Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls
Warm, golden, and irresistibly rich, Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are the definition of comfort wrapped in flaky perfection. Each bite delivers the savory depth of seasoned sausage mingled with silky cream cheese, all encased in buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crescent dough.
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a decadent, crowd-pleasing dish — perfect for breakfast gatherings, brunches, or cozy evening snacks. Its creamy, savory filling and crisp outer layers create a balance of textures that feels indulgent yet effortless.
It’s a recipe born for sharing — nostalgic, satisfying, and guaranteed to make any table feel more inviting.
Why People Will Love Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe
Comfort in Every Bite: The combination of warm sausage and creamy cheese wrapped in buttery crescent dough delivers pure comfort — a nostalgic flavor that feels like home.
Rich, Savory, and Addictive: The balance of salty sausage, velvety cream cheese, and golden pastry creates a flavor harmony that’s both indulgent and deeply satisfying.
Effortless Yet Impressive: Despite its gourmet taste, this recipe comes together quickly with minimal prep — perfect for busy mornings, parties, or last-minute gatherings.
Perfect Texture Contrast: Flaky, crisp pastry on the outside meets a creamy, luscious filling inside, offering the ultimate contrast that keeps you reaching for another bite.
Crowd-Pleasing Classic: Loved by both kids and adults, these rolls are versatile enough for breakfast, brunch, game nights, or potlucks — always the first to disappear from the tray.
Key Ingredients:
Crescent Roll Dough: Buttery and flaky, it forms the golden layers that cradle the filling, creating a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth pastry shell.
Pork Sausage Crumbles: Rich, savory, and full-bodied, the sausage adds depth and heartiness, infusing every bite with a satisfying umami flavor.
Cream Cheese: Smooth, velvety, and slightly tangy, it binds the filling together, creating a creamy texture that balances the saltiness of the sausage and the richness of the dough.
Expert Tips:
Drain the Sausage Well: After browning, make sure to thoroughly drain the sausage to prevent excess grease from seeping into the dough. This keeps your crescent rolls crisp instead of soggy.
Use Softened Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing — it melts more smoothly and blends evenly with the sausage, giving a velvety, cohesive filling.
Seal the Edges Properly: When layering the top crescent dough, gently press and pinch the seams together to lock in the filling. This prevents cheese from bubbling out during baking.
Add Flavor Depth: For an elevated twist, mix in a pinch of garlic powder, fresh herbs, or shredded cheddar into the filling for extra richness and aroma.
Let It Rest Before Cutting: Allow the baked casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set slightly, ensuring clean, neat squares without losing that creamy interior.
Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls
Ingredients:
Crescent roll dough 2 cans (8 ounces each)
Pork sausage crumbles ~20 ounces
Cream cheese 8 ounces
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease to keep the filling rich but not oily.
Mix with Cream Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese directly into the warm sausage. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and evenly blended. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Crescent Base
Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pinching the seams together to create a smooth base layer.
Add the Filling
Spread the warm sausage and cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, reaching all the corners for even coverage.
Add the Top Layer
Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully lay it over the filling. Gently stretch and press the edges together to seal.
Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the top layer is puffed and golden brown.
Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Cut into squares and serve warm — creamy, savory, and irresistibly flaky.
Important Notes When Making Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls
Balance the Filling Temperature: Allow the sausage and cream cheese mixture to cool slightly before layering it over the crescent dough. If it’s too hot, it can soften or tear the dough, making it harder to handle.
Choose Quality Crescent Dough: Not all brands bake the same. Use a buttery, flaky dough for the best texture and flavor — it should puff beautifully while staying tender inside.
Season the Filling Wisely: The sausage already brings saltiness, so taste the mixture before adding more seasoning. Over-salting can overpower the delicate cream cheese flavor.
Use a Sharp Knife for Slicing: When cutting after baking, use a serrated or very sharp knife to maintain clean edges and prevent the creamy filling from oozing too much.
Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispness — microwaving may make the dough soft.
How to Enjoy Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls After Cooking
Let It Rest Before Serving:
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for about 5–10 minutes. This short cooling time helps the creamy sausage filling settle slightly, making each bite cohesive and easier to slice cleanly.
Serve It Warm:
The best way to enjoy this dish is while it’s still warm and flaky — when the cream cheese is silky, and the crescent crust is perfectly crisp. The contrast of textures is at its peak right after baking.
Pair with Fresh Sides:
To balance its rich and savory profile, serve alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or sliced fruit. The freshness helps cut through the richness of the sausage and cheese.
Enhance the Experience with Dips:
Elevate your serving by pairing it with spicy mustard, garlic aioli, or marinara sauce. These dips add a new flavor dimension that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Perfect for Any Occasion:
Whether as a brunch centerpiece, a party appetizer, or an easy comfort dinner, this dish fits every table. For gatherings, serve in small squares on a platter — they’ll disappear fast.
Enjoy Later — The Smart Way:
Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes. This restores the original crispness and creaminess without drying out the filling.
Nutrition Information
(Per 1 serving, assuming 8 servings total from a 9×13-inch pan)
Calories: 265 kcal | Total Fat: 21.6 g | Saturated Fat: 8.9 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8.2 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.1 g | Cholesterol: 48 mg | Sodium: 540–620 mg (depending on sausage brand) | Total Carbohydrates: 10.4 g | Dietary Fiber: 0.3 g | Sugars: 3.1 g | Protein: 9.8 g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can fully assemble the casserole a few hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven. This ensures even baking and the perfect flaky crust.
Can I freeze Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls?
Absolutely. After baking and cooling completely, cut into squares and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes — they’ll taste just as fresh as the day you made them.
What type of sausage works best for this recipe?
Regular pork sausage gives a rich, classic flavor, but you can use spicy sausage for a kick or turkey sausage for a leaner option. Avoid pre-cooked sausage crumbles — freshly browned sausage gives the best texture and flavor.
Can I add extra ingredients to the filling?
Yes! Mix in chopped green onions, diced jalapeños, or shredded cheddar for added depth and flavor. Just keep the ratio balanced so the filling stays creamy and doesn’t overflow during baking.
How do I keep the bottom crust from getting soggy?
Be sure to drain the cooked sausage well before mixing it with cream cheese, and don’t overload the filling. Using a lightly greased or parchment-lined pan also helps maintain a crisp, golden bottom crust.
How do I keep the crescent dough from tearing while assembling?
Work with chilled dough — it’s easier to handle and less sticky. If it starts to soften, place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes before continuing. Always press seams gently but firmly to create a smooth, unified layer.
What’s the best way to avoid greasy or soggy rolls?
After cooking the sausage, drain it thoroughly on paper towels before mixing with cream cheese. Too much grease seeps into the dough during baking, preventing that beautiful flaky rise.
Can I make this recipe with homemade dough instead of crescent rolls?
Yes, absolutely. You can use homemade biscuit or puff pastry dough for a more artisanal touch. Just adjust baking time slightly — puff pastry may bake faster, while biscuit dough might need a few extra minutes.
How do I know when the rolls are perfectly baked?
They’re ready when the top is deep golden brown and slightly puffed, and the edges pull away from the pan. Avoid overbaking — the filling should stay creamy, not dry.
What’s the best way to cut clean squares after baking?
Let the casserole rest for at least 5–10 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts. This keeps the flaky layers intact and the filling neatly contained in every square.