Ready in: 45 minutes · Serves: 12 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
These Sausage Pinwheels are easy to make, delicious, and perfect for holiday gatherings.
As the vibrant leaves of autumn fill the streets of New York City and the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg wafts through cozy bakeries, I find myself drawn into the kitchen, crafting snacks that can elevate any gathering—especially with Thanksgiving and Christmas on the horizon. One of my all-time favorites that never fails to impress is these delightful Sausage Pinwheels. They’re not only a breeze to whip up but offer a comforting warmth that makes them perfect for holiday entertaining.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
These Sausage Pinwheels bring warmth and flavor to any festive occasion, making them an ideal addition to your holiday spread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Deliciously savory with a cheesy filling that everyone will love.
- Versatile appetizer for holidays, parties, or casual snacking.
- Can be paired with various dipping sauces for added flavor.
- Leftovers heat up beautifully, maintaining their crispy texture.
Ingredients
Gather these quality ingredients to make your Sausage Pinwheels:
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound of spicy Italian sausage (or your favorite sausage)
- 1 package of refrigerated puff pastry (two sheets)
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (I love using sharp cheddar)
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon of dried Italian herbs (like oregano and basil)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Flour (for dusting)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Sausage Pinwheels (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create your delightful Sausage Pinwheels:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
First, I preheat my oven to 400°F. I then dust my work surface with flour, creating the perfect little workspace for the puff pastry.
Step 2: Sausage Filling
In a medium bowl, I remove the casing from the Italian sausage and break it into pieces. Mixing in the shredded cheese, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper, the fragrant blend comes together beautifully.
Step 3: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
I roll out the thawed puff pastry until it’s about an eighth of an inch thick. This process is therapeutic; I slice each sheet into rectangles, each about 4×6 inches.
Step 4: Assemble the Pinwheels
Spoon the sausage mixture into the center of each rectangle, leaving a little space at the sides. I roll the pastry tightly, tucking in the ends to seal in the savory goodness.
Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash
I whisk together the egg and a splash of water and brush this mixture over the pinwheels for a beautiful golden color.
Step 6: Bake
I place the pinwheels on a lined baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven, setting the timer for 20 minutes. The irresistible smell wafts through my apartment as they bake.
Step 7: Serve Warm
After letting them cool slightly, I serve the pinwheels warm, allowing the cheese to ooze a bit with each bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using thawed puff pastry straight from the fridge: This can make it hard to roll out without cracking. Let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature before working with it.
- Overfilling the pinwheels: Too much filling can lead to explosion-like results in the oven! Stick to a small spoonful for each one.
- Skipping the egg wash: Your pinwheels may bake up pale, leaving them looking less appetizing. A simple egg wash makes all the difference!
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Pair these pinwheels with a zesty dipping sauce like marinara or a creamy ranch to enhance the flavor.
- For an extra kick, you can add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling.
- These pinwheels make for great appetizers or snacks at any holiday gathering or game day party!
Variations
- Substitute spicy Italian sausage with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Replace sharp cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or parsley in the filling for added freshness.
How to Serve
- Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces.
- Arrange on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.
- Perfect for game day parties, holidays, or any casual gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sausage filling in advance and refrigerate for up to a day before assembling the pinwheels.
- Storage: Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: Reheat them in an oven for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
- Freezing: Assemble the pinwheels and freeze them before baking. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through countless batches, I discovered that the right balance of seasoning in the sausage filling is key. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of watching friends and family enjoy a dish I’ve crafted with care. These Sausage Pinwheels are not just tasty; they’re filled with the warmth of shared moments.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 24 pinwheels · Serving Size: 2 pinwheels
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~200 calories · 9g protein · 15g carbs · 13g fat
Delicious Sausage Pinwheels for Any Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and dust your work surface with flour.
- Remove the casing from the sausage and mix in the cheese, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry until about an eighth of an inch thick.
- Cut the pastry into rectangles, spoon the sausage mixture into each, roll tightly, and tuck in the ends.
- Brush the rolled pinwheels with the egg wash for a golden color.
- Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes until golden and delicious.
- Cool slightly and serve warm, allowing the cheese to ooze with each bite.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of sausage for the pinwheels?
Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage that you prefer, such as chicken, turkey, or a vegetarian option. Just ensure it is fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients.
2. How can I make the pinwheels more flavorful?
For added flavor, consider incorporating different herbs or spices into the filling, such as smoked paprika or fresh parsley. You can also mix in other cheese varieties like mozzarella or pepper jack for an extra kick.
3. Can I prepare the pinwheels in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time. Assemble them and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are coming straight from the fridge.
4. What dipping sauces go well with sausage pinwheels?
These pinwheels pair wonderfully with zesty marinara, creamy ranch, or even a spicy mustard. Feel free to experiment with your favorite sauces!
5. How should I store leftover sausage pinwheels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat them and retain their crispiness, bake them in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F.
