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If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any gathering, these Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents are going to hit the spot! These buttery crescent rolls are packed with a creamy, spicy, and savory filling, blending sausage, cream cheese, and the beloved Rotel tomatoes. This recipe is quick to make, crowd-pleasing, and versatile—ideal as an appetizer, game-day snack, or even a fun breakfast bite!
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Why You’ll Love Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
These crescents are an absolute crowd favorite for a reason. Here’s why they’ll quickly become a go-to in your recipe collection:
- Simple Ingredients: Just a handful of pantry staples.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, these make an effortless last-minute treat.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of spicy sausage, tangy cream cheese, and Rotel tomatoes makes every bite a flavor bomb.
- Endless Versatility: Perfect as a breakfast snack, appetizer, or party finger food.
- Kid and Adult Friendly: The creamy filling and flaky crust appeal to all ages.
What Do Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Taste Like?
Imagine the flaky, buttery goodness of crescent rolls, filled with savory sausage and a creamy mixture that’s both rich and tangy. The Rotel tomatoes add just the right amount of spice, bringing a pop of flavor that’s anything but boring. These crescents are indulgent yet incredibly satisfying, with every bite as delicious as the last.
Ingredients for Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
To make this tasty treat, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb spicy ground sausage – Adds savory flavor and a bit of heat.
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies – Drained well; provides a spicy, tangy flavor.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Creamy and smooth, it binds the filling.
- 2 cans (8 oz each) crescent roll dough – Creates a flaky and buttery outer layer.
Recommended Tools
- Nonstick skillet – For browning the sausage.
- Mixing bowl – To combine the cream cheese, sausage, and Rotel.
- Baking sheet – For baking the crescent rolls.
- Parchment paper (optional) – To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
Optional Additions and Substitutions
- Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese for an extra cheesy kick.
- Jalapeños: For a spicy boost, add chopped jalapeños to the filling.
- Italian sausage: Substitute for spicy sausage if you prefer less heat.
- Reduced-fat cream cheese: To cut down on calories without sacrificing creaminess.
How to Make Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
1: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Sausage: In a nonstick skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel tomatoes. Stir until well blended and creamy.
2: Prepare the Crescent Rolls
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll Out the Dough: Open the cans of crescent roll dough and unroll each piece. Separate the dough into individual triangles.
- Add the Filling: Place a spoonful of the sausage mixture at the wider end of each crescent triangle.
- Roll Them Up: Starting from the wide end, roll each crescent up, encasing the filling in the dough. Place each crescent seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3: Bake and Serve
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescents are golden brown.
- Serve Warm: These are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven, when the filling is creamy, and the crescents are crisp and flaky.
Serving Suggestions for Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
These versatile crescent rolls can be served with a variety of sides and dips, including:
- Marinara or Ranch Dipping Sauce: Adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Side Salad: Serve alongside a simple green salad for a light, balanced snack.
- Fresh Veggies: Pair with celery sticks, carrots, or bell peppers for a crunchy contrast.
- Brunch Spread: Add them to a breakfast or brunch spread with scrambled eggs and fruit.
Tips for Perfect Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
- Drain the Rotel Well: Excess liquid can make the filling too runny, so be sure to drain it thoroughly.
- Use Softened Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese mixes more easily with the other ingredients, resulting in a smooth filling.
- Cook Sausage Thoroughly: Ensure the sausage is fully cooked and any excess grease is drained off before mixing with other ingredients.
- Prevent Overflow: Don’t overfill the crescents, as too much filling can cause them to open up during baking.
Storage Instructions
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), you can store them easily:
- Refrigerator: Place any remaining crescents in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: These crescents freeze well! Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these crescents ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply assemble the crescents with the filling, roll them up, and bake.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While spicy sausage is ideal for flavor, mild sausage, Italian sausage, or even breakfast sausage will work well. Adjust seasonings if needed.
What can I use instead of Rotel tomatoes?
If you don’t have Rotel, you can use a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies or your favorite salsa as a substitute. Just be sure to drain the liquid thoroughly.
Are these crescents gluten-free?
Traditional crescent roll dough contains gluten, but you can use a gluten-free crescent dough substitute if available. Just be sure to adjust baking time as needed.
Conclusion
These Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents are a fantastic recipe to add to your rotation, whether you’re prepping for game day, a holiday appetizer spread, or just a cozy family gathering. They’re simple to make, bursting with flavor, and truly a crowd-pleaser that everyone will be reaching for! With the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and savory, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried them sooner.
If you loved this recipe, try some of our other easy, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing recipes!
- Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe: The Ultimate Crispy, Flavorful Delight
- Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
- Homemade Sweet Potato Cornbread
Let us know how they turned out and don’t forget to share your photos on Pinterest and tag us!
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 33mg
- Sodium: 340mg
Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 16 1x
Description
These Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents are the ultimate savory treat—creamy, spicy, and wrapped in a flaky, buttery crescent roll. Made with spicy sausage, cream cheese, and Rotel tomatoes, they’re perfect for game day, brunch, or a quick snack everyone will love. Simple ingredients, easy to make, and crowd-pleasing!
Ingredients
- 1 lb spicy ground sausage
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained well
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cans (8 oz each) crescent roll dough
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel tomatoes. Stir until well mixed.
- Unroll the crescent dough and separate into triangles.
- Place a spoonful of the sausage mixture at the wider end of each triangle. Roll up from the wide end, encasing the filling.
- Place the crescents seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until crescents are golden brown. Serve warm.
Notes
- Be sure to drain the Rotel tomatoes well to prevent the filling from being too runny.
- You can add shredded cheese or diced jalapeños to the filling for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American