Cheesy Sausage Pinwheels are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that combines savory sausage, creamy cheese, and flaky pastry. Perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit with everyone!

Ingredients List

For the Pinwheels

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 package (1 sheet) refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry

For Garnish (Optional)

• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Additional shredded cheese (for topping)

Timing

Preparing Cheesy Sausage Pinwheels takes about 15 minutes for prep, 15-20 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 35-40 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. Brown the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
2. Mix in Other Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

1. Roll Out Dough: If using crescent roll dough, unroll the dough and press the seams together to form a rectangle. If using puff pastry, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 4: Assemble the Pinwheels

1. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the sausage mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Roll Up: Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Make sure to roll it evenly to keep the filling inside.
3. Slice the Roll: Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough into 1-inch thick pinwheels.

Step 5: Bake the Pinwheels

1. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top of the pinwheels.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cheesy Sausage Pinwheels!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Cheesy Sausage Pinwheels (per pinwheel, assuming 24 pinwheels):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	130
Protein	6g
Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	5g
Fiber	0g

Tips for Customization

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a tangy flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the sausage mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for extra heat.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Cheesy Sausage Pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen before baking for up to 2 months. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Cheesy Sausage Pinwheels are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the flavors of sausage and cheese in a flaky pastry. Easy to make and packed with flavor, these pinwheels are perfect for any occasion!

FAQs

Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pinwheels and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use a different type of dough?

Absolutely! You can use phyllo dough, biscuit dough, or even homemade pastry if you prefer.

What can I serve with these pinwheels?

These pinwheels pair well with dipping sauces such as ranch, marinara, or a spicy mustard.