Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Let’s be honest—there’s just something magical about an appetizer that looks fancy but takes hardly any effort. These Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels are the definition of crowd-pleasers. Buttery crescent dough, creamy cheese, flavorful sausage, and a little zing from Rotel all rolled into one golden, flaky bite? Oh yes. They’re the kind of snack that disappears off the plate faster than you can set them down.
They’re perfect for game days, holiday gatherings, or even as a fun little side to spice up weeknight dinners. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them again and again.

Recipe Origin

This recipe is one of those happy kitchen accidents that turns into a forever favorite. It’s a twist on the classic sausage balls but with the creaminess of cheese and the ease of crescent dough. Imagine the flavors of a cheesy sausage dip—but baked into bite-sized pinwheels. That’s where the magic lies.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• A skillet (to cook the sausage)
• A mixing bowl
• A spatula or spoon
• A baking sheet
• Parchment paper (to make cleanup a breeze)
• A sharp knife (for slicing your pinwheels evenly)

Why You’ll Love Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Versatile

These little bites work for breakfast, brunch, appetizers, or snacks. You can serve them warm out of the oven or even at room temperature.

Budget-Friendly

Everything here is made with simple, affordable ingredients—crescent dough, sausage, cream cheese, and Rotel. Nothing fancy, but oh-so-satisfying.

Quick and Easy

With just a handful of steps, you’ll have a tray of pinwheels ready to bake. They’re perfect when you want something impressive without the fuss.

Customizable

Want them spicier? Use hot sausage or spicy Rotel. Prefer milder? Stick to regular sausage and mild tomatoes. You can totally make them your own.

Crowd-Pleasing

Flaky, cheesy, savory goodness in every bite—kids and adults both go wild for these.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Drain your Rotel really well: Excess liquid will make the filling soggy.
• Soften the cream cheese: This makes mixing easier and ensures the filling is smooth and creamy.
• Don’t overstuff: Too much filling makes them harder to roll. Keep it balanced.
• Chill before slicing: Pop the filled dough in the fridge for 15 minutes—it makes cutting the pinwheels clean and easy.
• Use parchment paper: Saves cleanup and helps prevent sticking.

Ingredients in Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Breakfast Sausage: The hearty, savory base of the filling. Choose mild or spicy depending on your taste.
Italian Seasoning: Adds a fragrant, herby flavor that ties everything together.
Cream Cheese: Soft, creamy, and rich—it balances the savory sausage perfectly.
Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies: Brings a zesty, slightly spicy kick to the filling.
Crescent Dough Sheets: The buttery, flaky wrap that turns everything into golden little spirals of deliciousness.

Instructions

Cook the Sausage: In a skillet, cook and crumble your breakfast sausage until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and well-drained Rotel. Stir until everything is smooth and evenly combined.
Prepare the Dough: Roll out one crescent dough sheet on parchment paper.
Spread the Filling: Evenly spread half of the sausage mixture over the dough.
Roll It Up: Starting on the long side, roll the dough into a tight log. Repeat with the second sheet and remaining filling.
Chill and Slice: Place the logs in the fridge for 15 minutes (optional but helps). Slice into ½-inch pinwheels.
Bake: Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy: Best served warm, right out of the oven.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: About 24 pinwheels
Calories per serving: ~110
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes

How to Serve Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Appetizer Platter: Pair with fresh veggies, dips, or other small bites.
Game Day Snack: Serve with ranch, marinara, or even queso for dipping.
Breakfast Treat: These make an amazing grab-and-go breakfast.
Party Buffet: Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead: Assemble, roll, and refrigerate overnight. Slice and bake the next day.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, or microwave briefly.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked logs, then slice and bake from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Variations to Try

Spicy Kick: Use hot sausage and spicy Rotel.
Cheesy Boost: Add shredded cheddar or pepper jack to the filling.
Vegetarian Twist: Swap sausage with sautéed mushrooms and onions.
Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning and top with a little salsa.
Breakfast Special: Use maple sausage for a sweet-and-savory combo.

Additional Tips

Prep extra logs and freeze for quick, no-stress entertaining.
If you want crispier bottoms, bake directly on the baking sheet (no parchment).
Brush the tops with a little egg wash before baking for a glossy finish.
Serve with a variety of dips to make them even more fun.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use crescent rolls instead of dough sheets?
A1: Yes! Just pinch the seams together to make a solid sheet.
Q2: Do I have to use Rotel?
A2: Nope—any diced tomatoes (drained) work, but Rotel gives the best flavor.
Q3: Can I make these vegetarian?
A3: Yes—sub in seasoned veggies or a plant-based sausage alternative.
Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
A4: Definitely. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Absolutely—these are great for feeding a crowd.
Q6: How do I keep the pinwheels from unrolling?
A6: Roll tightly and slice with a sharp knife. Chilling the log helps too.
Q7: What dips go best with them?
A7: Ranch, marinara, queso, or even honey mustard!
Q8: Can I serve them cold?
A8: They’re best warm, but still tasty at room temp.
Q9: Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
A9: Not if you use parchment paper. If baking directly, yes.
Q10: How long can I store unbaked logs?
A10: Up to 24 hours in the fridge before baking.

Conclusion

These Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels are little bites of comfort wrapped in golden, buttery pastry. They’re savory, creamy, and just a little zesty—everything you could want in an easy appetizer. Whether you’re making them for a party, a game night, or just to have something fun in the fridge, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.
And the best part? They’re simple enough to whip up anytime but special enough to impress every single time. So go ahead—roll, slice, bake, and watch them disappear.

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