If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with flavor, comforting textures, and that perfect hint of spice, you have to try this Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe. Combining savory sausage, creamy tangy cream cheese, and the zesty pop of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, all wrapped in flaky crescent dough, this dish is one of those irresistible crowd-pleasers. It’s easy to make, fun to eat, and perfect for everything from game days to casual get-togethers. Let me show you how this simple yet sensational appetizer comes together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the short list fool you—each ingredient in this Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor and texture that work beautifully together. From the spicy sausage to the creamy cheese and flaky dough, it’s a balanced harmony waiting to happen.
- 1 lb ground sausage: Choose your favorite—mild or spicy—to add rich, savory depth.
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained: Adds a vibrant kick and a burst of color that wakes up the dish.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Brings a smooth creaminess that tames the spice and binds the filling.
- 2 cans crescent roll dough (8 oz each): The buttery, flaky wrap that gives these crescents their irresistible golden crust.
How to Make Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage to Perfection
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning the ground sausage until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Don’t forget to drain the excess grease—this keeps your crescents from getting greasy and lets the flavors shine.
Step 2: Combine Cream Cheese and Rotel
Next, add the softened cream cheese directly into the hot skillet with the sausage. Stir continuously as it melts, blending into a rich, creamy mixture. Then, fold in the drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, making sure every bite will have a balanced burst of spicy, cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Dough
While the filling melds, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the crescent roll dough on a clean, flat surface and gently separate each can into individual triangles—the perfect size for tucking in your flavorful filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Crescents
Place a generous spoonful of the sausage filling onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Carefully roll it up toward the narrow tip, enclosing the filling completely to prevent leaks during baking. This step is key to those beautiful, golden pockets you’ll soon enjoy.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Perfect
Arrange your rolled crescents on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving each some space to puff up. Slide them into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn a stunning golden brown and your kitchen starts smelling like heaven.
Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the crescents rest for a few minutes so the filling settles and doesn’t burn your mouth. Serve them warm, and prepare for compliments as everyone reaches for seconds.
How to Serve Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or green onions can add a fresh pop of color and brightness that balances the richness. If you like heat, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a dusting of smoked paprika can elevate the flavor even more.
Side Dishes
This Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe pairs perfectly with crisp vegetable sticks or a light salad to cut through the richness. Consider serving with salsa, guacamole, or a tangy sour cream dip to round out the sampler experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party twist, arrange the crescents on a platter in a circular pattern with dipping sauces in the middle, turning it into a beautiful centerpiece. Alternatively, slice larger crescents into bite-sized pieces to create easy finger foods that guests can nibble on while mingling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though they rarely last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps them fresh enough to enjoy as a quick snack or a light meal later on.
Freezing
You can freeze these crescents either before baking or after cooling. For unbaked crescents, assemble them and place on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes. Baked crescents freeze well too—just reheat once thawed.
Reheating
To reheat, place crescents on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes until heated through and crisp. Avoid microwaving to keep that flaky texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
While cream cheese is ideal for the creamy, tangy texture it provides, you could experiment with queso fresco or a mild goat cheese, but keep in mind the flavor and consistency will change.
Is it necessary to drain the Rotel tomatoes and green chilies?
Draining is important to prevent soggy crescents. Excess liquid can seep into the dough and make it less flaky, so make sure to drain well before mixing.
Can I use vegetarian sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! Vegetarian or plant-based sausage works well, allowing you to tailor the recipe to dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
What type of crescent roll dough works best?
The classic refrigerated crescent dough in cans is perfect here because of its buttery flavor and easy-to-roll texture, but you could try puff pastry for a slightly different flakiness.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! The Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe scales up nicely. Just keep an eye on your oven; you may need to bake in batches to ensure even cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe is one of those go-to dishes that never fails to impress. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for sharing with family and friends. Once you make these, they’ll quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection, and trust me, you’ll find every opportunity to whip them up. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy some seriously delicious crescents!
Print
Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 crescents
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents are a flavorful and cheesy appetizer that combines savory ground sausage, creamy melted cream cheese, and zesty Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, all wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for parties, game days, or easy snacking.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 lb ground sausage
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Dough
- 2 cans crescent roll dough (8 oz each)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease from the skillet to prevent sogginess.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the softened cream cheese to the hot sausage in the skillet and stir continuously until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir in the drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies until the filling is evenly combined and heated through.
- Prepare Crescent Dough: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a clean, flat surface, roll out the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles as per the packaging.
- Fill Crescents: Spoon a generous amount of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Carefully roll each crescent from the wide end toward the point, ensuring the filling is sealed inside.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the filled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly so they don’t touch during baking.
- Bake: Bake the crescents in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown color.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the crescents to cool for a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy them as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Drain the Rotel well to prevent excess moisture from making the crescents soggy.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy melting and blending.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese inside before rolling.
- These crescents are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a low oven or microwave.
- To make it milder, use mild Rotel or omit the chilies.
