These golden, flaky croissants are filled with a savory sausage and cheese mixture, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. The buttery pastry combined with the rich, seasoned sausage creates a deliciously irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (8 oz) puff pastry sheets (thawed if frozen)
- 1 lb ground sausage (mild, spicy, or your preference)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the cooked sausage with shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and parsley (if using). Stir well to create a creamy, cheesy sausage mixture.
- Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into triangles (like croissant dough).
- Fill and Roll: Place a spoonful of the sausage mixture at the wider end of each triangle. Roll the dough from the wide end to the tip, forming a croissant shape.
- Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the croissants lightly with the egg wash to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Bake: Arrange the croissants on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Cool & Serve: Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Recipe Variations:
- Cheese Lovers’ Croissants:
- Try adding a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for extra gooeyness.
- Spicy Kick:
- Use spicy Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Herb-Infused Flavor:
- Add fresh herbs like chopped rosemary or thyme to the sausage mixture for a more aromatic taste.
- Breakfast Croissants:
- Mix in scrambled eggs with the sausage filling for a heartier breakfast version.
- Sweet & Savory:
- Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the baked croissants for a contrast of flavors.
- Vegetarian Option:
- Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and feta cheese.
Additional Tips:
✔ Use Fresh Puff Pastry:
- If using frozen puff pastry, let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours before rolling it out.
✔ Don’t Overstuff:
- Adding too much filling can make it hard to roll and may cause the croissants to burst while baking.
✔ Brush with Butter for Extra Flavor:
- For an even richer taste, brush the croissants with melted butter before serving.
✔ Make Ahead & Freeze:
- Assemble the croissants and freeze them before baking. When ready to bake, place them directly in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic aioli or mustard dipping sauce.
- Pair with a fresh arugula salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Enjoy with a latte, cappuccino, or fresh juice for a perfect brunch combo.
Nutritional Information (per croissant, approximate):
- Calories: 280-320
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 18g