If you’re searching for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack, look no further than these Sausage and Cheese Crescent Rings. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or just a cozy evening at home, this dish delivers with its rich flavors and mouthwatering textures. Made with buttery crescent rolls, flavorful sausage, and melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Notes & Tips
• Variations
• Keto and Low-Carb Version
• FAQs
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage Filling

1. In a medium skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Break it apart with a spatula while cooking to ensure even browning.
2. Once cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet. Set the sausage aside to cool for a few minutes.

Step 2: Roll Out the Crescent Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a clean surface, unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles. Arrange the triangles in a circular shape on a parchment-lined baking sheet, with the pointed ends facing outwards, creating a “sun” shape.
3. Slightly overlap each triangle to ensure there are no gaps in the ring base.

Step 3: Assemble the Crescent Ring

1. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the wide ends of the crescent dough.
2. Spoon the cooked sausage evenly over the cheese layer.
3. Add the remaining cheese on top of the sausage.
4. Fold the pointed ends of the crescent dough over the filling, tucking them under the center of the ring to secure the filling.

Step 4: Bake the Crescent Ring

1. Brush the top of the crescent ring with a little melted butter or an egg wash for a golden crust.
2. Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes over the ring for extra flavor.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the crescent ring from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley before slicing and serving.
3. Enjoy this delicious ring with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara or ranch!

Cooking Notes & Tips

• Use High-Quality Sausage: Opt for good-quality sausage, as it makes a huge difference in flavor. You can use Italian sausage, breakfast sausage, or even spicy chorizo.
• Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the crescent ring with too much sausage or cheese, as it may be difficult to wrap and may result in the filling spilling out during baking.
• Dipping Sauces: This dish pairs well with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy mustard dip.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the sausage mixture for a spicy version.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or seasoned mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Breakfast Ring: Add scrambled eggs to the sausage mixture to make this crescent ring a great breakfast option.
• Different Cheeses: You can switch out the cheese for pepper jack, gouda, or any of your favorite melting cheeses for a different flavor profile.

Keto and Low-Carb Version

If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, you can still enjoy this delicious treat with a few modifications:

Ingredients for Keto Crescent Ring

• 1 lb ground sausage
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 batch of keto fathead dough (made from almond flour, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, and eggs)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Keto Dough: Make the fathead dough by melting mozzarella cheese and cream cheese together, then mixing in almond flour and an egg to form a dough. Roll the dough out on parchment paper.
2. Assemble: Follow the same process as in the regular recipe—arrange the dough into a ring shape, add sausage and cheese, and fold over to form a ring.
3. Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

This keto version retains all the delicious flavors while being low in carbs, making it a perfect option for those on a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make the Sausage and Cheese Crescent Ring Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the crescent ring and store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for entertaining when you want to minimize prep work.

2. Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

3. What Other Fillings Can I Use?

You can get creative with the fillings! Consider adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or even spinach. Just be mindful not to overfill the crescent ring to prevent spilling.

4. Can I Use Different Dough?

Yes! If you prefer, you can use puff pastry or pizza dough instead of crescent roll dough. Just adjust the baking time as needed.

Sausage and Cheese Crescent Rings are an irresistible and easy-to-make appetizer that works for nearly any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a party, preparing a snack for family movie night, or trying out the keto version, this recipe is sure to impress. Its buttery crescent dough, savory sausage, and melty cheese create the perfect combination of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more.

Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family. It’s time to take your snack game to the next level with this delightful crescent ring! If you have any questions or variations you love, feel free to leave a comment below. Enjoy!