Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before using it.
In a big frying pan, cook the sausage on medium heat until it is brown and completely cooked, breaking it into small pieces while cooking. Remove extra grease.
In a bowl, mix the cooked sausage with cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is mixed together. If you are using cheddar cheese, mix it in at this point.
Open the tube of crescent roll dough and divide it into triangles.
Put a spoonful of the sausage mix on the wider part of each triangle and roll it towards the thinner end, pressing the edges together to close.
Put the croissants on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper.
Cover the tops with the beaten egg to make them shiny and golden.
Cook in the oven that has been preheated for 12-15 minutes or until the crescent rolls turn golden brown.
Let it cool a bit before serving.
Different Types and Advice
For a spicier flavor, you can use hot sausage or add a bit of crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage mix. You can also try different types of cheese, like pepper jack or mozzarella, to give your own personal touch. If you like, you can use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough for a flakier result.
For a tasty brunch twist, try adding some diced bell peppers or green onions to the filling for an extra tasty touch.
Here are some detailed variations you can try for the sausage and cream cheese-filled baked pastries:
Vegetable Medley: Sauté a mix of diced bell peppers, onions, and spinach before adding them to the sausage and cream cheese mixture. This adds color, flavor, and nutrition. Make sure to cook the vegetables until they’re tender to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Spicy Kick: If you want a spicier flavor, use hot pork sausage instead of mild. You can also add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for an extra kick.
Herbed Variation: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil into the sausage and cream cheese mixture. This will give the pastries a fragrant, savory flavor that complements the sausage well.
Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different types of cheese. Instead of cheddar, try using pepper jack for a spicy twist, or mozzarella for a milder, gooey filling. You can also mix in some crumbled feta for a tangy flavor.
Sweet Pastry: For a dessert version, replace the sausage with a sweet filling. Mix cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and fruit preserves (like raspberry or strawberry). Roll this mixture into the crescent dough and bake as directed for a sweet treat.
Asian-Inspired: Add some soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to the sausage mixture for an Asian twist. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking for added crunch and flavor.
Here are some tips to enhance your sausage and cream cheese-filled baked pastries:
Proper Sautéing: When sautéing vegetables, make sure to heat the pan before adding oil. This helps to sear the vegetables quickly, locking in their flavors and preventing them from becoming soggy.
Layering Techniques: If you’re using a pastry dough, ensure that you’re rolling it out evenly and cutting it into uniform pieces. This helps with even cooking and makes for a more professional-looking pastry.
Using Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and vegetables when possible. Fresh ingredients can significantly elevate the flavor of your dish.
Letting the Dish Rest: After baking, allow the pastries to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling set a bit, making them easier to handle and slice.
Egg Wash for Shine: For a beautiful golden-brown finish, brush the tops of your pastries with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a splash of water) before baking.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to try different spices in your filling. A pinch of nutmeg can add warmth, while garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the savory flavors.
To store your sausage and cream cheese-filled baked pastries, follow these steps:
Cool Down: Allow the pastries to cool completely at room temperature. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make them soggy.
Wrap Individually: Wrap each pastry individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to keep them fresh and prevents them from sticking together.
Use an Airtight Container: Place the wrapped pastries in an airtight container. If you have a vacuum sealer, that’s even better for preserving freshness.
Refrigeration: Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within a few days (up to 3-4 days).
Freezing for Longer Storage: If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze the pastries. They can typically be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps to restore their crispiness.
These storage tips will help keep your pastries tasty and fresh! Let me know if you need anything else.
