinwheels even better, follow these simple tips for perfect results every time.

• Chill the Dough: Keeping the crescent roll dough chilled makes it easier to handle and slice.
• Use Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality pork sausage for richer flavor in your pinwheels.
• Spread Evenly: Make sure to spread the cream cheese evenly for consistent flavor in each bite.
• Space Them Out: Leave enough space between each pinwheel on the baking sheet to prevent them from sticking together while baking.
• Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on them in the oven; remove when they reach a beautiful golden brown color.

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Best Side Dishes for Sausage Pinwheels

Sausage pinwheels pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to serve alongside these delicious bites.

1. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad adds a crisp, refreshing element to the meal.
2. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a hearty contrast to the lightness of the pinwheels.
3. Fruit Platter: An assortment of seasonal fruits offers sweetness that balances the savory notes.
4. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can be a filling side that enhances any gathering.
5. Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy slaw contrasts nicely with the richness of sausage pinwheels.
6. Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs add protein and are always a hit at parties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your sausage pinwheels from good to great. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Failing to cook the sausage properly: Ensure the sausage is fully cooked and browned before adding it to the dough. This enhances flavor and ensures food safety.
• Not sealing the crescent rolls well: If you don’t pinch the seams of the crescent rolls together, they may unravel during baking. Take your time to create a seamless sheet.
• Overfilling with ingredients: Adding too much filling can make rolling difficult and lead to leaks. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Skipping refrigeration before slicing: Chilling the rolled logs helps firm them up for easier slicing. Don’t skip this step or you’ll end up with uneven pinwheels.
• Neglecting oven space: Placing pinwheels too close on the baking sheet can cause them to stick together. Space them out to allow for even cooking and expansion.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sausage pinwheels in an airtight container.
• They will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Label your container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing Sausage Pinwheels

• Wrap unbaked logs tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating Sausage Pinwheels

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake pinwheels for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for 30-60 seconds, but be cautious as this may make them soggy.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, turning frequently until heated throughout.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Sausage Pinwheels?

Sausage pinwheels are bite-sized appetizers made by rolling sausage and cheese inside crescent dough, then baking until golden brown.

Can I use different types of cheese in Sausage Pinwheels?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.

How do I customize my Sausage Pinwheels?

You can add herbs, spices, or even vegetables like bell peppers or onions to enhance flavor and texture according to your taste preferences.

How long do Sausage Pinwheels last?

Properly stored, they will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months if frozen.

Are Sausage Pinwheels suitable for parties?

Yes! These appetizers are perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering due to their crowd-pleasing nature and ease of preparation.

Final Thoughts

Sausage pinwheels offer a delightful blend of savory flavors and flaky texture that makes them an irresistible appetizer. Their versatility allows for various customization options, making them ideal for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and impress your guests with these delicious bites!

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