Description
Sausage and Cheese Crescent Ring
Ingredients:
1 lb breakfast sausage
1 package refrigerated crescent rolls
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese
1/4 cup diced onions
(optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Sausage: In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using onions, sauté them with the sausage. Once cooked, drain the excess fat and set aside.
Prepare the Crescent Rolls: Unroll the crescent rolls on a baking sheet, forming a ring shape, with the wide ends facing out. You should have a space in the middle to fill with the sausage mixture.
Make the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese and cheddar cheese, mixing until well combined.
Assemble the Ring: Spread the cheese mixture on the crescent rolls in the center of the ring. Add the cooked sausage mixture on top of the cheese. Then fold the edges of the crescent rolls over the filling, creating a ring shape.
Bake: Bake the sausage and cheese ring in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, allow it to cool slightly, then cut into slices and serve!
This delicious ring is savory, cheesy, and perfect for sharing!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook the breakfast sausage (and optional diced onions) until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly. 3. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar until a cohesive mixture forms. 4. Unroll the crescent dough and separate the triangles. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet in a circle, with the wide ends overlapping in the center and the points facing outward, creating a sun shape with a 5-inch open circle in the middle. 5. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the wide ends of the dough in the center. Top evenly with the cooked sausage mixture. 6. Carefully fold the pointed ends of each triangle over the filling, tucking them under the wide inner base to secure the ring. 7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent dough is puffed and deep golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile ring is perfect for brunch, game day, or a quick dinner. Serve it warm, sliced into portions. For brunch, pair it with fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or a light salad. As an appetizer or party snack, offer dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo on the side. It also makes a satisfying main course when served with roasted vegetables or a hearty soup.
How-to Summary
To make the Sausage and Cheese Crescent Ring, cook and drain sausage, then mix cheddar and cream cheese. Arrange crescent triangles in a circle on a baking sheet. Spread the cheese blend, then the sausage over the wide inner ends of the dough. Fold the dough points over the filling and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the ring, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Can I use a different type of sausage? Absolutely. Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based crumble work well. Adjust seasoning as needed.
My ring is browning too quickly. What should I do? If the crust is browning before the center is hot, loosely tent the ring with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.
Can I add other ingredients? Definitely. Diced bell peppers, jalapeños, spinach, or mushrooms are excellent additions. Sauté vegetables with the sausage to remove excess moisture.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in an air fryer or oven at 350°F until warm and crispy for best results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using cold cream cheese, as it will be difficult to mix and spread. Let it soften at room temperature first. Do not overfill the ring, as this can cause the dough to tear and filling to spill during baking. Ensure the sausage is well-drained after cooking; excess grease can make the dough soggy. Finally, do not skip the parchment paper, as it prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Conclusion
The Sausage and Cheese Crescent Ring is a reliably impressive and delicious dish that combines simplicity with crowd-pleasing flavor. With its flaky crust, savory sausage, and creamy cheese filling, it’s a guaranteed hit for any casual gathering. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and adapt it to your taste. It’s the perfect proof that minimal effort can yield maximum delicious results.