Looking for a lighter twist on the classic Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents? Swap out traditional sausage for chicken sausage to create a delicious, savory treat with a healthier spin! These flaky crescent rolls are stuffed with a creamy and zesty filling made with chicken sausage, cream cheese, and Rotel tomatoes. They’re perfect for game nights, holiday appetizers, or just as a quick and satisfying snack. Let’s bake up something amazing!
Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
These crescent rolls are a delicious fusion of creamy, savory, and zesty flavors. Imagine buttery crescent dough wrapped around a creamy chicken sausage and Rotel tomato filling, baked to golden perfection. The chicken sausage adds a lighter, leaner protein option while still delivering plenty of flavor. These are perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to family movie nights. Serve them warm for the ultimate cozy bite!
Why Our Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Are the Best
Our Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents bring all the flavor you love, with a lighter twist. The lean chicken sausage, creamy filling, and zesty Rotel tomatoes are wrapped in flaky crescent dough, making them an irresistible and slightly healthier option for your appetizer table.
Ingredients Notes for Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
Every ingredient plays an essential role in making these crescents deliciously addictive:
- 1 pound ground chicken sausage: A lean and flavorful alternative to traditional pork sausage. Use mild or spicy depending on your preference.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese (softened): Creamy and tangy, the perfect base for the filling.
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (drained): Adds a zesty and slightly spicy kick.
- 2 (8-ounce) cans crescent roll dough: The buttery, flaky exterior that holds everything together.
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/4 cup shredded pepper jack or cheddar cheese: For an extra cheesy twist.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach: A nutritious boost that blends seamlessly into the filling.
Substitutions:
- Want a dairy-free version? Use plant-based cream cheese.
- For a spicier kick, use hot Rotel or add diced jalapeños to the filling.
Kitchen Tools Needed for Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
To make these crescents, you’ll need:
- A large skillet to cook the chicken sausage.
- A mixing bowl to combine the filling.
- A baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- A spatula or spoon for spreading the filling.
How to Make Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
Follow these simple steps to make a batch of these irresistible crescents:
1. Preheat the oven.
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
2. Cook the chicken sausage.
In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken sausage over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess liquid or grease.
3. Mix the filling.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken sausage, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel tomatoes. Stir until everything is evenly mixed. If you’re adding cheese, seasonings, or spinach, stir them in at this stage.
4. Prepare the crescent rolls.
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles. Place a spoonful (about 1-2 tablespoons) of the chicken sausage mixture on the wide end of each triangle.
5. Roll and shape.
Carefully roll each crescent from the wide end to the pointed tip, enclosing the filling. Place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake to golden perfection.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crescents are golden brown and fully cooked.
7. Serve and enjoy!
Let the crescents cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or spicy queso.
How to Store Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
Store leftover crescents in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave them for 20-30 seconds. You can also freeze the unbaked crescents for up to 3 months and bake them fresh when needed.
Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents Variations
Here are some fun and flavorful variations to try:
- Southwest Flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon cumin and chopped cilantro to the filling for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Breakfast Crescents: Mix scrambled eggs with the chicken sausage filling for a hearty breakfast option.
- Buffalo Style: Add 2 tablespoons of buffalo sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Veggie Lovers: Add chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
What to Serve with Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
These crescents are a treat on their own, but pairing them with the right sides takes them to the next level:
- Dipping sauces: Serve with ranch, salsa, or a spicy queso dip for added flavor.
- Fresh salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a light and balanced meal.
- Soup pairing: Enjoy these crescents alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup or chicken tortilla soup for a comforting combination.
Top Tips for Perfect Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
- Drain the Rotel well: Excess liquid can make the filling too wet and cause leaks during baking.
- Don’t overfill: Use just enough filling to avoid the crescents bursting during baking.
- Seal the edges: Pinch the edges tightly to ensure the filling stays inside.
- Use softened cream cheese: It mixes more easily with the sausage and Rotel, creating a smooth filling.
- Bake until golden: Keep an eye on them in the oven to ensure they turn perfectly golden brown without burning.
Helpful Notes
- You can prep the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- If you’re making these for a crowd, double the recipe—they disappear quickly!
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ree Drummond: “Brush the tops of crescent rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning for an extra touch.”
- Rachael Ray: “Use pre-cooked chicken sausage links to save time—just chop them finely before mixing with the filling.”
- Guy Fieri: “For added flavor, grill the chicken sausage first before crumbling it into the filling.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken sausage?
Yes! Simply chop or crumble pre-cooked chicken sausage and mix it with the cream cheese and Rotel.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble them up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake fresh when ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze the unbaked crescents?
Yes! Freeze the filled crescents on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
4. Can I make them spicier?
Absolutely! Use hot Rotel, spicy chicken sausage, or add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
5. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough?
Yes, puff pastry works great and adds a flaky, buttery texture.
Now that you’ve got everything you need, it’s time to bake these incredible Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents. Light, flavorful, and satisfying, they’ll be the star of any table. Enjoy!
Rotel Sausage and Cream Cheese Crescents
Ingredients
- – 1/2 pound ground sausage mild, spicy, or your preference
- – 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- – 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
- – 1 10-ounce can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- – 2 8-ounce cans crescent roll dough
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, and drained Rotel. Mix until well blended.
- Assemble Crescents: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. Place a spoonful of the chicken and sausage mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons) on the wide end of each triangle. Roll up the crescent dough, starting at the wide end and tucking the sides as you roll to seal the filling inside.
- Bake: Place the crescents on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm!
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option for shredded chicken.
- For added flavor, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the filling before rolling the crescents.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes for the best texture.