Looking for a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an appetizer? These Sausage and Cream Cheese-filled Baked Pastries are just what you need. Encased in flaky puff pastry and bursting with a creamy, savory filling, they’re easy to make yet impressive enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or need a quick dish for a family meal, these pastries deliver flavor and satisfaction in every bite. Let’s dive into this simple yet delightful recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 package puff pastry sheets (thawed if frozen)
- 225g (8 oz) sausage (ground, or use sausage links with casings removed)
- 225g (8 oz) cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs like chives or parsley for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Break it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon while cooking.
- Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled sausage, softened cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. For extra depth, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder.
Step 3: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the puff pastry sheets to smooth out any creases. Each sheet should be about 1/8 inch thick.
- Cut the pastry into equal-sized squares or rectangles, approximately 4×4 inches.
Step 4: Assemble the Pastries
- Place a heaping tablespoon of the sausage and cream cheese filling in the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle, depending on the shape of your cut. Press the edges together with your fingers or a fork to seal.
- Repeat with the remaining pastry squares and filling.
Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash
- Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg. This will give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
Step 6: Bake
- Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a plant-based sausage alternative.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing: Assemble the pastries and freeze them unbaked. When ready to serve, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
These Sausage and Cream Cheese-filled Baked Pastries are a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The buttery, flaky puff pastry pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy filling, making each bite irresistibly delicious. Perfect for entertaining or a quick family treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Try it today and enjoy the compliments that follow!