The combination of savory sausage, flaky pastry, and creamy cream cheese creates a breakfast sensation that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. This recipe elevates the classic sausage roll to a gourmet level, perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick and delicious weekday breakfast. Let's dive into the details and explore some variations!
What Makes This Sausage Roll Special?
This recipe isn't your average sausage roll. The addition of cream cheese adds a delightful tanginess and creaminess that perfectly complements the rich flavor of the sausage. The cream cheese also helps to keep the sausage moist and prevents it from drying out during baking. We'll be focusing on achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures, resulting in a breakfast treat that's both comforting and sophisticated.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Sausage Filling:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (your favorite kind!)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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For the Pastry:
- 1 package (14.1 oz) refrigerated puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Sausage Filling: In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in the softened cream cheese, onion, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined and the cream cheese is melted into the sausage. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
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Assemble the Sausage Rolls: On a lightly floured surface, gently unfold the puff pastry. Spread the cooled sausage mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving about a half-inch border on one of the long sides.
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Roll and Cut: Starting from the opposite long side, tightly roll the pastry up, jelly-roll style. Use a sharp knife to cut the roll into 1-inch thick slices.
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Bake: Place the sausage rolls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
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Serve: Let the sausage rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of breakfast sausage, such as Italian sausage, chorizo, or even turkey sausage. The flavor profile will change slightly depending on your choice of sausage, but all will be delicious.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sausage rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake them. Just add a few minutes to the baking time.
What other herbs and spices can I add?
You can customize the flavor of your sausage rolls by adding other herbs and spices. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or some dried thyme or rosemary for an earthy flavor.
Are these sausage rolls freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked sausage rolls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding about 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different type of pastry?
While puff pastry provides the best flaky texture, you could experiment with other pastry doughs, such as a homemade pie crust or even crescent roll dough. However, keep in mind that the final result might have a different texture.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Variations
- Spicy Sausage Roll: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the sausage filling for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Sausage Roll: Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese into the sausage filling for extra cheesiness.
- Sweet & Savory Sausage Roll: Add a teaspoon of maple syrup or brown sugar to the sausage filling for a subtle sweetness that complements the savory sausage.
This breakfast sausage roll with cream cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Experiment with different flavors and make it your own! Enjoy!
