Name: Sausage Pinwheels Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ground breakfast sausage; 4 ounces cream cheese; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 can crescent roll dough seamless sheet, not precut; ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 3 Tablespoons green onion, minced

If you love savory snacks that pack a punch of flavor and a warm, flaky bite, then this Sausage Pinwheels Recipe is about to become your new best friend. These golden, cheesy spiral treats combine hearty breakfast sausage, creamy cheese, and buttery crescent dough into irresistible pinwheels that are perfect for breakfast, appetizers, or even a comforting snack anytime.

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Deliciously approachable: This recipe uses everyday ingredients but results in a show-stopping savory delight that anyone can master.
Perfect for gatherings: Sausage pinwheels are an easy finger food ideal for brunches, parties, or casual get-togethers.
Quick prep, satisfying results: With just a little hands-on time and some chilling, you have a golden snack crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor inside.
Customizable and versatile: You can swap cheeses or add herbs and spices to fit your personal taste, making this recipe truly your own.

The image shows eight small, round, golden brown rolls arranged evenly on a plain white plate. Each roll has two visible layers: a smooth outer dough layer and an inner filling that looks like ground meat mixed with some small green herb pieces and light-colored bits, giving a swirled effect inside. The rolls have a slightly crisp texture on the outside and a softer, more crumbly-looking inside. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with subtle grey veins in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Sausage Pinwheels, savory breakfast pinwheels, easy appetizer recipes, cheesy sausage snacks, flaky sausage snacks

Ingredients & Substitutions

This Sausage Pinwheels Recipe shines because of its simple yet complementary ingredients. Each item plays an essential role, from the savory sausage grounding the flavors, the cream cheese adding luscious creaminess, to the crescent dough that crisps up beautifully in the oven. Every bite offers a perfect balance of textures and taste that’s both comforting and crave-worthy.

Flat lay of raw ground breakfast sausage piled gently beside a block of creamy white cream cheese, bright green sliced scallions scattered artistically, golden shredded cheddar cheese sprinkled nearby, two peeled garlic cloves resting close to a smooth, unrolled sheet of pale crescent roll dough, all arranged neatly on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Sausage Pinwheels, savory breakfast pinwheels, easy appetizer recipes, cheesy sausage snacks, flaky sausage snacks

Vegetable oil: Perfect for sautéing the garlic and sausage without overpowering the natural flavors.
Garlic: Adds a fragrant depth that enhances the savory sausage.
Ground breakfast sausage: Choose a good-quality sausage with your preferred spice level for mouthwatering flavor.
Cream cheese: Creates a creamy texture that melds beautifully with the meat.
Kosher salt & black pepper: Seasonings to bring out the best in your sausage filling—adjust based on the sausage’s saltiness.
Crescent roll dough (seamless sheet): The flaky, buttery base that wraps the filling into neat, golden pinwheels.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
Green onion: A fresh, mild onion bite that brightens each pinwheel.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Sausage Pinwheels Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage Mixture

Start by heating vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until it shimmers – that’s when you know it’s ready. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns a light golden brown, releasing that amazing aroma. Then add the ground breakfast sausage, cooking it thoroughly until browned and no pink remains – about 8 minutes. Once done, drain the excess oil and mix the cooked sausage in a bowl with softened cream cheese. Season with kosher salt and black pepper, but remember to taste first, especially if your sausage is already seasoned. Pop the mixture into the fridge to cool to room temperature, which helps when spreading on the dough.

Step 2: Prepare and Assemble the Pinwheels

Unroll that seamless sheet of crescent roll dough onto a large rectangle of plastic wrap or a cutting board. Spread the cooled sausage and cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving about half an inch along one long edge free. Next, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and minced green onion evenly on top – these layers add melty, sharp, and fresh notes. Carefully roll the dough lengthwise into a tight log, using the plastic wrap to help guide it. Wet the bare edge with a little water, then seal the log by pinching the edges together. Wrap it tightly in the plastic wrap and chill in the freezer for 20 minutes – this little rest makes slicing a breeze!

Step 3: Slice and Bake to Golden Perfection

While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once firm, unwrap the dough and slice the log into 8 equal pinwheels. Lay them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced out so they can puff and get that perfect crisp edge. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes until the pastry is beautifully golden brown and the cheese inside is bubbling slightly. Let them cool a few minutes before serving – these pinwheels are best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Sausage Pinwheels Recipe

A toasted golden-brown mini pie sits on a white plate with a metal fork next to it. The pie is split open, showing a creamy, chunky filling of light brown sausage mixed with bits of white and green ingredients inside a soft, crumbly crust. Behind the plate, several whole pies with the same golden crust are arranged on another white plate. The scene is set on a smooth white marbled surface with a soft-focused white tiled wall in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Sausage Pinwheels, savory breakfast pinwheels, easy appetizer recipes, cheesy sausage snacks, flaky sausage snacks

Garnishes

To elevate your sausage pinwheels, sprinkle some extra chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and herbal brightness. A drizzle of spicy mustard or a dollop of tangy sour cream on the side can also add wonderful contrast to the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

These pinwheels pair wonderfully with light, fresh side dishes like a crisp green salad, roasted seasonal vegetables, or even some zesty coleslaw to brighten the plate. For breakfast or brunch, serve them alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit to round out your meal splendidly.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or casual gatherings, arrange your Sausage Pinwheels Recipe on a large wooden board sprinkled with microgreens or edible flowers for a rustic yet elegant look. You can also serve them stacked like a mini tower or alongside a trio of dipping sauces—think honey mustard, spicy aioli, or a smoky barbecue sauce—to delight guests with a flavorful variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store any leftover sausage pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They stay tasty and maintain their texture beautifully, making them a fantastic grab-and-go snack.

Freezing

To freeze, bake the pinwheels as directed and allow them to cool fully. Then layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy your favorite Sausage Pinwheels Recipe anytime with minimal effort.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated pinwheels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful flaky texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage in this Sausage Pinwheels Recipe?

Absolutely! While breakfast sausage works wonderfully here, you can experiment with Italian sausage, chorizo, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative depending on your preference — just make sure the sausage is fully cooked before assembling.
Is it necessary to chill the pinwheel log before slicing?

Yes, chilling the rolled dough helps the log firm up, making it much easier to slice cleanly without squishing or losing its shape. It also helps the layers stay intact while baking.
Can I prepare these sausage pinwheels ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! You can assemble the pinwheel log, slice it, and store the uncooked pinwheels covered in the refrigerator overnight. Then simply bake them fresh when needed — they’re sure to impress!
What if I can’t find crescent dough in a seamless sheet?

If you only find precut crescent dough triangles, you can carefully press the seams together to create a sheet before spreading the filling. Otherwise, puff pastry sheets are a fantastic substitute for a similar flaky texture.

Final Thoughts

I just love how this Sausage Pinwheels Recipe transforms simple ingredients into something delightfully scrumptious and hearty. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, snacks, or at your next get-together, these pinwheels bring smiles and satisfied appetites every time. Give it a try soon—you might just find a new staple in your recipe box!

Sausage Pinwheels Recipe