Sausage and Cream Cheese-filled Baked Pastries

Introduction

Welcome to this delightful recipe for sausage and cream cheese-filled baked pastries. If you’re looking for a savory and satisfying treat, you’ve come to the right place. These pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a party appetizer. The combination of sausage and cream cheese creates a creamy and flavorful filling that pairs perfectly with flaky pastry dough. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make these mouthwatering pastries.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

1 package of puff pastry sheets

1/2 pound of ground sausage

4 ounces of cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup of finely chopped onion

1/4 cup of finely chopped bell pepper

1 clove of garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon of dried rosemary

1/4 teaspoon of salt

1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Steps

Follow these steps to prepare and bake the sausage and cream cheese-filled pastries:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the pastries bake evenly and develop a golden brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside to cool.

In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic until they are softened and fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool.

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Pastries

Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into squares or rectangles, depending on your desired pastry size.

Spoon a generous amount of the sausage and cream cheese filling onto one half of each pastry square or rectangle. Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges together to seal.

Place the filled pastries onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each pastry to allow for expansion during baking.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Brush the pastries with the beaten egg to give them a shiny and golden finish. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.

Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few variations you can try:

Substitute the ground sausage with cooked bacon or diced ham for a different flavor profile.

Add some grated cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to the filling mixture for an extra cheesy twist.

Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Try adding a pinch of chili powder for a hint of heat.

Tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your sausage and cream cheese-filled pastries turn out perfectly:

Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will ensure a smooth and creamy filling.

Don’t overfill the pastries, as this can lead to leaks during baking. Use a spoon to portion the filling and leave enough space to seal the edges.

For a shiny and golden crust, brush the pastries with the beaten egg before baking.

Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth.

Conclusion

These sausage and cream cheese-filled baked pastries are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply looking for a tasty snack, these pastries will not disappoint. The combination of savory sausage, creamy cream cheese, and flaky pastry creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try and indulge in the delightful flavors of these baked pastries.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these pastries ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the pastries ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Simply follow the steps until assembling the pastries, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, brush with the beaten egg and bake as directed.

Q: Can I freeze the baked pastries?

A: Yes, you can freeze the baked pastries for future enjoyment. Let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, simply place the pastries in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Q: Can I use store-bought pastry dough?

A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time or prefer the convenience, store-bought puff pastry sheets work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for thawing and handling the dough.