Few things can rival the warm, golden aroma of freshly baked crescent rolls filled with a rich and savory surprise. Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are a beloved comfort food and crowd-pleaser that works perfectly as an appetizer, a party snack, or even a quick breakfast on the go. They combine flaky, buttery crescent roll dough with a creamy sausage filling that melts in your mouth. Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients, yet they deliver maximum flavor.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make these delicious rolls step by step, along with helpful tips for serving, storing, and customizing the filling to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want something indulgent for your family, these rolls will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make about 16 sausage cream cheese crescent rolls, gather the following ingredients:
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1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey, spicy or mild depending on your preference)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 rolls per can)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage Filling
Start by browning your sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks to ensure it blends evenly into the filling. Cook until there is no pink left and the sausage is golden brown. Drain any excess grease to prevent sogginess later.
Once drained, stir in the softened cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cream cheese is fully melted and coats the sausage. If you want a richer flavor, add shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle in garlic powder. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Open the crescent roll cans and separate the dough into individual triangles. Place them on a clean, flat surface or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Fill and Roll
Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the sausage-cream cheese mixture onto the widest part of each crescent triangle. Carefully roll the dough starting from the wide end toward the tip, encasing the filling inside. Pinch the edges slightly to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
4. Bake to Perfection
Arrange the filled rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them to allow for rising. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and puffed up.
5. Serve Warm
Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. They taste best when eaten warm, as the filling will be creamy and gooey, contrasting beautifully with the crisp, flaky dough.
Serving Ideas
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Breakfast or Brunch: Pair these rolls with scrambled eggs, fruit salad, and coffee for a hearty morning meal.
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Appetizers: Arrange them on a platter with a dipping sauce such as ranch, spicy mustard, or marinara.
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Game Day Snack: These rolls are perfect finger food for parties and gatherings—serve them alongside chips, wings, or nachos.
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Quick Dinner Side: Pair them with a bowl of soup or a fresh green salad for a simple but satisfying dinner.
Variations to Try
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some fun variations:
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Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add diced jalapeños to the filling for a little heat.
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Veggie-Friendly: Add finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the sausage mixture before baking.
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Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta for unique flavor twists.
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Mini Bites: Instead of rolling full crescents, cut the dough into smaller sections and make bite-sized versions, perfect for parties.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain their flaky texture better than microwaving.
You can also freeze baked rolls. Once cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
Tips for Success
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Don’t overfill the rolls: Too much filling may cause them to burst open during baking.
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Seal edges well: Pinching the seams ensures the filling stays inside the roll.
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Cool filling slightly: Hot filling can make the dough soft and harder to roll.
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Experiment with seasonings: Try Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or onion powder to change up the flavor.
Final Thoughts
Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are one of those recipes that prove delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. With minimal ingredients and only about 30 minutes of prep and bake time, you’ll have a tray of golden, savory rolls ready to enjoy. Their versatility makes them suitable for any occasion—holiday breakfasts, casual parties, or even a simple snack when you’re craving something hearty.
Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s such a classic favorite. The buttery crescent roll dough pairs perfectly with the creamy, savory sausage filling, making each bite a warm, satisfying indulgence. Whether you stick with the traditional version or experiment with fun variations, these rolls are guaranteed to disappear quickly from the plate.
