Sausage and Cream Cheese-Filled Baked Pastries
Introduction
Sausage and cream cheese-filled baked pastries are a delightful combination of rich, savory flavors wrapped in a flaky, golden crust.
These pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an appetizer for any gathering. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with.
the crisp exterior, making them irresistible to anyone who tries them.
Ingredients
1 package of puff pastry sheets, thawed
8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
1 pound of ground sausage, cooked and drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to the appropriate temperature and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
This ensures your pastries bake evenly and are easy to remove from the tray.
Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
A well-drained sausage ensures your filling isn’t overly greasy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese.
garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix until the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and form a creamy, cohesive filling.
Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface and cut them into squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred pastry size. Each square will serve as the base for your filling.
Spoon a generous portion of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry square.
Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing the edges difficult and may cause leakage during baking.
Fold the pastry squares over the filling to form triangles or rectangles, pressing the edges firmly to seal.
Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish and to ensure they stay closed during baking.
How to Make
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients and tools, such as a rolling pin, mixing bowl, and baking sheet.
Having everything organized will streamline the process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
Cooking the sausage properly is crucial for a flavorful filling. Use your preferred type of sausage, and make sure it is browned evenly.
Allow it to cool before mixing with the cream cheese to prevent it from melting prematurely.
Softening the cream cheese ensures it blends smoothly with the other ingredients. If it’s too firm, microwave it briefly or leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.
Rolling out the puff pastry evenly is key to achieving uniform pastries.
Use a light dusting of flour to prevent sticking, and handle the pastry gently to maintain its flakiness.
Sealing the pastries well is important to prevent filling from oozing out during baking.
Pressing the edges firmly and crimping them with a fork creates a tight seal while adding a decorative touch.
Applying the egg wash is a simple step that elevates the appearance of your pastries.
The egg wash gives them a glossy finish and enhances the golden color during baking.
Tips
For a spicier twist, use hot sausage or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling. This will give your pastries an extra kick of heat.
Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda, to customize the flavor profile. Each cheese brings its unique taste and texture to the recipe.
If you prefer a lighter option, use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry. Brush each layer with melted butter for a crisp, flaky result.
Make the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This saves time and makes assembly easier, especially if you’re preparing these for a large gathering.
When cutting the puff pastry, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to create clean edges. This prevents the dough from tearing and ensures uniform pastries.
For a sweet-savory variation, add a dollop of fruit preserves, such as apricot or cranberry, to the filling before sealing the pastries. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory sausage.
Serve the pastries warm with a dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, marinara, or ranch, to add an extra layer of flavor.
These sauces complement the richness of the filling and elevate the overall dish.
Conclusion
Sausage and cream cheese-filled baked pastries are a versatile dish that brings comfort and indulgence to any occasion.
Their rich filling and flaky crust make them a hit at breakfast tables, parties, or casual get-togethers.
The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and buttery pastry is a classic that never fails to please.
Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making these pastries unforgettable.
The simplicity of the recipe allows for endless customization, giving you the freedom to experiment.
with different ingredients and flavors. This adaptability makes it a go-to choice for busy days or special events.