If you’ve ever dreamed of a melt-in-your-mouth appetizer that disappears the moment it hits the table, Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are about to become your new go-to wonder. Flaky, buttery crescent rolls wrap around a savory mixture of sausage and velvety cream cheese, making each bite a little parcel of pure comfort. This crowd-pleaser comes together with minimal effort and simple ingredients, yet the end result delivers big, bold flavor. Whether you’re whipping up brunch, planning game-day snacks, or looking to add some pizzazz to a holiday spread, Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents deliver indulgent flavor in every golden, cheesy crescent shape.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the beauties of Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents is how each simple ingredient does its part. From the richness of cream cheese to the flaky crescent dough, every element contributes to an unforgettable bite you’ll find yourself craving again and again.
- Breakfast sausage (1 pound): Use pork or turkey sausage for a meaty, flavorful filling—just be sure to crumble it as it browns for the best texture.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Softened cream cheese melts into the sausage for that signature creamy, decadent filling.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough (2 cans, 8 oz each): These lifesavers create perfectly flaky, golden layers that envelop the savory filling—no rolling pin required.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Just a touch brightens up the whole filling and adds a little zip to every bite.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle spice and rounds out the richness of the cream cheese and sausage.
- Green onions (1/4 cup, chopped, optional): Bright, fresh, and colorful—they add a subtle bite and beautiful specks of green.
- Egg (1, beaten, for egg wash – optional): Brushing the crescents before baking makes them turn irresistibly golden and glossy.
How to Make Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Station
Let’s get ready! Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This little prep step ensures your Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents pop off the pan without sticking and get that gorgeous even browning.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, add your sausage and cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, crumbling it up as you go. Taking the time to break it down into smaller pieces makes for the best texture inside each crescent. Drain off any excess grease when it’s done.
Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
Turn the heat to low and stir that magical softened cream cheese into the warm sausage. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, black pepper, and green onions if you’d like a fresh touch. Stir it all together until the mixture is creamy and fully combined, then remove the pan from the heat. The warmth melds everything into a luscious, savory filling!
Step 4: Fill and Roll the Crescents
Unroll your crescent dough and separate each triangle. Spoon about a tablespoon of the sausage and cheese mixture onto the wide end of each triangle. Starting at the filled end, roll up each piece toward the point, keeping the filling tucked in. This is the fun part—don’t worry if they’re not perfect, they’ll bake up beautifully no matter what!
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
Set your crescents on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. If you want that enticing golden glow, gently brush the tops with a bit of the beaten egg. It’s an optional step, but trust me, it’s worth it for those bakery-worthy results.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide those crescents into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until they’re puffed, golden, and just begging to be tasted. The kitchen will smell incredible, so be ready for people to start hovering!
How to Serve Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents
Garnishes
A final shower of sliced green onions or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley right out of the oven adds a pop of color and freshness to your Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents. You can also dust them with a pinch of extra black pepper for a little zing and an eye-catching finish.
Side Dishes
Since these crescents bring a rich, savory punch, they pair beautifully with light, crisp salads (think mixed greens or arugula), fruit trays, or even a bowl of fresh tomato soup. For a brunch spread, try adding scrambled eggs or a citrus salad to round things out.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile your Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents high on a platter lined with a pretty napkin for a warm, inviting look, or arrange them in concentric circles for a more refined display. Serve mini versions with festive toothpicks for parties, or tuck them into a basket to pass around at the breakfast table—watch them disappear!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, pop any leftover Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. They’ll hold onto their flavor and flaky texture, making them perfect for a quick snack or next-morning breakfast.
Freezing
Freeze baked crescents by first letting them cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a sheet pan, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to two months. When you need a satisfying bite in a flash, they’re ready to go!
Reheating
For best results, reheat Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents in a 350°F oven for 5 to 8 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp. The microwave works in a pinch (about 30 seconds), but you’ll lose a little of that flaky magic—so the oven is worth it if you can!
FAQs
Can I make Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage and cream cheese filling a day or two in advance and keep it in the fridge. That way, assembly takes just minutes when you’re ready to bake, making them perfect for stress-free entertaining or mornings on the go.
Do these work with gluten-free crescent dough?
Yes! If you or your guests follow a gluten-free diet, substitute store-bought gluten-free crescent roll dough. The results are a touch crumblier, but just as delicious and satisfying.
What kind of sausage is best for this recipe?
You can use classic pork breakfast sausage for big flavor, or swap in turkey sausage for a lighter version. If you like a little heat, try spicy sausage—just adjust the pepper accordingly!
Can I freeze unbaked Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents?
It’s best to freeze these after baking to keep the texture of the dough just right. If you must freeze them unbaked, expect that the texture will be a little different, but they’ll still be tasty after baking from frozen (give them a few extra minutes in the oven).
How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Press the edges of the crescent dough together as you roll, and be careful not to overfill each crescent—about one tablespoon is just right. Don’t stress if a bit escapes during baking; those crispy browned edges are actually a delicious bonus.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a no-fuss recipe that’s guaranteed to impress, give Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents a try. Whether you’re serving them at a party, tucking a couple onto a brunch plate, or just sneaking one straight off the pan, you’ll discover why they’re such a beloved classic. Happy baking!
