If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing snack that combines creamy, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite, the Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden crescent rolls wrapped around a luscious blend of spicy Rotel diced tomatoes, rich cream cheese, and perfectly seasoned sausage create an irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for game days, parties, or simply elevating your breakfast game. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a show-stopping dish that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the creamy softness of the cheese to the spicy kick of the Rotel, every component is essential to bring this dish to life.
- Cream cheese (8-ounce package, softened): This provides a smooth, tangy base that complements the spicy sausage and adds creaminess to the filling.
- Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (10-ounce can, drained well): Adds a zesty, mildly spicy burst of tomato and chili flavor that brings brightness to the dish.
- Ground breakfast sausage (1 pound): The savory heart of the filling, giving it a meaty, seasoned backbone that’s simply irresistible.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough (two 8-ounce cans): Provides the flaky, buttery exterior that crisps up beautifully while holding the filling inside.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Adds a subtle depth of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Offers just the right amount of ground spice to elevate the sausage mixture.
How to Make Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground breakfast sausage until it’s fully browned and cooked through. As it cooks, break it apart so you get lovely crumbly pieces that will mix evenly with the other ingredients. Once cooked, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside to cool slightly. This ensures your filling won’t be greasy and will have that perfect texture.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a roomy bowl, combine your softened cream cheese with the well-drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies. Add the cooled cooked sausage to the mix, along with black pepper and garlic powder if you’re using it. Stir everything until you get a creamy, evenly blended filling with flavorful pops of sausage and the gentle heat from the chilies.
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Dough
Unroll your refrigerated crescent dough and carefully separate it into individual triangles. These triangles are the vessels that will hug your delicious filling. Each little triangle holds the promise of a flavor-packed bite.
Step 4: Assemble the Crescents
Spoon about a heaping tablespoon of your sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each dough triangle. Be generous but avoid overfilling to prevent leaking. Then, roll each triangle starting at the wide end and gently tuck the small point all the way to the end, sealing your filling inside like a cozy blanket.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your newly rolled crescents on a parchment-lined baking sheet with the point side down to keep the filling inside. Slide them into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 14 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Let them cool just a bit before serving, allowing the flavors to settle and the filling to thicken slightly.
How to Serve Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or a handful of shredded cheddar cheese on top for an extra punch of color and flavor. A light dusting of smoked paprika can also add a subtle smoky notes that pair beautifully with the sausage.
Side Dishes
Pair these crescents with a crunchy garden salad or a tangy coleslaw to balance out the richness. If serving for breakfast, fresh fruit or a spicy salsa on the side offers a fresh contrast to the savory crescents.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your crescents in a circular pattern around a bowl of creamy ranch or guacamole dip for a festive party platter. Alternatively, serve them alongside a breakfast casserole for a hearty brunch spread that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The crescent dough may soften slightly but reheating will bring back some of the original crustiness.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! After assembling, but before baking, place the crescents on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you want to enjoy them, bake straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes or in an air fryer until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the dough chewy.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage works just as well and offers a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before mixing.
Do I have to drain the Rotel tomatoes?
Yes, draining the Rotel well is really important to prevent soggy dough. Excess liquid can make the crescent rolls less crisp and cause the filling to leak out during baking.
Can I make the filling in advance?
You sure can! Preparing the filling up to 2 days ahead saves time on game day or party prep. Keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to roll.
Are there any good dipping sauces for these crescents?
Yes, ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or a classic salsa all pair really well with these crescents and add an extra layer of flavor for dipping.
Can I add cheese inside the filling?
That’s a delicious idea! Mixing in some shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese with the filling adds even more richness and gooey texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe that makes it a beloved dish for so many occasions. It’s straightforward, packed with flavor, and delivers that perfect comfort food experience wrapped up in a golden crescent roll. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, as an appetizer, or for a snack, these crescents are always a hit. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to for entertaining or cozy nights at home.
Print
Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 16 crescents
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents are a savory and easy-to-make appetizer featuring a creamy, spicy filling of cream cheese, Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cooked breakfast sausage wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. Perfect for parties, snacks, or a hearty breakfast, these golden-baked crescents deliver a delicious combination of creamy, spicy, and meaty flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained well
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Dough
- 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground breakfast sausage until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and allow the sausage to cool slightly.
- Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, well-drained Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, garlic powder if using, black pepper, and the cooked sausage. Stir thoroughly until evenly mixed and creamy.
- Prepare Crescent Rolls: Unroll the crescent dough and separate each can into individual triangles. Place a heaping tablespoon of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each triangle.
- Roll Crescents: Starting from the wide end, carefully roll up each triangle toward the narrow point, securing the filling inside. Place each rolled crescent on the prepared baking sheet with the point side down to prevent unrolling during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the crescents cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set.
Notes
- Ensure the Rotel tomatoes are drained thoroughly to prevent soggy dough.
- These crescents make excellent appetizers, party snacks, or a delicious breakfast option.
- You can prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.
