Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease and transfer the sausage to a mixing bowl.
- Mix with Cream Cheese: While the sausage is still warm, add the softened cream cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and blends smoothly with the sausage.
- Add Rotel: Drain the Rotel tomatoes thoroughly to prevent excess moisture, then mix them into the sausage and cream cheese mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined. Set the filling aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Rolls
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
- Roll Out the Dough: Open one can of crescent roll dough. Separate it into the pre-cut triangles and lay them flat on a clean, floured surface or a large cutting board.
- Fill the Crescents: Place about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the sausage mixture onto the widest part of each triangle. Be careful not to overfill to prevent the dough from tearing during rolling.
- Roll and Seal: Starting at the wide end, gently roll up each triangle, tucking the filling as you go. Place the crescents seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the second can of dough.
Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches
- Optional Egg Wash: For a golden, glossy finish, beat the egg with a tablespoon of water and brush the tops of each crescent with the egg wash using a pastry brush.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Bake: Place the crescents in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the crescents to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a serving plate.
Tips for Success
- Draining the Rotel: Properly draining the tomatoes is crucial to avoid a soggy filling. Use a fine mesh sieve and press gently with the back of a spoon to remove excess liquid.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting the recipe.
- Doubling the Recipe: These crescents are addictive! If you’re feeding a crowd, double the ingredients and bake in batches.
Serving Suggestions
These Rotel Sausage & Cream Cheese Crescents are best served warm. Pair them with:
- Dipping Sauces: Ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or marinara sauce.
- Side Dishes: A fresh green salad or a bowl of hearty soup.
Storage and Reheating
Storing:
Place leftover crescents in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-40 seconds, though the crescent may lose some of its crispness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty tomatoes all wrapped in buttery crescent dough creates a flavor explosion in every bite. These crescents are:
- Perfect for game days, parties, or casual get-togethers.
- Easy to make with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
- A guaranteed hit that will have your guests coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
Try this recipe today and experience the magic of Rotel Sausage & Cream Cheese Crescents for yourself. They’re a little crispy, a little creamy, and absolutely irresistible!