“Laws are like sausages, it is better not to see them being made.”
–Otto von Bismarck
While that may still be true when we’re talking about lawmaking and Congress (ugh), I think that’s being kind of mean to sausage. So many types of sausage out there, and all of them tasty for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or anytime really. This recipe is one of those examples of letting one ingredient, like sausage, be the star on the plate–and on your table.
Several years ago, my husband and I met up with some old friends of his for dinner. When we arrived at their house, they served a little nosh before we headed out to the restaurant. When we dug into the plateful of pinwheeled sausage goodness, we immediately demanded to know how to make these addictive little tasties. We were shocked when we were told that there were only two ingredients. That’s 2. Two. 1+1=Sausage Happiness. “No way!” we said. “Yes way!” we were assured. And with that my reliance on sausage rolls for a crowd was born.
You will always find at least one roll of these rolls in my freezer, just waiting for people to drop by for a visit. I promise that once you serve them to friends and family, you’ll look forward to how easily these sausage rolls are made. And you’ll carve out a place of honor in your freezer, too.
| Servings | Prep Time |
| 8 people | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time |
| 12-15 minutes |
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When I married my husband, he proclaimed that we were a "Jimmy Dean" family. I had no idea what that meant, but what it has come to mean is that Jimmy Dean is the only brand of sausage we have in the house. So that means that it's the only sausage we use in these rolls. Don't tell my husband, but you can use whatever brand of ground sausage you like. You'll fall in love with these rolls no matter the brand!
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- 1 1 lb. Jimmy Dean sausage, defrosted
- 2 rolls crescent rolls, defrosted
- Make sure that both the crescent rolls and sausage are defrosted so that they are easy to work with. Place 2 pieces of plastic wrap (approximately 18 inches each) on your countertop.
- Carefully roll out the dough from each crescent roll package onto each piece of plastic wrap. Don't use a rolling pin to make it any thinner as it will tear the dough. Using your fingers, pinch together the perforated edges of the dough to create one seamless sheet.
- Divide the sausage into 2 equal halves. Using your hands (it really is the best tool for this step), carefully spread the sausage onto the crescent dough, taking care not to tear the dough as you distribute it across the dough.
- Roll the dough from the long edge into a pinwheel log. Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze until needed.
- When you're ready to bake them, pull the roll out of the freezer and allow it to defrost for about 10 minutes so that it's easier to cut, but not defrosted completely.
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Slice the rolls into 1 - 1 1/2 inch slices.
- Place slices on baking sheet that has been coated with cooking spray.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until slices begin to brown.
- Serve immediately, and stand back as the stampede occurs to get 'em while they're hot!
We've all seen variations on this simple pinwheel recipe. Why? Because it's so darned versatile that you can pretty much put whatever other ingredients in here you like. Other variations I like include:
1. Add shredded cheese to the sausage before freezing. You'll have gooey goodness in addition to the sausage when you serve them!
2. Pizza sauce and pepperoni make for a great mini-pizza option.
3. Use spicy sausage and pickled peppers to give the rolls some kick.
4. Pesto, shredded mozzerella and sundried tomatoes result in a yummy Italian option.
A note here though: I don't generally use fresh produce in these (like spinach, fresh tomatoes, etc.). They don't freeze as well when wrapped in the dough, and wind up watering down the whole thing. Not appetizing. But you could easily make a simple version of these and then top the hot-out-of-the-oven rolls with other fresh ingredients. Instant appetizer!
What other ways have you used this simple rolled dough recipe?
These look amazing and delicious for such a simple recipe! They sounds like they’d be great either as an appetizer at dinner or even as a breakfast!
Yum! So easy to make too. These would be perfect for a holiday appetizer!
I never get tired of sausage. Love it in all its permutations. What a great little appetizer.
You are so smart to keep these ready in the freezer for guests. I bet your house is a favorite because you serve them. I love that there are only two ingredients and the results are so cute!
These remind me of England. I lived there for 7 years and sausage rolls are super popular – it’s virtually impossible to go to any kind of potluck or event and not find sausage rolls!
They are so good, and so addictive! Amazing what 2 little ingredients can become!
This would be a perfect addition to our “breakfast for dinner” Wednesdays. The girls will love them [Bob Evan’s here in the North though].
Oh my gosh, these look delicious! Totally making them next time I host a party!
Amanda, they will disappear faster than you can grab your drink and decide you want one, too! :o) There are never any leftovers, so having the second roll on hand is always needed!
Seriously, two!? Well, I want them. I know we’d love them…and I’m sure they always go over well wherever you take them. I’m thinking Easter brunch calls for a batch!
I just served them for a casual brunch this past weekend with some fresh fruit and some scones. Perfect, light meal–with sausage! :o)
Love the pinwheel shape and how simple these are to make. Keeping a roll of these in the freezer sounds like an excellent plan for last minute treats with or without guests.
These look so good, hard to believe there are only two ingredients! I love the pinwheel shape and your other filling suggestions too.