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Super Easy Sausage Pinwheels Appetizers

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Donna Urso

Are you craving crave-worthy appetizers? Look no further than these flavor-packed Sausage Pinwheel Appetizers!  They're perfect for Super Bowl parties, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers, and best of all, they're super easy to make ahead using simple ingredients.

With a package of puff pastry, a pound of pork sausage, and a variety of flavorful additions you can make these mouthwatering, tasty bites.

A stack of sausage pinwheel appetizers.

This recipe makes approximately forty sausage pinwheels using one package of puff pastry.  That's enough for a festive get-together or a small gathering with extras for the freezer.

Why You'll Love These Sausage Pinwheel Appetizers

1. Easy Preparation: They are ready in minutes. Whip up these beauties in no time with this hassle-free recipe.

2. Freezer-friendly: Make them ahead and freeze for effortless entertaining whenever needed.

3. Crowd-pleasing flavor: Savory sausage, melt-in-your-mouth pastry, and your favorite fillings create an irresistible bite perfect for any party.

4. Simple ingredients: Stock up on pantry staples and you're good to go!

How to Make Sausage Pinwheels

You will need:

Fresh spinach in a colander, puff pastry in a carton, shredded cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, scallions, 2 cloves of garlic, pork sausage, 1/2 onion
  • 1 pkg frozen puff pastry, thawed following package directions
  • 1 lb pork sausage, breakfast sausage works great!
  • 1-8 ounce pkg cream cheese
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 3 ounces fresh baby spinach, chopped
  • 3-4 scallions, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, extra sharp is best
  • 3-Tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
  • salt and pepper, to taste

The Steps

Brown the pork sausage in a large skillet over medium heat with the onion and garlic. Add the chopped fresh spinach and stir until the spinach wilts. Set the mixture aside to cool.

Mix the sausage mixture into the cream cheese stirring to thoroughly combine. Add the scallions, cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese. Mix well.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Lay the thawed puff pastry on your lightly floured counter. Spread half of the sausage mixture on one piece of the puff pastry, spreading to the edge. Make sure the sausage forms an even layer on the pastry.

Roll the one end of the pastry over itself, jelly-roll style. Cut the roll into half-inch slices. Place the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake the sausage pinwheels on the center rack of your oven for 15-20 minutes until puffed, browned, and crisp. Cool in the pan to allow the pinwheels to firm up. Serve warm.
A woman holding a baked sausage pinwheel appetizer.

Tips for Working with Puff Pastry: Sausage Pinwheel Perfection Every Time

Puff pastry might seem intimidating, but with a few key tips, you'll be whipping up impressive sausage pinwheels in no time! Remember, the key to flaky, golden perfection lies in keeping things cool. Here's what you need to know:

 Temperature is Everything:

1. Cold dough is happy dough. Keep your puff pastry chilled until the very last minute. Work on a cool surface and use cold utensils. Warm hands? Dip them in cold water or wear gloves.

2. Pre-heating is key: Ensure your oven is piping hot (around 400°F) before baking. This creates steam that helps the pastry puff beautifully.

Handle with Care

3. Thaw Gently: When using frozen puff pastry, it's best to plan ahead and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. You can thaw it at room temperature but you must monitor it and don't let it get warm.

4. Unfold Carefully: Once thawed, unfold the pastry gently and avoid stretching it. If it tears slightly, don't worry, just pinch it back together.

5. Rolling Right: Use a light dusting of flour when rolling, but don't overdo it. Roll gently and evenly, applying minimal pressure.
 
Two hands rolling puff pastry for sausage pinwheels.

Shaping and Baking:

6. Sharp Cuts are Best: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts that won't damage the delicate layers. Cut straight down, not sawing back and forth.

7. Don't Overwork: The less you handle the pastry, the better. Once shaped, transfer it to the baking sheet as quickly as possible.

8. Egg Wash Magic: While not necessary for these sausage pinwheels, brush the pastry with an egg wash before baking for a gorgeous golden brown crust.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sausage Pinwheel Appetizers

Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?

Absolutely! While breakfast sausage is a classic choice, you can explore various options like Italian sausage, spicy chorizo, or even ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist. Remember to adjust seasonings depending on your chosen sausage.

Can I Make These Appetizers Ahead of Time?

Yes! Prepare the pinwheels as instructed, but stop before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual, or bake from frozen and just add a few extra minutes to your baking time.

What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Pinwheels?

Mustard, honey mustard, marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a simple Dijon and sour cream mixture all make excellent dipping companions for these savory bites.

Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Filling?

Of course! I encourage you to adapt the recipe to your taste. Get creative and add chopped peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, fresh herbs like parsley or dill, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

My Pinwheels Aren't Puffing Up, What Went Wrong?

This could be due to several factors. Ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature and the puff pastry is chilled before baking. Avoid overworking the dough and use sharp cuts to prevent damage to the layers. 

How Can I Store Leftover Sausage Pinwheels?

Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. You can also freeze leftover pinwheels individually for convenient snacking later.

The Sausage Pinwheels Appetizer Recipe  

Superbowl appetizers, party food, tasty bites
snack, appetizers
American
Yield: 40
Author: Donna Urso
Sausage Pinwheels Appetizers

Sausage Pinwheels Appetizers

A crisp, savory, puff pastry appetizer filled with sausage and cheese.
Prep time: 30 MinCook time: 20 MinTotal time: 50 Min

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Brown the pork sausage in a large skillet over medium heat with the onion and garlic. Add the chopped fresh spinach and stir until the spinach wilts. Set the mixture aside to cool.
  2. Mix the sausage mixture into the cream cheese stirring to thoroughly combine. Add the scallions, cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese. Mix well.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Lay the thawed puff pastry on your lightly floured counter. Spread half of the sausage mixture on one piece of the puff pastry, spreading to the edge. Make sure the sausage forms an even layer on the pastry.
  4. Roll the one end of the pastry over itself, jelly-roll style. Cut the roll into half-inch slices. Place the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Bake the sausage pinwheels on the center rack of your oven for 15-20 minutes until puffed, browned, and crisp. Cool in the pan to allow the pinwheels to firm up. Serve warm.

Recommended Products

USA Half Sheet Pans
7-inch Santoku Knife
Garlic Press

Nutrition Facts

Calories

127.84

Fat (grams)

9.86 g

Sat. Fat (grams)

3.42 g

Carbs (grams)

6.16 g

Fiber (grams)

0.28 g

Net carbs

5.88 g

Sugar (grams)

0.31 g

Protein (grams)

3.68 g

Sodium (milligrams)

144.45 mg

Cholesterol (grams)

14.54 mg

Please use this nutritional information as a guide only.

Similar Recipes

Jalapeno Poppers Seven Ways

Easy Cheesy Stuffed Mushrooms

Chinese Chicken Wings

©Just One Donna

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