Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels: An Irresistible Appetizer Recipe

Sausage cream cheese pinwheels are a party favorite for a reason. They’re incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe combines savory sausage, creamy cheese, and flaky pastry for an appetizer that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a holiday party, or just looking for a delicious snack, these pinwheels are guaranteed to be a hit. This guide will walk you through each step, offering tips and variations to make this recipe your own.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Simple Ingredients:** You probably have many of these ingredients in your fridge already.
* **Quick to Prepare:** From start to finish, these pinwheels can be ready in under an hour.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** The combination of flavors and textures is universally appealing.
* **Versatile:** Easily adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** Prepare them ahead of time and bake just before serving.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for this delightful appetizer:

* **1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts):** Pie crust provides the flaky base for the pinwheels. You can also use puff pastry for a richer flavor.
* **8 ounces cream cheese, softened:** Softened cream cheese is essential for creating a smooth and spreadable filling. Allow it to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
* **1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled:** Breakfast sausage adds a savory and meaty element to the pinwheels. You can use regular or spicy sausage, depending on your preference. Make sure to drain any excess grease after cooking.
* **1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese:** Cheddar cheese adds a sharp and cheesy flavor that complements the sausage and cream cheese. You can substitute other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend.
* **1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions):** Green onions add a fresh and mild onion flavor to the filling. They also provide a pop of color. You can substitute with chives if desired.
* **1 teaspoon garlic powder:** Garlic powder enhances the savory flavor of the sausage and cream cheese filling. You can use fresh minced garlic if you prefer, but garlic powder is more convenient.
* **1/2 teaspoon black pepper:** Black pepper adds a touch of spice and enhances the other flavors.
* **Optional: 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash):** An egg wash helps the pinwheels brown beautifully in the oven. It also adds a slight sheen. You can skip this step if you don’t have an egg on hand, but the pinwheels may not be as golden.
* **Optional: Everything bagel seasoning, poppy seeds, or sesame seeds (for topping):** These toppings add a visual appeal and extra flavor. Everything bagel seasoning is a popular choice, but poppy seeds or sesame seeds also work well.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large skillet:** For cooking the sausage.
* **Mixing bowl:** For combining the filling ingredients.
* **Rolling pin:** For slightly thinning the pie crusts.
* **Rubber spatula or knife:** For spreading the filling.
* **Pizza cutter or sharp knife:** For slicing the pinwheels.
* **Baking sheet:** For baking the pinwheels.
* **Parchment paper or silicone baking mat:** To prevent the pinwheels from sticking to the baking sheet.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create perfect sausage cream cheese pinwheels every time:

**Step 1: Cook the Sausage**

1. Remove the sausage from its casing (if applicable).
2. Place the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is fully cooked and no longer pink.
4. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
5. Set the cooked sausage aside to cool slightly.

**Step 2: Prepare the Filling**

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the filling is smooth and creamy.

**Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels**

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
3. Unroll one of the refrigerated pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface.
4. Use a rolling pin to slightly thin the pie crust, making it a bit larger (about 12×14 inches).
5. Spread half of the cream cheese and sausage filling evenly over the entire surface of the pie crust, leaving a small border at the edges.
6. Starting from one end, tightly roll the pie crust into a log.
7. Repeat steps 3-6 with the second pie crust and the remaining filling.

**Step 4: Slice and Bake**

1. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice each log into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels.
2. Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
3. If using, brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg. This will give them a golden brown color.
4. Sprinkle the pinwheels with everything bagel seasoning, poppy seeds, or sesame seeds, if desired.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the filling is set.

**Step 5: Cool and Serve**

1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pinwheels cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving platter.
2. Serve the pinwheels warm. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger spread.

## Tips for Perfect Pinwheels

* **Soften the Cream Cheese:** Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth and easily spreadable filling. If you forget to take it out of the refrigerator ahead of time, you can microwave it for a few seconds at a time until softened, but be careful not to melt it.
* **Drain the Sausage Well:** Drain any excess grease from the cooked sausage to prevent the pinwheels from becoming greasy. You can blot the sausage with paper towels to remove any remaining grease.
* **Don’t Overfill:** Avoid overfilling the pie crusts, as this can make them difficult to roll and slice. A thin, even layer of filling is ideal.
* **Roll Tightly:** Roll the pie crusts tightly to create pinwheels that hold their shape and don’t unravel during baking.
* **Chill Before Slicing (Optional):** For easier slicing, you can chill the rolled logs in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before slicing. This will help them firm up and prevent the filling from squeezing out.
* **Use a Sharp Knife:** A sharp knife or pizza cutter is essential for slicing the pinwheels cleanly. A dull knife can tear the pastry and make the pinwheels look messy.
* **Watch the Baking Time:** Keep a close eye on the pinwheels while they’re baking to prevent them from burning. The baking time may vary depending on your oven.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Spicy Sausage:** Use hot breakfast sausage for a kick.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Gruyere.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Replace the sausage with cooked and crumbled vegetarian sausage or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and peppers.
* **Add Vegetables:** Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes into the filling.
* **Italian Pinwheels:** Use Italian sausage and add Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil to the filling.
* **Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels:** Add diced jalapeños and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs to the filling for a spicy and cheesy twist.
* **Puff Pastry:** Use puff pastry instead of pie crust for a richer and flakier texture. Note that puff pastry may require a slightly longer baking time.
* **Cream Cheese Alternatives:** Use Neufchatel cheese (reduced-fat cream cheese) for a lighter option.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free pie crusts to make this recipe gluten-free.

## Serving Suggestions

* **Appetizer:** Serve the pinwheels as a standalone appetizer at parties, gatherings, or game day events.
* **Snack:** Enjoy them as a satisfying snack any time of day.
* **Brunch:** Include them as part of a brunch spread alongside other breakfast favorites like eggs, bacon, and fruit.
* **Lunchbox:** Pack them in lunchboxes for a tasty and portable meal.
* **Dipping Sauces:** Serve them with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, marinara sauce, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

These sausage cream cheese pinwheels are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare them in advance and bake them just before serving.

**Option 1: Assemble and Refrigerate**

1. Prepare the pinwheels according to the recipe instructions up to the point of slicing.
2. Wrap the rolled logs tightly in plastic wrap.
3. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
4. When ready to bake, slice the logs into pinwheels and bake as directed.

**Option 2: Assemble and Freeze**

1. Prepare the pinwheels according to the recipe instructions up to the point of slicing.
2. Wrap the rolled logs tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap them again in aluminum foil.
3. Freeze for up to 2 months.
4. When ready to bake, thaw the logs in the refrigerator overnight.
5. Slice the logs into pinwheels and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the pinwheels are still slightly cold.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat the pinwheels in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they may become slightly soggy.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* **Calories:** Approximately 150-200 calories per pinwheel (depending on ingredients and portion size).
* **Fat:** 10-15 grams
* **Protein:** 5-8 grams
* **Carbohydrates:** 10-15 grams

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary.*

## Conclusion

Sausage cream cheese pinwheels are a versatile and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With their simple ingredients, quick preparation, and crowd-pleasing flavor, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, these pinwheels are a guaranteed hit. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy these irresistible bites!