Sausage Pinwheels Appetizer
Sausage Pinwheels Appetizer is a simple and delicious snack that brings together savory sausage, flaky puff pastry, and melty cheese all rolled up into bite-sized swirls. These little pinwheels are…
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Sausage Pinwheels Appetizer is a simple and delicious snack that brings together savory sausage, flaky puff pastry, and melty cheese all rolled up into bite-sized swirls. These little pinwheels are perfect for parties, game days, or just a fun finger food to share with family and friends.
I love making these because they come together so quickly and everyone seems to enjoy them. I usually mix the sausage with a bit of garlic and herbs before spreading it on the pastry, which gives the pinwheels a nice flavor without much effort. They bake up golden and crispy on the outside while staying soft and flavorful inside.
My favorite way to serve Sausage Pinwheels is with a side of mustard or a simple dipping sauce for an extra kick. They’re great warm but still tasty at room temperature, so they’re perfect for bringing along to gatherings or serving up as a casual appetizer at home. Plus, they’re so easy to eat with your hands, which makes them an instant hit with both kids and adults!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star for flaky, golden pinwheels. Use store-bought frozen sheets for ease. If unavailable, crescent roll dough can work but results in a softer texture.
Ground Sausage: Mild or spicy pork sausage works well. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken sausage. Season with your favorite herbs to boost flavor.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts nicely for gooey texture, while Parmesan adds sharpness. You can swap mozzarella for cheddar or provolone for a different twist.
Onion & Garlic: These add depth and aroma. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder is a fine substitute.
How Do I Roll and Slice the Puff Pastry Without It Tearing or Sticking?
Handling puff pastry gently is key for perfect pinwheels. Follow these tips:
- Work on a lightly floured surface to stop sticking, but don’t use too much flour.
- Roll the thawed pastry slowly, just enough to even it out and slightly enlarge the sheet.
- Spread the filling evenly but avoid overfilling; too much can cause tearing.
- Roll tightly but gently from one long edge to make a firm log.
- Use a sharp, clean knife and cut in one smooth motion to keep edges neat.
- If the dough softens too much while cutting, chill the log for 10 minutes before slicing.
These steps help keep your pinwheels shaped perfectly and ready for baking with that crisp, puffed texture we all love.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – big enough to space out pinwheels so they bake evenly without sticking together.
- Parchment paper – stops the pinwheels from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Nonstick skillet – perfect for cooking the sausage and softening onions without burning.
- Sharp chef’s knife – helps you slice the rolled pastry into clean, even pinwheels.
- Rolling pin – useful for gently flattening the puff pastry if it’s not quite even.
- Pastry brush – for brushing egg wash that gives pinwheels a golden, shiny finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for cooked crumbled bacon or diced ham if you want a smokier flavor.
- Add chopped spinach or finely diced bell peppers to the sausage mix for some fresh veggie bites.
- Try swapping mozzarella for pepper jack cheese for a little extra kick and creaminess.
- Sprinkle chili flakes or smoked paprika into the sausage filling to boost warmth and depth.
How to Make Sausage Pinwheels Appetizer?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- ½ pound ground sausage (mild or spicy, your preference)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage Filling:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry into a rough rectangle. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the pastry.
3. Assemble and Slice:
Spread the cooked sausage mixture evenly over the cheese layer on the puff pastry. Carefully roll the pastry from one long edge to the other to form a tight log. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
4. Bake the Pinwheels:
Place the pinwheels cut-side up on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to help them brown nicely. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden, and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve:
Remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with extra chopped parsley. Serve warm with marinara sauce if you like for dipping.
Enjoy these tasty, cheesy sausage pinwheels as a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry Directly?
It’s best to thaw the puff pastry completely before using—usually overnight in the fridge or about 30-40 minutes at room temperature. This makes it easier to roll out and prevents tearing.
Can I Substitute the Sausage?
Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even cooked crumbled bacon instead of sausage. Just adjust the seasoning to keep the flavor balanced.
How Should I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to keep the pastry crispy.
Can I Prepare Sausage Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and slice the pinwheels, then cover and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Bake them fresh when your guests arrive for best texture and flavor.
