Kilted Sausage Bites
Kilted Sausage Bites are a delicious twist on classic pigs in a blanket, featuring smoky kielbasa wrapped in buttery crescent dough with a flavorful cheese filling.
A rich Dijon-butter glaze and poppy seeds add an irresistible touch of flavor and crunch.
Perfect for parties, game nights, or a fun appetizer, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and always a crowd favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
People will love this recipe because it combines the smoky, savory flavor of kielbasa with the creamy richness of cheese and the buttery flakiness of crescent dough.
The tangy Dijon-butter glaze adds a flavorful twist, while the poppy seeds provide a subtle crunch.
These bite-sized treats are easy to make, perfect for gatherings, and guaranteed to be a hit at any party or snack table!
Key Ingredients:
Kielbasa or Smoked Sausage – Provides a rich, smoky, and savory bite.
Crescent Roll Dough – Creates a buttery, flaky crust that wraps around the sausage.
Shredded Cheese & Cream Cheese – Adds a creamy, melty texture with a delicious cheesy flavor.
Dijon Mustard & Brown Sugar – Enhances the glaze with a balance of tangy and sweet notes.
Poppy Seeds – Sprinkled on top for a slight crunch and added visual appeal.
Kilted Sausage Bites
Ingredients
2 cans (8 oz each) crescent roll dough sheets
2 smoked sausages or kielbasa (12 oz each)
1 cup shredded cheese
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 teaspoons poppy seeds
Glaze:
⅓ cup butter, melted
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Roll out one sheet of crescent dough and press any seams together to form a smooth rectangle.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the first sheet of dough.
Place one sausage along the longer edge and, if necessary, cut it in half for easier handling.
Roll the dough tightly around the sausage and pinch the edges to seal.
Step 4: Cream Cheese Version
On the second sheet of dough, spread cream cheese evenly over half of the surface.
Position the second sausage at the long edge and roll it up securely, sealing the seam.
Step 5: Slice and Arrange
Cut each rolled sausage into ¾-inch slices using a sharp knife.
Place the pieces onto the baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
Brush the glaze generously over each piece.
Sprinkle poppy seeds on top.
Step 7: Bake and Serve
Bake for 15–18 minutes until the dough is golden and crispy.
Let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes:
Dough Handling: Make sure to pinch the seams of the crescent dough well to prevent it from separating during baking.
Even Slicing: Use a sharp knife or a serrated knife for cleaner cuts when slicing the rolled dough.
Customizable Fillings: You can experiment with different cheeses or even add a touch of spice by mixing chopped jalapeños into the cream cheese.
Crispier Bites: For extra crispiness, bake the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a wire rack.
Glaze Variations: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, increase the brown sugar slightly or add a drizzle of honey.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: ~380 kcal | Protein: ~12g | Carbohydrates: ~26g | Fat: ~26g | Saturated Fat: ~12g | Cholesterol: ~55mg | Sodium: ~750mg | Fiber: ~1g | Sugar: ~5g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I prepare these sausage bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the rolls, slice them, and store them in the refrigerator (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking.
Just add the glaze before placing them in the oven.
Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?
Absolutely! Puff pastry will give the bites a flakier texture.
Just roll it out slightly before wrapping the sausage and adjust the baking time as needed.
How do I keep the rolls from unrolling while baking?
Make sure to pinch the seams of the dough tightly when rolling.
You can also place them seam-side down on the baking sheet to help them stay intact.
What dipping sauces pair well with these bites?
These bites taste great with Dijon mustard, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy aioli.
Can I freeze these sausage bites?
Yes! You can freeze them before or after baking.
If freezing before baking, assemble and slice them, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag.
Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
If freezing after baking, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
How do I prevent the dough from sticking to the surface while rolling?
Lightly flour your work surface before rolling out the crescent dough.
This will help prevent sticking and make it easier to roll around the sausage.
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes! While shredded cheese and cream cheese are used in this recipe, you can experiment with sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or even smoked gouda for a different flavor.
How do I make sure the sausage is fully cooked?
Since kielbasa and smoked sausages are usually pre-cooked, they only need to be heated through.
If using raw sausage, pre-cook it before rolling it in the dough to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I use a different glaze for the topping?
Definitely! If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can add honey or maple syrup.
For a more savory option, try adding a touch of garlic powder or hot sauce to the butter mixture.
How do I get the rolls to bake evenly?
Make sure to slice them into even-sized rounds and space them slightly apart on the baking sheet.
If needed, rotate the tray halfway through baking to ensure even browning.