Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and just three ingredients.
Sweet & Spicy Flavor: The combination of creamy sausage, tangy cream cheese, and sweet-spicy pepper jelly is irresistible.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, brunch, parties, or game day snacks.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead of time and bake when ready—perfect for busy mornings or entertaining.
Customizable: Use different types of jelly or sausage to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Makes 12–15 bites
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (mild, hot, or sage-flavored)
- 8 oz block of cream cheese, softened and cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup pepper jelly (store-bought or homemade)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Form the Sausage Cups
- Divide the sausage into 12–15 equal portions (about 1–1.5 tablespoons each).
- Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a disc about 3 inches wide.
- Press each sausage disc into the bottom and up the sides of a greased muffin tin cavity or shape them into cups on the prepared baking sheet.
Add Cream Cheese
- Place a small cube of cream cheese into the center of each sausage cup.
Bake
- Bake the sausage cups for 15–20 minutes, or until the sausage is fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Add the Pepper Jelly
- Spoon a teaspoon of pepper jelly over the cream cheese in each sausage cup. The heat from the sausage will slightly melt the jelly, creating a gooey, flavorful topping.
Serve
- Serve warm as a hearty breakfast, brunch item, or appetizer.
Why This Recipe Works
Sausage Base: The savory, slightly spicy sausage provides a rich and flavorful foundation.
Cream Cheese Magic: The creamy, tangy cream cheese balances the sweetness of the jelly.
Pepper Jelly Kick: The jelly adds a sweet and spicy finish that ties everything together.
Variations to Try
Switch Up the Jelly: Use mango chutney, apricot preserves, or cranberry sauce instead of pepper jelly for a different flavor profile.
Add Cheese: Top the cream cheese with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra cheesiness.
Spice It Up: Use hot sausage or add red pepper flakes to the cream cheese for extra heat.
Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it safe for all dietary needs.
Mini Version: Use mini muffin tins to create smaller, bite-sized appetizers.
Tips for Success
Don’t Overfill: Keep the cream cheese and jelly portions small to prevent overflow during baking.
Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality sausage and pepper jelly for the best flavor.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Romantic Touch: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for elegance.
Brunch Staple: Pair with scrambled eggs, roasted potatoes, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
Party Platter: Arrange the bites on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving at gatherings.
Final Thoughts
These Pepper Jelly Sausage Breakfast Bites are a celebration of bold, balanced flavors, offering a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. With their sweet, spicy, and savory layers, they’re a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the sausage cups, cover them, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
What type of sausage works best? Breakfast sausage is ideal, but you can use Italian sausage or chorizo for a different flavor profile.
Can I freeze these? Yes! Bake them first, let them cool, and then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
What can I use instead of pepper jelly? Try honey, fruit preserves, or even hot sauce for a different twist.
How do I prevent the sausage from sticking to the pan? Grease your muffin tin well or use parchment paper to avoid sticking.