Introduction and Origin
The Sausage-Stuffed Puff Pastry is a warm, buttery appetizer or breakfast delight that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. A version of this dish, often made with crescent rolls, is widely popular across the U.S., especially in the South, where sausage and cream cheese combinations reign supreme. It takes humble ingredients and transforms them into a show-stopping bite, thanks to the magic of golden puff pastry.
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Cultural Significance
This recipe has gained fame through potlucks, brunch tables, game-day parties, and holiday breakfasts. Its popularity lies in its approachability and indulgent richness. Whether you call them crescent rolls or puff pastry bites, they embody the heart of American comfort food—easy, rich, and irresistibly satisfying. They also reflect the home-cooking culture that values recipes passed down, simplified, and loved by many generations.
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Ingredients Quantity (Serves 6–8 as appetizer/snack)
1 lb (450g) ground sausage (mild or spicy)
1 package (8 oz / 225g) cream cheese, softened
2 sheets puff pastry (or 2 cans crescent roll dough)
1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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Optional Additions
1/2 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese for extra cheesiness
1 tbsp chopped green onions or chives
A dash of crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for brightness
Everything bagel seasoning sprinkled on top for crunch
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Tips for Success
Drain excess fat from sausage after browning to avoid soggy pastry.
Let the sausage mixture cool before stuffing to prevent melting the dough.
Thaw puff pastry properly (about 30-40 minutes at room temp) but don’t let it get too soft.
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice evenly.
Seal edges well with a fork if making pastry pockets, or roll them tightly.
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Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
2. Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage with softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until creamy and fully blended. Add any optional ingredients here.
3. Prepare the Pastry:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut each into 6 rectangles or triangles (if using crescent dough).
4. Assemble:
Place 1–2 tablespoons of the sausage mixture in the center of each piece. Fold over (for rectangles, make pockets; for triangles, roll up like crescents). Pinch the edges to seal if needed.
5. Egg Wash & Bake:
Brush each piece with the beaten egg. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake:
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
7. Cool Slightly & Serve:
Let rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm as-is or with a dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard.
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Description of the Dish
Golden and crispy on the outside, rich, savory, and creamy on the inside, these stuffed pastries melt in your mouth. The contrast between the flaky pastry and the warm, seasoned sausage filling makes every bite satisfying. Ideal as an appetizer, brunch item, or grab-and-go snack.
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Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 2 pieces)
Calories: ~280
Protein: 9 g
Fat: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fiber: <1 g Sugars: 1 g Sodium: 450 mg --- Conclusion and Recommendation Sausage-Stuffed Puff Pastry is the kind of recipe that brings comfort, smiles, and a full belly. It’s perfect for holidays, parties, or easy meal prepping. You can double the batch and freeze the extras—they reheat beautifully! --- Embracing Healthful Indulgence To lighten it up: Use turkey or chicken sausage Try low-fat cream cheese Use whole-wheat puff pastry if available Pair with a fresh salad or serve with sliced veggies for balance You still get all the indulgence, but in a more mindful, balanced way.