Baked Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

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Sometimes, I just want something warm, flaky, and outrageously comforting straight from the oven—and these Baked Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents absolutely deliver. It all started as a brunch experiment that quickly became one of my most requested dishes. From lazy Sunday breakfasts to quick potluck hits, this recipe has saved the day more times than I can count.

The blend of creamy cheese, savory sausage, and buttery crescent dough is the kind of thing people go quiet for, just to savor every bite. I love how it’s not overly complicated yet feels indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for mornings when you need a little extra joy or even evenings when a full dinner feels like too much effort.

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe

These crescents are more than just a snack—they’re crave-worthy comfort food that works for breakfast, lunch, or a cozy party bite. They bake to golden perfection with minimal prep and use ingredients you probably already have on hand. Plus, they’re super customizable, freezer-friendly, and disappear fast. What’s not to love?

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What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?

You can use just about any ground sausage in this recipe, depending on the flavor profile you’re going for. I usually go with classic breakfast sausage because of its mild, savory balance that pairs well with the cream cheese. If you’re craving something spicier, a hot or Italian sausage brings a nice kick. Turkey or chicken sausage also works beautifully for a lighter option. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and well-drained to avoid soggy crescents.

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Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. Here are a few great swaps and tweaks:

• Cream Cheese: You can use Neufchâtel for a lower-fat version, or flavored cream cheeses like chive or jalapeño to mix things up.
• Crescent Dough: If you’re out of crescent rolls, puff pastry sheets or even biscuit dough flattened out can do the trick.
• Cheese Boost: Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for an extra cheesy pull.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and try sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a meatless crumble for a veggie-friendly twist.
• Herbs & Spices: Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, or crushed red pepper to amp up the flavor of the filling.

This dish is built for experimentation, and it still turns out delicious every time.

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Ingredients for This Baked Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe

• Ground Sausage: This is the heart of the filling—savory, juicy, and full of rich, meaty flavor. Make sure it’s browned and crumbled before mixing.
• Cream Cheese: It adds that creamy, tangy richness that binds everything together. Softened cream cheese melts beautifully with the sausage.
• Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough: This gives you that irresistible flaky, buttery outer layer with no need to make dough from scratch. It’s a time-saver and always reliable.
• Shredded Cheese (optional): A handful of cheddar or mozzarella gives a meltier, gooier texture inside. Totally optional, but I love the cheesy bonus.
• Dried Herbs (like oregano or parsley): A quick sprinkle on top before baking adds flavor and makes them look extra appetizing.

Each ingredient plays its part in creating that savory, melty, crisp-topped bite that makes these crescents unforgettable.

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Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by browning your ground sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Use a spatula to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once it’s fully browned, drain off any excess grease to keep the filling rich but not oily.

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Step 2: Mix in the Cream Cheese

With the heat off, stir the softened cream cheese directly into the hot sausage. The warmth of the meat will melt the cheese into a smooth, creamy blend. If you’re adding shredded cheese, now’s the time to toss it in.

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Step 3: Prep the Dough

Unroll your crescent dough onto a clean surface. Separate it into individual triangles or rectangles (depending on the brand and style), and gently press any seams together if using full dough sheets.

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Step 4: Add the Filling

Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the sausage mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Be careful not to overfill—it makes rolling a little tricky and can lead to leaks.

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Step 5: Roll Them Up

Roll the dough around the filling, starting from the wide end and tucking the edges in as you go. You want them snug so the filling stays inside while baking.

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Step 6: Add Toppings

Place the rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with a bit of melted butter or egg wash if desired, then sprinkle with dried herbs or even sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.

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Step 7: Bake

Pop the tray into a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake until golden brown—usually 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops are crisp and beautifully golden.

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How Long to Cook the Baked Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

These crescents bake quickly, making them perfect for busy mornings or last-minute guests.

Bake time: 12 to 15 minutes
Oven temperature: 375°F (190°C)
You’re looking for that golden, lightly crisp exterior. Depending on your oven, keep a close eye starting around the 11-minute mark. If you’re using puff pastry instead of crescent dough, you may need to add 2–3 extra minutes for full puff and browning.

