Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents

Introduction

When it comes to hosting family gatherings or game day parties, I love to impress my guests with delicious and easy-to-make appetizers. Recently, I discovered a recipe for Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents, and it has quickly become one of my go-to dishes. The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice from the Rotel tomatoes creates an irresistible filling that is wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. My family couldn’t get enough of these tasty bites! They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends. Here’s how you can whip up these delightful crescents in no time.

Ingredients

To make Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground sausage
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cans crescent roll dough (8 oz each)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious crescents:

Cook the Sausage

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease to ensure your filling is not too greasy.

Make the Filling

2. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet with the sausage and stir until melted and fully combined. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
3. Stir in the drained Rotel until evenly mixed. This will add a delightful kick to your filling!

Prepare the Crescent Rolls

4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the crescents bake evenly.
5. Roll out the crescent roll dough on a flat surface and separate it into triangles.

Fill and Roll

6. Place a spoonful of the sausage mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Be careful not to overfill to avoid spillage during baking.
7. Roll each crescent from the wide end to the tip, enclosing the filling securely.

Bake

8. Arrange the crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help with cleanup and prevent sticking.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.

Serve

10. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these warm for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 16 crescents (from 2 cans of dough)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

These crescents can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Snack: Perfect for munching on during movie nights or casual gatherings.
• With Dipping Sauce: Serve with ranch dressing, salsa, or guacamole for an extra flavor boost.
• On a Platter: Arrange on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving at parties.
• Garnished: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
• Warm: These are best enjoyed warm right out of the oven!

Additional Tips

1. Use Low-Fat Ingredients: For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese and turkey sausage.
2. Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, use mild Rotel or substitute with diced tomatoes.
3. Keep Cream Cheese Softened: Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature before mixing for easier incorporation.
4. Pound the Dough: If the crescent rolls are too thick, gently roll them out to make them thinner for a better texture.
5. Monitor Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the crescents as they bake to achieve the perfect golden color.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with cooked mushrooms, spinach, or a meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
• Cheesy Crescents: Add shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack to the filling for extra creaminess and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate additional spices like cayenne pepper or use spicy sausage for more heat.
• Herbed Version: Mix in fresh herbs such as basil or cilantro for added freshness.
• Breakfast Crescents: Add scrambled eggs to the filling for a breakfast twist!

Serving Suggestions

To complement your Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents, consider these serving ideas:

• Pair with Drinks: Serve alongside beer, cocktails, or non-alcoholic beverages for a complete snack experience.
• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad can balance out the richness of the crescents.
• Fruit Platter: Offer a fresh fruit platter to provide a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
• Cheese Board: Include on a cheese board with various cheeses and crackers for an appetizer spread.
• Chips and Dip: Serve with tortilla chips and your favorite dip for a fun snack table.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Unbaked crescents can be frozen. Assemble them, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Leftover cooked crescents can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these crescents ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. What can I use instead of sausage?
   Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute works well.
3. How do I know when they are done?
   They should be golden brown on the outside. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Can I bake them from frozen?
   Yes, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
5. What is the best way to store leftovers?
   Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
6. Can I use other types of cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses.
7. What if I don’t have jalapeño pepper jelly?
   You can substitute with any sweet chili sauce or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.
8. Can these be served cold?
   While they are best warm, they can be served cold if desired.
9. How can I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
10. Are these suitable for kids?
    Yes! Adjust the spice level to suit younger palates, and they make a great snack for kids.

Conclusion

Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents are the perfect blend of flavors that will impress your family and friends alike. With their easy preparation and delightful taste, these crescents are sure to become a staple at your gatherings. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a meal, they offer a deliciously unique twist that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy the smiles around the table!

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