Your New Favorite Appetizer

When it comes to quick, crowd-pleasing recipes, Sausage, Rotel & Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls take the crown. This recipe is a delightful combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and the spicy tang of Rotel tomatoes, all wrapped up in buttery crescent rolls. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a potluck, or just looking for a satisfying snack, these crescent rolls are sure to disappear quickly.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for You

This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves bold flavors but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s simple enough for beginner cooks yet sophisticated enough to impress your guests. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these crescent rolls deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can customize the filling to suit your taste.

Let’s dive into what makes these crescent rolls so special and how you can make them a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious crescent rolls:

• 1 pound plain sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 10-ounce can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained very well
• 2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped (optional)
• 1–2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
• 2 tubes of crescent rolls, cut each triangle up the middle the long way

Ingredient Notes:

• Sausage: Use plain sausage to keep the flavor balanced, but you can experiment with spicy sausage if you like more heat.
• Rotel Tomatoes: Drain these thoroughly to prevent the filling from becoming too wet.
• Herbs: While optional, parsley and cilantro add a fresh burst of flavor. Feel free to skip them or substitute with chives or dill.

Directions

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage crumbles, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel, and optional herbs. Mix until well blended.
3. Prepare the Crescent Rolls: Unroll the crescent rolls and use a pizza cutter to cut each triangle in half lengthwise, creating long, skinny triangles.
4. Assemble the Rolls: Place a small scoop (about a heaping teaspoon) of the sausage mixture at the base of each triangle. Roll them up tightly.
5. Bake: Place the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced out to allow for even baking. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve: Let the crescent rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best experience.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Pizza cutter
• Small cookie scoop or teaspoon
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet

Tips and Variations

Tips for Success:

• Drain the Rotel: Ensure the tomatoes are drained thoroughly to avoid soggy rolls.
• Soften the Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese blends more easily with the other ingredients, ensuring a smooth filling.
• Don’t Overfill: Use just enough filling to roll up each crescent without it spilling out.

Variations:

• Cheese Upgrade: Add shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack to the filling for extra cheesiness.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative or sautéed mushrooms.
• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for more heat.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), here’s how to store them:

1. Refrigerate: Place the crescent rolls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the baked rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes for the best texture.
• Microwave: Heat for 20–30 seconds, though this may make the rolls slightly soft.

Food and Drink Pairings

These crescent rolls pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are some ideas:

• Dips: Serve with ranch dressing, spicy queso, or marinara sauce for dipping.
• Salads: A crisp green salad or coleslaw complements the richness of the rolls.
• Drinks: Pair with a cold beer, sparkling water with lime, or a tangy margarita to balance the flavors.

FAQ

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the rolls and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake fresh for the best flavor and texture.

What if I can’t find Rotel tomatoes?

You can use regular diced tomatoes and add a small can of green chilies for a similar flavor profile.

Can I use homemade crescent roll dough?

Yes! If you have a favorite crescent roll dough recipe, it will work beautifully with this filling.

Are there gluten-free options?

Use gluten-free crescent roll dough to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

Sausage, Rotel & Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are a must-try recipe for any occasion. With their bold flavors and easy preparation, they’re destined to become a go-to appetizer or snack in your household. Perfect for game days, parties, or cozy nights in, these crescent rolls truly have it all.

If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes and kitchen tips. Let me know in the comments how your crescent rolls turned out—I can’t wait to hear from you!