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Tips for Perfect Baked Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents

• Drain the sausage well: Too much grease will make the crescents soggy. A paper towel or mesh strainer helps remove extra fat after browning.
• Soften the cream cheese: Let it sit at room temperature for easier mixing. This ensures a smooth, creamy filling without lumps.
• Seal the edges properly: Press seams closed and tuck in the sides when rolling. This keeps the filling from spilling out during baking.
• Chill the dough briefly if needed: If your dough gets too warm while prepping, refrigerate it for 5 minutes to firm it back up. This helps maintain the shape during baking.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Customize the seasoning: A pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a flavorful twist to the sausage mixture.

These little tips make a big difference between just good and absolutely crave-worthy.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple recipe like Baked Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents has a few potential pitfalls. Here’s what to avoid:

• Overfilling the dough: It’s tempting, but too much filling can cause the crescents to burst or leak while baking.
• Skipping the draining step: Extra grease from the sausage can seep into the dough, making it soggy instead of flaky.
• Not sealing the edges well: Loose edges will unroll in the oven and spill the filling. Pinch the dough securely.
• Using cold cream cheese straight from the fridge: It won’t mix smoothly and can create chunks instead of a creamy filling.
• Crowding the pan: Give each crescent some breathing room so the heat can circulate and brown them evenly.
• Baking on bare metal: Go with parchment or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.

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What to Serve With Baked Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents?

These are delicious on their own, but pairing them can turn a snack into a full meal. Here are some great ideas:

Fresh Fruit Salad

A mix of melons, berries, and citrus helps balance the richness of the crescents with a juicy, refreshing bite.

Scrambled Eggs or Omelet

Add a protein boost and turn it into a satisfying brunch. You can even prep the eggs while the crescents bake.

Smoothies

A berry-banana or tropical green smoothie adds color, flavor, and a healthy edge to your plate.

Simple Arugula or Spinach Salad

A light salad with lemon vinaigrette contrasts nicely with the warm, buttery crescents.

Coffee or Iced Latte

A classic pairing for breakfast or brunch, especially if you’re enjoying these in the morning.

Tomato Basil Soup

Surprisingly comforting with crescents, especially if you’re serving them for lunch or dinner.

Hash Browns or Breakfast Potatoes

If you want to go full diner-style, crispy potatoes on the side are always a hit.

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Storage Instructions

Leftover Baked Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents store wonderfully and reheat without losing their charm. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigerator: Place cooled crescents in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each crescent individually in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
• To Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen crescents, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Avoid microwaving if you can—it tends to make the pastry chewy instead of crisp.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown for one crescent (based on a batch of 8 using standard ingredients):

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 410mg
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 7g

Keep in mind these numbers can vary based on the type of sausage, cheese, and dough you use. For a lighter version, go with turkey sausage and reduced-fat cream cheese.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cream cheese works best?

Full-fat cream cheese delivers the richest flavor and creamiest texture, but you can also use reduced-fat or whipped versions if you’re lightening things up. Just avoid fat-free—it’s too watery and won’t hold up well in the filling.

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Can I make these crescents ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep and fill them, then store unbaked crescents in the fridge (covered) for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve. You can also freeze them unbaked and bake from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cook time.

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Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?

Absolutely. Puff pastry adds an extra level of flakiness and is a great alternative. Just cut it into squares, add the filling, fold into triangles or roll, and bake until golden.

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How do I keep the crescents from opening while baking?

Make sure to roll them tightly, press the edges to seal, and place them seam-side down on the baking tray. A light egg wash can also help glue the edges together.

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Can I reheat them in the microwave?

You can, but the texture won’t be the same. The microwave tends to soften the pastry. If you’re in a hurry, go for it, but the oven or toaster oven is best for restoring crispness.

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Are these spicy?

Not inherently. If you use mild breakfast sausage and plain cream cheese, they’re very kid-friendly. Want a kick? Use spicy sausage or stir in some chopped jalapeños.

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Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or finely chopped bell peppers mix in nicely. Just make sure any veggies are cooked and moisture is drained to keep the crescents from getting soggy.

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How do I serve them for a party?

Make a double batch and cut each crescent in half after baking for smaller, bite-size servings. They’re a hit on appetizer platters with a few dipping sauces like honey mustard or spicy ranch.

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Conclusion

These Baked Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are the kind of feel-good food that people ask about after the first bite. Whether you’re whipping them up for breakfast, brunch, game day, or a simple snack, they always hit the spot. Comforting, quick, and endlessly adaptable, they’re a go-to in my kitchen—and once you try them, I bet they’ll be in yours too.

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