Sausage & Cream Cheese Bites

This hearty sausage and cream cheese filling wrapped in golden crescent dough creates the perfect bite-sized appetizer that disappears at every gathering I host. The savory sausage combined with creamy cheese encased in flaky pastry delivers an irresistible combination that keeps everyone coming back for more.

I first made these for a Super Bowl party when I needed something substantial but easy to eat while watching the game. They were such a hit that guests started calling ahead to make sure I would be making my famous sausage bites before committing to attend future gatherings.

• Crescent rolls: provide the perfect flaky exterior that bakes to golden perfection while sealing in all the delicious filling
• Cream cheese: creates a creamy tangy base that mellows the sausage flavor and provides luxurious texture
• Jimmy Dean sausage: offers consistent flavor and quality making it my go to for guaranteed results
• Diced onion: adds aromatic depth and slight sweetness that enhances the savory elements
• Garlic powder: infuses the mixture with classic flavor that complements both the sausage and cream cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

Cook the sausage with diced onion and garlic powder in a saucepan until thoroughly cooked through. Take your time breaking up the sausage into small pieces as you cook to ensure even distribution in the final bites. Drain the fat completely and allow to cool slightly before the next step to prevent melting the cream cheese too quickly.

Create the Creamy Mixture:

Add room temperature cream cheese to the cooled sausage mixture and stir until completely incorporated. The warmth from the sausage will help soften the cream cheese making it easier to blend. Ensure no white streaks remain to get consistent flavor in every bite. Set aside while you prepare the dough.

Prepare the Dough:

Open the first container of crescent rolls and carefully separate along perforations. Cut each triangle in half to create two smaller triangles. This sizing creates the perfect proportion of filling to dough. Work with one package at a time to prevent the dough from warming and becoming too sticky.

Fill and Shape:

Place a teaspoon of the sausage cream cheese mixture in the center of each small triangle. Bring the three points of the dough up and around the filling pinching firmly to seal completely. Ensure no filling is exposed to prevent leaking during baking. The dough should completely encase the filling.

Bake to Perfection:

Arrange the filled dough balls on a cookie sheet approximately 1 inch apart to allow room for expansion. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 11 to 14 minutes or until the crescents turn a beautiful golden brown. The filling is already cooked so you only need to focus on achieving the perfect pastry color.

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The addition of onion in this recipe is something I never skip. After experimenting with versions without it I discovered that the slight sweetness from sautéed onion creates a perfect counterbalance to the rich sausage and tangy cream cheese. My grandmother actually taught me this trick when making her famous sausage balls and it makes all the difference.

Make Ahead Magic

These sausage and cream cheese bites are perfect for busy hosts who need to prepare in advance. Simply prepare the filling and assemble the bites the day before then refrigerate them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap. When ready to serve just pop them in the preheated oven and add 2 to 3 extra minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled dough. The flavors actually develop nicely overnight making them even more delicious.

Dipping Sauce Pairings

While these bites are delicious on their own they truly shine when paired with complementary dipping sauces. Try a maple syrup drizzle for a sweet and savory combination that highlights the sausage flavors. Pepper jelly offers a sweet heat contrast that many guests love. For a tangier option mix equal parts Dijon mustard and honey for a sophisticated accompaniment that cuts through the richness of the cream cheese.

Creative Variations

The basic recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different flavor profiles. Try using spicy breakfast sausage and adding a pinch of cayenne for heat lovers. For an Italian twist substitute Italian sausage and mix in 1/4 cup of grated parmesan and 1 tablespoon of Italian herbs into the cream cheese. Vegetarian guests can enjoy a version made with plant based sausage crumbles and dairy free cream cheese that delivers similar texture and satisfaction.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I make these Sausage & Cream Cheese Bites ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these bites a day ahead by cooking the sausage mixture with cream cheese, wrapping in crescent dough, placing them on a cookie sheet without touching, and refrigerating covered until ready to bake. When ready to serve, bake in a preheated 375°F oven for about 14 minutes until golden brown.

→ What dipping sauces work well with these bites?

Maple syrup drizzle is mentioned in the recipe, but these versatile bites would also pair well with honey mustard, ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or even a sweet chili sauce depending on your preference.

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Jimmy Dean sausage, you can substitute with Italian sausage, breakfast sausage, or even a plant-based alternative. Just ensure it's cooked thoroughly before mixing with the cream cheese.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving is possible but may make the crescent dough slightly soggy.

→ Can I freeze these sausage and cream cheese bites?

Yes, you can freeze them either before or after baking. For unbaked bites, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. For baked bites, freeze and then reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

→ How can I make these bites spicy?

To add heat, you can use hot sausage instead of regular, add diced jalapeños to the filling mixture, incorporate red pepper flakes, or use a spicy cream cheese. You could also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce.