Who doesn’t love a warm, flaky, and savory treat fresh out of the oven? Sausage Crescent Rolls are the perfect combination of buttery, golden-brown crescent dough wrapped around flavorful, seasoned sausage—making them an absolute favorite for breakfast, brunch, appetizers, or even a quick snack.
This guide covers everything you need to know about making the best sausage crescent rolls, from ingredient choices and step-by-step instructions to creative variations and storage tips. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this article will help you master this crowd-pleaser with ease. Let’s dive right in!
Introduction to Sausage Crescent Rolls
What Are Sausage Crescent Rolls?
Sausage Crescent Rolls are a simple yet delicious dish made by rolling seasoned sausage (often cooked and crumbled) into flaky crescent roll dough and baking it until golden brown. They’re often served as a breakfast or brunch favorite, but they can also double as appetizers or party snacks. The best part? They require minimal ingredients and are incredibly easy to prepare!
The Popularity of This Savory Treat
Why are sausage crescent rolls so beloved? First, they’re versatile—you can tweak the ingredients to suit different dietary preferences, from cheesy variations to spicy twists. Secondly, they offer the perfect balance of textures and flavors: crisp, buttery crescent dough wrapped around juicy, flavorful sausage. Lastly, they’re incredibly convenient. You can make them ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and pop them in the oven when you need a quick meal or snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you haven’t tried making sausage crescent rolls before, here’s why you’ll love them:
– Quick and easy to prepare, with just a handful of ingredients.
– Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a game-day snack.
– Easily customizable—add cheese, spices, or different sausage varieties.
– Kid-friendly and great for picky eaters.
– Make-ahead and freezer-friendly for busy mornings.
Ingredients and Substitutions for the Best Sausage Crescent Rolls
Essential Ingredients
To make Sausage Crescent Rolls, you’ll only need a few basic ingredients:
- Crescent roll dough – The flaky, buttery layers come from pre-made crescent roll dough, typically found in refrigerated grocery sections.
- Breakfast sausage – A mild or spicy pork sausage works best, but you can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
- Cream cheese (optional) – This adds a creamy texture and richness to the filling.
- Shredded cheese – Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack take the flavor up a notch.
- Seasonings – Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, or even Italian seasoning enhance the taste.
Best Sausage Choices for Flavor
Your choice of sausage makes all the difference! Classic pork breakfast sausage provides a juicy, savory bite. If you love spice, go for a hot Italian sausage. Want something lighter? Turkey or chicken sausage works great, too. Vegetarian sausage crumbles can even be used for a meat-free version.
Alternative Ingredients and Dietary Adjustments
If you’re looking for substitutions, here are some easy swaps:
✔️ Low-carb option – Use keto-friendly crescent dough or wrap the sausage in almond flour dough.
✔️ Dairy-free version – Skip the cream cheese and shredded cheese or use plant-based alternatives.
✔️ Gluten-free choice – Opt for gluten-free crescent dough, now widely available in stores.
From classic to customized, the right ingredients help you craft sausage crescent rolls that suit your taste and dietary needs. Now, let’s move on to actually making them in Part 3!
How to Make Sausage Crescent Rolls Step-by-Step
Preparing the Sausage Filling
First, cook your breakfast sausage over medium heat until it’s fully browned and crumbly. If you’re adding cream cheese, stir it in while the sausage is warm—it’ll melt beautifully and create a creamy, flavorful filling. Let it cool slightly before assembling your rolls.
Rolling and Baking Techniques for Flaky Crescent Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into individual triangles.
- Spoon the sausage filling onto the wider end of each triangle. If using shredded cheese, sprinkle it over the sausage.
- Roll the dough tightly from the wide end to the narrow tip, sealing the edges slightly.
- Place on a baking sheet, seam-side down, leaving some space between each roll.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
- Let them cool slightly before serving—hot fillings can burn your mouth!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overstuffing the dough – Too much filling will make rolling difficult and cause leaks.
- Not sealing the edges – Lightly pressing the dough’s seams helps prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Baking at too low a temperature – Crescent rolls need high heat to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Skipping the parchment paper – Lining your baking sheet prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
Variations and Flavor Twists on Sausage Crescent Rolls
Cheesy Sausage Crescent Rolls
If you’re a cheese lover, adding an extra cheesy twist to Sausage Crescent Rolls is a must! Simply mix shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack into the sausage filling before rolling it up. This creates a gooey, melty center that pairs perfectly with the buttery crescent dough. For an even cheesier kick, sprinkle Parmesan on top before baking.
Spicy and Herb-Infused Variations
Want to turn up the heat? Swap regular sausage for spicy Italian or chorizo. Adding crushed red pepper, cayenne, or jalapeños to the filling will bring a bold, fiery kick. You can also enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a fragrant and savory touch.
Vegetarian and Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking for a meat-free option, swap traditional sausage for plant-based alternatives or sautéed mushrooms and spinach. To make a healthier version, use turkey or chicken sausage, low-fat cheese, and whole wheat crescent roll dough. These swaps lighten the dish while keeping it delicious!
With so many creative ways to customize Sausage Crescent Rolls, there’s a version for everyone. Now, let’s explore how to serve them for different occasions in Part 5!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Best Dips and Sauces for Sausage Crescent Rolls
Dips take Sausage Crescent Rolls to the next level! Here are a few top picks:
✔️ Honey mustard – A sweet and tangy contrast to the savory sausage.
✔️ Marinara sauce – Perfect for an Italian-style twist.
✔️ Spicy sriracha mayo – Adds a creamy heat.
✔️ Cheese sauce – Because you can never have too much cheese!
Side Dishes That Complement This Appetizer
While Sausage Crescent Rolls are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right side makes for a complete meal. Try serving them with:
- Fresh fruit or a simple salad for a balanced breakfast.
- Scrambled eggs or hash browns for a hearty brunch.
- Vegetable sticks and dip for a light and casual snack.
How to Serve for Breakfast, Brunch, or Snacks
These crescent rolls fit any occasion! Serve them warm with coffee or tea for breakfast, alongside eggs and bacon for brunch, or as a bite-sized snack for game days and parties. They’re a guaranteed hit no matter how you serve them.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Freshness
How to Store Leftovers Properly
If you have extra Sausage Crescent Rolls, don’t worry—they store well and taste just as good later! To keep them fresh:
- Refrigerate: Place cooled rolls in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, wrap each roll in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Proper storage prevents sogginess and maintains the rolls’ flaky texture.
Best Ways to Reheat Without Losing Flakiness
Reheating Sausage Crescent Rolls the right way keeps them crispy and delicious. Here’s how:
✔️ Oven (best method) – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes. This keeps them crispy.
✔️ Air Fryer – Set to 350°F and reheat for 5 minutes for a quick, crunchy bite.
✔️ Microwave (for speed) – Heat for 30 seconds, but be aware they may become soft.
Can You Freeze Sausage Crescent Rolls?
Yes! Freezing works great for meal prep. Simply thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. If reheating straight from frozen, use the oven at 325°F for 15 minutes to avoid a soggy texture.
For more cookie inspiration, check out our recipe for chocolate chip cookie.
Health and Nutrition Information
Caloric and Nutritional Breakdown
Wondering about the nutrition in Sausage Crescent Rolls? Here’s an estimate per roll (without cheese or extra fillings):
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 7-10gSausage Crescent Rolls
- Carbs: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-18g
The exact values depend on ingredients like sausage type, cheese, and dough brand.
Are Sausage Crescent Rolls a Healthy Choice?
While they’re a tasty treat, Sausage Crescent Rolls are not the healthiest option due to their high fat and carb content. However, there are ways to make them healthier:
✔️ Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork to cut down on fat.
✔️ Choose reduced-fat crescent roll dough for fewer calories.
✔️ Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Healthier Ingredient Swaps
If you love Sausage Crescent Rolls but want a lighter version, try these swaps:
- Whole wheat crescent dough for added fiber.
- Low-fat cheese to reduce calories.
- Plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
With simple modifications, you can enjoy a healthier version of this classic dish!
FAQs About Sausage Crescent Rolls
What is the Flavor of Breakfast Sausage?
Breakfast sausage is known for its savory, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy flavor. It typically includes seasonings like salt, black pepper, sage, and sometimes a hint of brown sugar or maple. This unique blend creates the perfect balance of spicy and sweet, making it a great filling for Sausage Crescent Rolls.
If you prefer a stronger kick, opt for spicy sausage with red pepper flakes or cayenne. For a milder taste, turkey or chicken sausage offers a lighter flavor while still delivering that classic breakfast sausage experience.
How Healthy Are Pillsbury Crescent Rolls?
Pillsbury crescent rolls are a convenient and delicious choice, but they are not the healthiest option. They contain refined flour, saturated fats, and preservatives to maintain their soft, flaky texture. A single crescent roll has about 100 calories, 5 grams of fat, and 12 grams of carbs.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider whole wheat or reduced-fat crescent roll dough. You can also make homemade crescent dough using simple, natural ingredients like whole wheat flour, olive oil, and Greek yogurt.
How Long Is a Roll of Breakfast Sausage Good For?
Proper storage is key to keeping breakfast sausage fresh. Here’s a quick guide:
- Unopened sausage: Lasts up to 2 weeks in the fridge if within the expiration date.
- Opened sausage: Stays fresh for 3-5 days when refrigerated properly.
- Frozen sausage: Can be stored for up to 2 months for best quality.
Always check for off smells, discoloration, or a slimy texture—these are signs that the sausage has gone bad.
How to Cook a Roll of Breakfast Sausage?
Cooking breakfast sausage is simple:
- Slice the roll into patties or cook it whole.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the sausage in the pan.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until browned and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C)).
- Drain excess grease before using it in Sausage Crescent Rolls.
Cooking sausage properly ensures a flavorful, juicy filling for your rolls.
Now that we’ve covered these common questions, let’s wrap up with final tips in Part 9!
Conclusion and Final Tips
Why Sausage Crescent Rolls Are a Must-Try Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing dish, Sausage Crescent Rolls are a must-try! They offer a perfect balance of buttery, flaky dough and savory, seasoned sausage, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even party appetizers. Plus, with so many variations, you can customize them to fit your taste.
Final Tips for Perfect Crescent Rolls Every Time
To ensure your Sausage Crescent Rolls turn out flaky, golden, and delicious, follow these final tips:
✔️ Don’t overstuff – Too much filling can make them hard to roll and cause leaks.
✔️ Preheat the oven properly – This helps achieve a crisp, golden crust.
✔️ Seal the edges well – Lightly pinch the dough together to prevent spills.
✔️ Experiment with flavors – Try different cheeses, herbs, or sausage types for a unique twist.
Encouraging Experimentation with Different Flavors
The beauty of Sausage Crescent Rolls is their versatility. Whether you love them cheesy, spicy, or with a healthy twist, you can always experiment with different fillings and flavors.
Now that you have all the tips, variations, and storage tricks, it’s time to grab your ingredients and start baking. Enjoy your homemade Sausage Crescent Rolls!