Sausage Pinwheels

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Introduction

Sausage Pinwheels are a savory, bite-sized appetizer that brings the perfect balance of flavors and textures to any occasion. These little rolls feature tender sausage wrapped in a flaky, buttery puff pastry, creating a delicious contrast with every bite. The slightly spicy sausage, seasoned to perfection, pairs beautifully with the light, crispy pastry, making these pinwheels a crowd favorite at parties, gatherings, or even as a fun snack for the family.

The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, and they’re always a hit. I first made these Sausage Pinwheels for a New Year’s Eve party, and they were devoured in no time. The warm aroma of sausage and pastry baking together filled the air, drawing guests to the kitchen every few minutes, eager for a taste. It’s the kind of recipe that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen—a great combination of simplicity and flavor.

Not only can you customize the filling by experimenting with different types of sausage or adding extra spices, but these pinwheels also reheat well, making them perfect for meal prepping or as leftovers. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or enjoying them as a satisfying snack, Sausage Pinwheels are sure to become a go-to recipe in your collection.

Perfect For

These Sausage Pinwheels are great for a variety of occasions such as game days, birthdays, holiday parties, or family gatherings. They’re a perfect option for appetizers or finger foods, providing a delicious and satisfying bite in every pinwheel. They’re also ideal for breakfast or brunch when you want something quick, tasty, and filling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make:
    • This recipe is the definition of simplicity. With a quick prep time and minimal steps, you’ll have these flavorful pinwheels ready in no time. The straightforward instructions make it easy for both beginner and experienced cooks alike to assemble the dish, and with just a few staple ingredients, you won’t be overwhelmed with a long shopping list. Whether you’re short on time or looking for an easy recipe to prepare with the kids, these pinwheels are a fast and satisfying solution. Their simplicity means they’re always a reliable go-to when you want a delicious snack without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Versatile:
    • One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. The sausage filling can be easily customized to suit any flavor preferences you have. You can switch up the seasoning by adding different spices like garlic powder, thyme, or paprika for more depth of flavor. If you enjoy particular cheeses, like mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack, simply add them to the sausage mixture to create a cheesy surprise. You can even experiment with adding vegetables such as finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor. This versatility allows you to make these pinwheels your own and try out countless combinations until you find your perfect version.
  • Crowd Favorite:
    • These pinwheels are always a hit, no matter the occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family picnic, or serving a snack at a casual gathering, these little delights are bound to impress. Their bite-sized portions make them easy to share, while their flavorful filling and golden, crispy exterior ensure they’re irresistibly delicious. Because they’re loved by adults and kids alike, they’re perfect for everything from game day spreads to casual get-togethers, and they’re sure to be gone within minutes. Their crowd-pleasing nature makes them the perfect recipe for those times when you need a guaranteed winner.
  • Pork-Free Option:
    • For those who avoid pork, this recipe provides a fantastic alternative. You can easily swap the typical pork sausage for chicken sausage or turkey sausage, both of which provide a lighter yet equally satisfying filling. The seasoning and flavor from these alternative sausages still work beautifully in this recipe, ensuring that the pinwheels stay just as delicious as the original. This makes the recipe suitable for a variety of dietary restrictions, whether for religious, health, or personal reasons. Now, everyone can enjoy these tasty pinwheels without compromise!

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 12-16 pinwheels
  • Calories Per Serving: Approximately 140 calories
  • Key Nutrients Per Serving:
    • Protein: 6g
    • Carbohydrates: 14g
    • Fat: 8g
    • Fiber: 1g
    • Sugars: 2g

Ingredients

For the Sausage Filling:

  • 1 lb ground turkey or chicken sausage (pork-free)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pinwheels:

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Turkey or Chicken Sausage: A healthier alternative to pork sausage, providing lean protein with great flavor.
  • Puff Pastry: Light and flaky, the puff pastry adds a wonderful crunch to complement the savory sausage filling.
  • Herbs and Spices: Dried thyme, oregano, and paprika add depth of flavor to the sausage without overpowering the other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Sausage Filling:

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey or chicken sausage over medium heat. Use a spatula to break it into small pieces while cooking.
  2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the sausage, and cook until the onions soften and become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and fragrant. Set the mixture aside to cool slightly.

