The rich, creamy flavor of sausage, combined with the tangy notes of Rotel and the silky smoothness of cream cheese, creates an irresistible filling in these crescent rolls. I recall the first time I made these for a family gathering; the platter emptied in no time. They’re comforting, flavorful bites that are as perfect for game day as they are for a cozy family dinner. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a great option for those evenings when time runs short but a craving for something delicious arises.
These sausage, Rotel, and cream cheese crescent rolls offer a delightful contrast between the crispy outer layer and the warm, creamy filling inside. Each bite is a burst of flavor—savory sausage mingles with zesty tomatoes and chilies, all enveloped in flaky pastry. It’s no wonder these rolls are a hit at parties, picnics, and casual get-togethers. They’re great for sharing, or, if you prefer, enjoy them all to yourself while curled up on the couch!
Why you’ll love this
- Quick assembly means less prep time, allowing for more time to relax.
- Savory bliss in every bite, perfect for gatherings or family nights.
- Freezer-friendly: get ahead of your meal prep and save for later.
- Versatile pairings with fresh herbs and dips add a personal touch.
- Minimal cleanup required—bake and serve right from the pan.
"A tasty, crowd-pleasing snack that’s really easy to whip up!"
Step-by-step overview
This easy-to-follow recipe brings together four main steps: preparing the filling of sausage and cream cheese mixed with Rotel, cutting the crescent roll dough into triangles, filling, and rolling them up, and finally, baking until golden brown. It’s simple yet delivers big on flavor!
What you’ll need
- 1 pound plain sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 10-ounce can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained very well
- 2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tubes of crescent rolls, cut each triangle up the middle the long way
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Sausage: You can use any flavor of sausage you prefer, such as spicy, Italian, or turkey for a lighter option.
- Cream cheese: Neufchâtel cheese can be a lower-fat alternative.
- Rotel: If you want less heat, choose a mild version or substitute with plain diced tomatoes.
- Herbs: Feel free to leave out or replace parsley and cilantro per your taste; green onions could work nicely too.
How to make it
Making sausage, Rotel, and cream cheese crescent rolls is straightforward. You’ll mix the filling, prepare the dough, fill, and bake.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel. Add the dried herbs if desired and mix until fully incorporated.
- Unroll the crescent rolls. Using a pizza cutter, carefully slice each triangle lengthwise, creating two long and skinny triangles.
- Take a small cookie scoop or a heaping teaspoon of the sausage mixture and place it at the wide end of each crescent triangle. Roll it up tightly, starting from the wide end and tapering towards the point.
- Place the filled rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for about 15 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked thoroughly. You’ll know they’re done when they smell delicious and have a beautiful golden color.
Pro Tip: For a beautiful finish, brush the tops with a little melted butter before baking for an extra-rich flavor and sheen.
Visual doneness cues: Look for a light golden-brown crust and a bubbling cheese filling when you pull them out of the oven.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet to prevent sticking, which makes for easier cleanup.
- Watch the bake time: Keep an eye on the rolls during the last few minutes to prevent over-baking.
- Test the filling: Before rolling, tasting a bit of the mixture ensures it’s perfectly seasoned to your liking.
Serving suggestions
These crescent rolls shine just as they are, but consider serving them with a simple dipping sauce like ranch or sour cream. You could also pair them with a fresh salad or veggie platter to balance the richness of the rolls.
Storage & reheating tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave briefly, or for best results, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes until they’re warmed through and crispy again.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
If your rolls turn out dry, the sausage might have been overcooked before being mixed. To avoid bland flavors, taste the filling before stuffing the rolls and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If they are soggy, make sure to drain the Rotel thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
Recipe variations
Try swapping out the sausage for shredded chicken or a flavorful ground beef mix for a different take. You can also experiment with adding chopped jalapeños for an extra kick or mix in your favorite cheese for more flavor.
Common questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the rolls, place them in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake them just before serving, adding an extra few minutes if needed.
Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, they freeze well before baking. Assemble them and place them on a parchment sheet in the freezer until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding additional time as needed.
What can I serve with sausage, Rotel, and cream cheese crescent rolls?
These rolls are great enjoyed alone, but pairing them with fresh veggies, guacamole, or a simple salad can round out your meal nicely.
What’s a good substitute for cream cheese if I want something lighter?
Neufchâtel cheese is a popular, lower-fat alternative that works well without sacrificing creaminess.
How do I know when they’re done baking?
Look for a golden-brown color on the crescent rolls, and ensure the filling is bubbling slightly at the edges. The aroma in your kitchen will also be a giveaway that they’re ready!
These sausage, Rotel, and cream cheese crescent rolls promise to bring comfort and deliciousness, making them a go-to option for any occasion. Their flaky exterior and creamy, flavorful interior are sure to impress every time!
Sausage, Rotel, and Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Unroll the crescent rolls and use a pizza cutter to slice each triangle lengthwise, creating two long triangles.
- Place a small cookie scoop or a heaping teaspoon of the filling at the wide end of each crescent triangle and roll it tightly towards the point.
- Arrange the filled rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for about 15 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked thoroughly.