Name: Sausage Cream Cheese Puffs: The Ultimate Guide to Delicious Appetizers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24-30 puffs
Ingredients: 1 pound bulk pork sausage (mild Italian preferred); 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional); 1/4 cup milk; 1 large egg, beaten; Everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Sausage Cream Cheese Puffs: Prepare to meet your new favorite appetizer! Imagine biting into a warm, flaky puff pastry, the buttery layers giving way to a savory and creamy filling bursting with the delicious combination of sausage and cream cheese. These little bites of heaven are so addictive, they're guaranteed to disappear in minutes at any gathering.

While the exact origins of sausage cream cheese puffs are a bit hazy, the concept of combining savory fillings with pastry has been around for centuries. Think of the Cornish pasty or the countless variations of filled pastries found across different cultures. What makes these particular puffs so special is their simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavor profile. The combination of rich cream cheese and savory sausage is a classic pairing that just works, creating a balance of textures and tastes that's simply irresistible.

People absolutely adore sausage cream cheese puffs for several reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Second, they are incredibly versatile. You can customize the sausage with different spices and flavors to suit your taste. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, they taste amazing! The creamy, savory filling combined with the flaky pastry is a textural and flavor sensation that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you're hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply craving a delicious snack, these puffs are always a hit. So, let's get baking and create some magic in the kitchen!

Ingredients:

1 pound bulk pork sausage (I prefer a mild Italian sausage, but spicy works great too!)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature (this is crucial for easy mixing!)
1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting (you might need a little more depending on the humidity)
1 teaspoon baking powder (this gives them a nice, light puff)
1/2 teaspoon salt (enhances the flavors)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but adds a lovely savory note)
1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional, complements the garlic powder)
1/4 cup milk (helps bind the dough)
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash, gives them a beautiful golden-brown color)
Everything bagel seasoning (optional, for topping – adds great texture and flavor)

Preparing the Sausage Mixture

Okay, let's get started! The first thing we need to do is cook the sausage. This is a super important step because we want to make sure it's fully cooked and crumbled before we add it to the cream cheese mixture.

Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the pork sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is fully browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to break up any large clumps with a spoon or spatula as it cooks.
Drain the Excess Grease: Once the sausage is cooked, carefully drain off any excess grease. I usually tilt the skillet and use a spoon to hold back the sausage while pouring the grease into a heat-safe container. You don't want these puffs to be greasy!
Cool the Sausage: Let the cooked sausage cool slightly before adding it to the cream cheese. This prevents the cream cheese from melting too much and keeps the mixture from becoming too runny. I usually let it sit for about 5-10 minutes.

Making the Dough

Now for the fun part – making the dough! This dough is super simple and comes together really quickly. Just make sure your cream cheese is nice and soft for the best results.

Combine Cream Cheese and Sausage: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the slightly cooled cooked sausage. Use a spoon or spatula to mix them together until they are well combined. You want the sausage to be evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese.
Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder (if using), and onion powder (if using). This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which will help the puffs rise properly.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the cream cheese and sausage mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can make the puffs tough. The dough will be a bit sticky, and that's okay!
Add Milk: Add the milk to the dough and mix until it forms a cohesive ball. The dough should be soft and pliable, but not too sticky. If the dough seems too dry, you can add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.

Shaping and Baking the Puffs

Almost there! Now we just need to shape the puffs and get them into the oven. This is where you can get creative with the size and shape of your puffs.

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the puffs from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Shape the Puffs: Lightly flour your hands and a clean work surface. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface. Gently roll the dough into a log about 1 inch in diameter. Use a sharp knife or dough scraper to cut the log into 1-inch pieces. You should get about 24-30 puffs from this recipe. Alternatively, you can use a small cookie scoop to portion out the dough.
Place Puffs on Baking Sheet: Place the puffs onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. This will allow them to bake evenly.
Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the beaten egg with a tablespoon of water. This will create a nice, shiny egg wash.
Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the puffs with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color as they bake.
Sprinkle with Everything Bagel Seasoning (Optional): If you're using everything bagel seasoning, sprinkle it generously over the tops of the puffs. This adds a delicious savory flavor and a nice textural element.
Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and cooked through. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.
Cool Slightly: Let the puffs cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Storing

These sausage cream cheese puffs are best served warm, but they are also delicious at room temperature. They make a great appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Here are a few tips for serving and storing them:

Serving Suggestions: Serve these puffs with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo. They also pair well with a simple green salad.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat the puffs, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, or microwave them for a short time. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can become dry.
Freezing: These puffs can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze them, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat frozen puffs, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few extra tips and variations to help you customize this recipe to your liking:

Spice it Up: For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dough.
Add Cheese: You can add shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or pepper jack cheese to the dough for extra flavor. About 1/2 cup of shredded cheese should be perfect.
Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as dried oregano, basil, or thyme, to add a unique flavor to the puffs.
Make Mini Puffs: For smaller, bite-sized puffs, simply cut the dough into smaller pieces. These are perfect for parties and gatherings.
Air Fryer Option: You can also cook these in an air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the puffs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious sausage cream cheese puffs! They are a crowd-pleaser and are sure to be a hit at your next party or gathering. Let me know in the comments if you try this recipe and how it turns out!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Sausage Cream Cheese Puffs are truly a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and utterly delicious appetizer or snack. The combination of savory sausage, tangy cream cheese, and flaky puff pastry is simply irresistible. I promise, once you pop one of these little guys in your mouth, you won't be able to stop! But why are these puffs so special? It's the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sausage provides a hearty, meaty base, while the cream cheese adds a creamy richness that melts in your mouth. And let's not forget the puff pastry – it's light, airy, and provides the perfect crispy contrast to the soft filling. Plus, they are incredibly versatile. You can serve them at brunch, as a party appetizer, or even as a quick and satisfying weeknight snack. They are always a crowd-pleaser, no matter the occasion. Serving Suggestions and Variations: The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving and customizing these Sausage Cream Cheese Puffs. For a brunch spread, arrange them on a platter alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, and a mimosa bar. For a party, serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo. If you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different variations. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture or use a spicy Italian sausage. You could also incorporate some chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach, for added flavor and nutrients. Another fun variation is to add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, on top of the puffs before baking. For a sweeter twist, consider adding a drizzle of maple syrup after they come out of the oven. Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique version of these delicious puffs. I've even tried adding a little bit of chopped jalapeno for a spicy kick, and it was a huge hit! Time to Get Baking! I truly believe that these Sausage Cream Cheese Puffs will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. They are so easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are always a guaranteed hit. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible treats. I'm confident that you'll love them as much as I do. And once you've tried them, I'd love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What dipping sauces did you serve them with? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! I can't wait to see what culinary creations you come up with. Happy baking! I am sure you will enjoy this recipe as much as I do. I am always looking for new ways to make this recipe even better, so please share your ideas!