There’s something magical about a recipe that combines savory, creamy, and just a hint of spice into a handheld delight. That’s precisely what you get with these Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an easy appetizer, or craving a snack that feels like a warm hug, these crescents check all the boxes.
Let me share how I discovered this gem of a recipe. It was one of those “clean out the fridge” evenings when I found some leftover beef sausage and cream cheese. A can of Rotel called my name, and the crescent rolls in the back of the fridge were practically begging to be used. What happened next was nothing short of a snack-time miracle.
Let’s dive right into how you can recreate these bites of joy!
The Perfect Start to a Savory Snack
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s set the stage. This recipe is straightforward, with just a handful of ingredients you probably already have on hand. The combination of beef sausage, cream cheese, and Rotel creates a filling that’s equal parts hearty, creamy, and flavorful. When wrapped in crescent rolls, it transforms into a buttery, flaky masterpiece.
Gather Your Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make about 32 crescents:
- 1 pound of beef sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 (10-ounce) can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, well-drained
- 2 (8-ounce) cans of refrigerated crescent rolls
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first—preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the crescents bake evenly and come out with that golden-brown perfection.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel tomatoes. Use a spoon or spatula to mix until everything is evenly incorporated. The cream cheese binds it all together while the Rotel adds a burst of flavor with a slight kick from the green chilies. (Pro Tip: If you’re in the mood for extra heat, use the spicy version of Rotel!)
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Dough
Next, unroll the crescent rolls and separate them into triangles. For smaller, bite-sized crescents, cut each triangle in half lengthwise. Trust me, this step makes these perfect for parties and ensures every bite has just the right amount of filling-to-crust ratio.
Filling, Rolling, and Baking to Perfection
Now that we’ve prepped our filling and crescent dough, it’s time to bring these delightful little bundles to life. This part of the process is where the magic happens, and trust me, it’s as fun as it is simple. Whether you’re making these for a family game night, a holiday gathering, or just a snack attack, the steps below will ensure your Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents turn out perfectly every time.
Step 4: Fill and Roll
This is where your crescents go from dough triangles to irresistible bites of heaven.
- Scoop the Filling: Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, place about a tablespoon of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Don’t overfill! You want enough to taste all the flavors without the filling spilling out during baking.
- Roll It Up: Starting at the wide end, gently roll the triangle towards the narrow tip. As you roll, tuck the sides slightly to keep the filling secure. It doesn’t need to be perfect—these are homemade, after all! Once rolled, place each crescent seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
With your crescents ready, it’s time to bake them to golden perfection.
- Bake Time: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the crescents are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary depending on your oven. The heavenly aroma will let you know they’re almost done.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure they’re fully baked, the bottoms of the crescents should also be a nice golden color. If you find they need a bit more time, give them another minute or two, but be careful not to overbake.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Crescents
Here are a few insider tips to make these crescents absolutely foolproof:
- Choose Your Sausage Wisely: While the recipe calls for beef sausage, you can easily substitute pork, turkey, or even plant-based sausage for a different twist. Just make sure it’s cooked and crumbled before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- Drain the Rotel Well: Excess liquid can make the filling too runny, causing the crescents to be soggy. Let the Rotel drain in a fine mesh strainer for a few minutes to avoid this issue.
- Keep the Dough Cold: Crescent roll dough is easier to work with when it’s cold. If it starts to soften too much while you’re filling and rolling, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
- Add a Cheese Sprinkle: For a little extra indulgence, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top of the crescents before baking. It creates a deliciously cheesy crust.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the crescents are baked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve them warm for the best taste and texture. Whether you’re enjoying them as-is or dipping them in your favorite sauces (ranch, salsa, or even queso!), these crescents are sure to disappear in no time.
Your Questions Answered and Final Thoughts
As we near the end of this culinary adventure, let’s address some of the most common questions about Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying this as your first recipe, this FAQ section will help ensure success. Afterward, I’ll wrap things up with some encouragement to make this recipe your own!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make these crescents ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the crescents and pop them in the oven. You can also assemble and refrigerate the unbaked crescents for up to 12 hours.
2. Can I freeze these crescents?
Yes! These crescents freeze beautifully. Once baked and cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
3. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Definitely! Pork sausage, turkey sausage, or even spicy chorizo are great alternatives. If you’re vegetarian, plant-based sausage crumbles work wonderfully too.
4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To keep the crescents flaky and crisp, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dough rubbery.
5. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, with a little modification! Look for gluten-free crescent roll dough or use a homemade gluten-free pastry dough. Ensure the sausage and Rotel are also gluten-free by checking their labels.
6. What dipping sauces pair well with these crescents?
These crescents are delicious on their own, but pairing them with dips takes them to the next level. Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or spicy queso are all excellent choices. For a unique twist, try a sweet and tangy chili sauce.
7. Can I add extra ingredients to the filling?
Absolutely! Finely chopped jalapeños, shredded cheese, or diced onions make great additions. Get creative and customize the filling to your taste.
Conclusion: A Recipe to Share and Enjoy
And there you have it—Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents, a simple yet satisfying snack that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re whipping these up for game day, a holiday gathering, or a quiet night in, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.
One of the best parts of this recipe is how versatile it is. You can switch up the sausage, add extra flavors, or even make a double batch because let’s face it, they’ll disappear quickly! Plus, it’s an approachable recipe that even beginner cooks can nail on the first try.
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Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
These buttery crescent rolls are stuffed with a creamy, spicy mixture of beef sausage, cream cheese, and Rotel tomatoes with green chilies. Perfect for parties, snacks, or appetizers, they’re irresistibly delicious and easy to make!
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 (10-ounce) can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, well drained
- 2 (8-ounce) cans of refrigerated crescent rolls
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked and crumbled beef sausage, softened cream cheese, and well-drained Rotel tomatoes. Mix until fully combined.
3️⃣ Prep the Crescent Dough:
Unroll the crescent rolls and separate them into individual triangles. Cut each triangle in half lengthwise to create smaller triangles.
4️⃣ Fill and Roll:
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, place a small amount of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Gently roll the dough, starting from the wide end and tucking the filling inside as you go.
5️⃣ Bake:
Place the crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the crescents are golden brown.
6️⃣ Serve:
Remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven!
Notes
- Customizations: Add shredded cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to the filling for an extra cheesy kick.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the crescents and refrigerate them covered until ready to bake.
- Spice Level: For a milder version, use mild Rotel or swap with diced plain tomatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Makes about 24 crescents
