Sausage and Cream Cheese-filled Baked Pastries are a delicious and savory snack or appetizer, perfect for parties, brunches, or any occasion where you need a tasty treat. These pastries typically consist of a flaky pastry dough filled with a mixture of cooked sausage and cream cheese. The combination of the savory sausage and the creamy, tangy cream cheese creates a rich, flavorful filling that complements the crisp pastry.
Here’s a basic recipe for making Sausage and Cream Cheese-filled Baked Pastries:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (about 450g) breakfast sausage (spicy or mild, depending on preference)
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend works well)
- 1 package of puff pastry (usually comes with 2 sheets, thawed if frozen)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: herbs or spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the sausage until it is browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
- Make the Filling:
- Let the cooked sausage cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, combine the sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, and any optional spices (like garlic powder or onion powder). Stir well until everything is evenly mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into smaller squares or rectangles, depending on your desired size for the pastries (typically 3-4 inches in size).
- Fill and Seal the Pastry:
- Place a spoonful of the sausage and cream cheese filling in the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the edges of the pastry over to enclose the filling, forming a pocket or turnover. Pinch the edges together to seal the pastry.
- Egg Wash:
- Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the top of each pastry with the egg wash to give them a golden, shiny finish when baked.
- Bake the Pastries:
- Place the filled and sealed pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
- Serve:
- Let the pastries cool for a few minutes before serving. These are great on their own or with a dipping sauce, such as mustard, ranch dressing, or hot sauce.
Enjoy these delicious and savory baked pastries as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack!