Sausage and Cream Cheese-Filled Baked Pastries

There’s something truly comforting about warm, flaky pastries filled with a rich, creamy, and savory filling. These Sausage and Cream Cheese-Filled Baked Pastries are the perfect combination of buttery, golden-brown dough wrapped around a flavorful mixture of sausage and smooth cream cheese. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or as a satisfying snack, these pastries are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, making it a great option for both beginner and experienced cooks. With minimal prep time and easy-to-find ingredients, you can have a batch of these warm, cheesy pastries ready in under 30 minutes. The filling combines perfectly seasoned sausage with creamy cheese, creating a delightful contrast to the crisp, flaky pastry.

If you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to impress your family or guests, these baked pastries are the answer. Serve them fresh from the oven with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a light salad for a complete meal. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe special and how you can make it your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy to Prepare – A simple, no-fuss recipe that comes together in just a few steps.
Rich and Satisfying – The combination of seasoned sausage and creamy cheese creates an irresistible filling.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve them for breakfast, brunch, appetizers, or a hearty snack.

Customizable – Swap the cheese, add spices, or try a different dough for a unique twist.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare the filling ahead of time for a quick assembly when needed.

Ingredients

To make these Sausage and Cream Cheese-Filled Baked Pastries, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that work together to create a rich and flavorful filling wrapped in crispy pastry.

For the Filling:

1/2 lb ground beef sausage – Provides a savory, well-seasoned base.
4 oz cream cheese, softened – Adds a smooth and creamy texture to the filling.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the depth of flavor.

1/4 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the sausage and cheese.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) – Adds a subtle smoky flavor.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat) – A touch of spice for those who like a little kick.
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella for a milder flavor) – Melts beautifully and adds extra richness.
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional) – Provides a fresh, slightly sharp contrast.

For the Pastry:

1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough – Convenient and easy to work with.
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) – Helps create a golden, glossy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure your oven is fully heated before baking.
Cook the sausage: In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns. Cook until no pink remains. Drain excess grease to prevent a greasy filling.
Season the filling: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and crushed red pepper flakes (if desired). Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly.
Incorporate the cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Stir in the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well combined and creamy. If using green onions, mix them in at this stage.
Set aside: Let the mixture cool for a few minutes while you prepare the dough.

Step 2: Assemble the Pastries

Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a lightly floured surface. If using puff pastry, cut it into squares.
Separate into triangles (or keep squares for puff pastry).
Spoon the filling onto the wide end of each triangle (or the center of each square). Be sure not to overfill, as the dough needs to seal properly.
Roll the dough:

For crescent rolls, start at the wide end and roll toward the tip.
For puff pastry, fold the squares diagonally into triangles and press the edges with a fork to seal.

Place the pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they have space to expand while baking.
Brush with egg wash for a shiny, golden-brown finish.

Step 3: Bake

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and flaky.
Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Tips for the Best Pastries

For Extra Flakiness: Use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough. It creates a crispier, more delicate texture.
Make it Spicier: Add diced jalapeños, extra red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
Cheese Variations: Try Monterey Jack, Swiss, or a smoky Gouda for a unique twist.
Meal Prep Option: Cook and store the filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake when ready.

Substitutions and Variations

Different Protein: Swap beef sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a meat-free alternative.
Dough Options: Instead of crescent rolls, use biscuit dough, homemade pastry, or even phyllo dough for a different texture.
Breakfast Twist: Add scrambled eggs into the filling for a more filling breakfast pastry.

Serving Suggestions

These Sausage and Cream Cheese-Filled Baked Pastries are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

As a Breakfast or Brunch Item: Serve with fresh fruit or a side of scrambled eggs.
With Dipping Sauces: Try honey mustard, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo for extra flavor.
Alongside a Light Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.
For a Party or Gathering: Arrange on a platter for a warm, cheesy appetizer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled pastries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Can I freeze them?

Absolutely! Freeze unbaked pastries on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What other fillings can I try?

Try a mix of cream cheese and spinach, shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, or even a sweet version with fruit preserves and cream cheese.

Conclusion

These Sausage and Cream Cheese-Filled Baked Pastries are the perfect blend of crispy, buttery pastry and creamy, savory filling. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as an appetizer, or a quick snack, they’re guaranteed to impress. The best part? They’re easy to customize, so you can experiment with different flavors to make them your own.

Try this recipe today, and enjoy a warm, flaky bite of cheesy goodness!