Assembling the Pinwheels:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a clean surface. If using store-bought pastry, ensure it’s thawed to room temperature.
  3. Spread the cooled sausage mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
  4. Starting from one edge, tightly roll the puff pastry into a log or cylinder shape.
  5. Slice the rolled pastry into 12-16 individual pinwheels, depending on the size you prefer.

Baking the Pinwheels:

  1. Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, brush each with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish while baking.
  2. Bake the pinwheels in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
  3. Remove from the oven and let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve

Serve the Sausage Pinwheels as an appetizer or snack at your next gathering. They’re perfect for dipping in sauces such as ranch, mustard, or a creamy cheese dip. These pinwheels can also be served as part of a brunch spread or as a savory breakfast bite.

Additional Tips

  • Add Cheese: For an extra twist, sprinkle shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, over the sausage filling before rolling up the pastry.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or basil, for a unique flavor.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the pinwheels a day in advance, then store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving for fresh, warm pinwheels.

Recipe Variations

  • Vegetarian Sausage Pinwheels:
    • For a plant-based twist on the traditional sausage pinwheels, you can easily substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu. Plant-based sausage comes in a variety of flavors and textures, mimicking traditional sausage, so you can still enjoy that savory, spiced filling without the meat. Alternatively, crumbled tofu works well when seasoned with your favorite spices, providing a similar texture and ability to soak up flavor, making it a great meat alternative. This vegetarian variation offers a delicious, protein-packed option while keeping the same beloved flavor and texture of the original recipe, making it perfect for vegetarians or those looking to reduce meat consumption.
  • Spicy Sausage Pinwheels:
    • If you like a little extra heat, turning these pinwheels into a spicy version is incredibly easy. Simply add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for a kick, or incorporate some hot sauce directly into the filling to adjust the heat to your liking. For those who love fiery flavors, you could also experiment with spicier sausage varieties, such as chorizo or hot Italian sausage, to boost the heat level even further. The spicy version of these pinwheels adds bold, flavorful heat that pairs beautifully with the savory sausage, creating a snack that has the perfect balance of heat and richness, ideal for those who enjoy a little spice.
  • Cheese Stuffed Sausage Pinwheels:
    • Cheese lovers will appreciate this variation, where you can stuff the sausage mixture with shredded cheese to make a gooey, melty filling. Adding cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of your favorite cheeses gives the pinwheels a rich, creamy center that contrasts wonderfully with the seasoned sausage. As the pinwheels bake, the cheese melts and becomes deliciously gooey, making each bite even more indulgent. Whether you choose to mix the cheese directly into the sausage filling or place a piece of cheese inside the sausage layer, this cheesy version adds an extra layer of flavor and texture that makes these pinwheels extra comforting.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
  • Freezing: You can also freeze unbaked sausage pinwheels. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to an airtight container. Bake from frozen for 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Special Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rolling pin (if needed)
  • Pastry brush

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use puff pastry dough that’s not pre-rolled?
A: Yes! If you have puff pastry dough that isn’t pre-rolled, simply roll it out to about 1/4-inch thick before adding the filling.

Q: Can I make these without puff pastry?
A: Yes! You can substitute puff pastry with pie crust or crescent roll dough for different textures and flavors.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare these ahead of time, then bake them just before you need to serve. You can refrigerate or freeze them before baking as well.

Conclusion

Sausage Pinwheels are a savory, satisfying treat that offers a perfect blend of flavorful sausage, cheese, and herbs wrapped in a flaky pastry. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger meal, these pinwheels are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their warm, cheesy filling and golden-brown crust make them irresistible to both kids and adults.

These versatile snacks can be easily tailored to your taste preferences—swap in different types of sausage or cheese, or add in some herbs for a personalized touch. They’re simple to prepare yet feel indulgent, making them a must-try for any recipe collection.

Make a batch today, and enjoy the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake! Be sure to share your success on Instagram and tag me—I can’t wait to see your creations. Happy baking!

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