Description
Sausage and Cream Cheese Croissants
Ingredients:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1/2 lb breakfast sausage
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. Drain excess fat and mix with cream cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper. Roll out the puff pastry and cut into triangles. Spoon the sausage mixture onto the wider end of each triangle and roll up into a croissant shape. Place on the baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect croissants every time.
- Prep & Cook Filling: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet. In a skillet, thoroughly cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain all excess fat and transfer to a bowl. Let it cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Mix Filling: Add the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper to the slightly cooled sausage. Mix vigorously until fully combined and creamy.
- Shape Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to smooth any seams. Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the sheet into 6 equal squares, then cut each square diagonally to create 12 triangles.
- Fill & Roll: Place a heaping tablespoon of the sausage mixture onto the wider end of a triangle. Gently stretch the dough slightly as you roll it up toward the pointed tip. Place the croissant seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Repeat for all triangles.
- Bake: Brush each croissant generously with the beaten egg wash. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastries are deeply golden brown and puffed. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These savory pastries are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm as a standout appetizer at parties with a side of spicy mustard or ranch for dipping. For a hearty breakfast or brunch, pair them with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. They also make a fantastic on-the-go lunch alongside a simple garden salad.
How-to Summary
Thaw pastry. Brown and drain sausage, then mix with cream cheese and seasonings. Cut pastry into triangles, fill, and roll into crescents. Brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes until golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the uncooked croissants, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 extra minutes.
Can I use a different meat? Absolutely. Ground chicken, turkey sausage, or even chopped ham are excellent substitutes. Ensure any raw meat is fully cooked before mixing.
My pastry didn’t puff much. Why? This is often due to over-handling the dough, which melts the butter layers. Work quickly and keep ingredients cool. Also, ensure your oven is fully preheated.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled croissants in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven to restore crispness.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling? Definitely. Consider adding finely chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese mixes evenly without overworking the sausage. Take it out of the fridge 30 minutes ahead.
- Overfilling the Pastry: Too much filling will leak out during baking. Use a moderate tablespoon per croissant.
- Skipping the Egg Wash: The egg wash is crucial for that beautiful, glossy, golden-brown finish. Don’t omit it.
- Not Draining Sausage Fat: Excess grease will make the filling oily and can cause the pastry to become soggy.
Conclusion
These Sausage and Cream Cheese Croissants are the perfect combination of flaky, savory, and satisfying. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, they are an impressive treat suitable for any occasion. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll master a delicious recipe that is sure to become a repeat favorite.