Sausage and Cheese Crescent Rings

This ring of joy is the crown jewel of any holiday feast, disappearing before the first snow melts! Sausage and cheese crescent rings are a delightful fusion of savory flavors wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. This dish draws inspiration from classic American comfort food, combining the rich taste of sausage with the creamy goodness of cheese, all encased in crescent roll dough. Perfect for brunch, a cozy family dinner, or as an appetizer for a gathering, these crescent rings are loved by both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

They pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. If served as an appetizer, consider offering a tangy mustard or a creamy dipping sauce on the side. For a brunch setting, a fruit salad or light soup would beautifully complement the richness of the rings.

Ingredients (Servings: 8)

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
5. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the triangles in a circle with the pointed ends facing outward, overlapping slightly.
6. Spoon the sausage and cheese mixture onto the wide ends of the dough triangles.
7. Fold the pointed ends of the triangles over the filling and tuck them under the wide ends to form a ring.
8. Brush the dough with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and cooked through.

Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Variations & Tips

• For a spicier version, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sausage mixture.
• Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, to change the flavor profile.
• For a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
• Try using whole grain crescent roll dough for a healthier twist.