Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Flaky, creamy, savory bites that everyone loves!
These easy-to-make pinwheels are packed with rich sausage, creamy cheese, and golden crescent roll dough — perfect as a party appetizer, game-day snack, or family treat.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour chill time)
- Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 35 minutes
- Yields: About 24 pinwheels
Ingredients
- 1 lb bulk pork sausage (mild or spicy based on preference)
- 2 (8 oz) packages refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the sausage until browned and fully cooked (no pink), about 10 minutes.
- Drain and discard excess grease.
- Let the sausage cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Dough
- Unroll 1 package of crescent roll dough onto a clean surface.
- Press the seams together to form a single rectangle.
3. Add the Filling
- Spread half the cream cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
- Sprinkle half the sausage over the cream cheese.
4. Roll and Chill
- Roll the dough up tightly from the long edge to form a log.
- Wrap in plastic wrap or parchment and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Repeat with the second package of dough and remaining ingredients.
5. Slice and Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Unwrap the chilled rolls and slice into ½-inch rounds.
- Place slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment or lightly greased.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.
6. Serve Warm
- Transfer to a platter and serve warm, optionally with your favorite dipping sauces.
Optional Add-Ins & Variations
- Spicy Kick: Use hot sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- Herbed Cream Cheese: Mix in chopped chives, garlic powder, or Italian herbs.
- Cheese Boost: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or pepper jack inside.
- Veggie Add-In: Try adding sautéed mushrooms, onions, or spinach to the filling.
Dipping Sauce Ideas
- Ranch dressing
- Creamy sriracha or chipotle mayo
- Honey mustard
- Tangy BBQ sauce
- Garlic aioli
Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
A: Yes, pre-cooked crumbled sausage works, but fresh bulk sausage offers better flavor and texture when cooked from scratch.
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Store cooled pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for best crispiness.
Q: Can these be frozen?
A: Yes! You can freeze the uncooked logs before slicing. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil. When ready, thaw slightly, slice, and bake.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Definitely. Prepare and chill the logs up to 2 days ahead. Slice and bake right before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have crescent roll dough?
A: Puff pastry or pizza dough can be used instead. Puff pastry gives a flakier result, while pizza dough makes them heartier.
Q: How do I prevent them from unrolling during baking?
A: Chill the rolled logs for at least 1 hour, and make sure seams are pressed tight when rolling. A little egg wash can help seal edges.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in a sealed container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Air fryer or oven at 350°F for 5–8 minutes.
- Freeze: Freeze logs before baking OR baked pinwheels for up to 2 months.
Serving Tips
- Serve on a tray with dipping sauces in small ramekins.
- Add fresh herbs or microgreens for a decorative touch.
- For brunch, pair with fruit and eggs.
- For parties, insert toothpicks for easy serving.
Final Thoughts
Sausage and cream cheese pinwheels are comforting, crowd-pleasing, and customizable. Whether you’re a novice cook or seasoned host, these little bites are guaranteed to disappear fast from any table. Enjoy making them, and even more — sharing them.