If you are looking for an easy dish to make, this Pinwheel sausage recipe is perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a tasty snack or appetizer ready in no time. The combination of flaky puff pastry and flavorful sausage makes these pinwheels a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want something different for dinner, this recipe is sure to please!
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Servings
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 8 pinwheels
Ingredients
- 1 pound of sausage (your choice of Italian, breakfast, or spicy sausage)
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme (optional)
Step-by-Step Pinwheel Sausage Recipe
1. Prepare the Puff Pastry: If you are using frozen puff pastry, make sure to let it thaw for about 10-15 minutes before working with it. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Pinwheels:
- Spread a thin layer of mustard over the puff pastry if you’re using it.
- Evenly spread the cooked sausage on top of the puff pastry.
- Roll the puff pastry tightly into a log, similar to a cinnamon roll.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into 1-inch thick slices.
4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each pinwheel with beaten egg to give it a nice golden color as it bakes. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden and crispy.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving. These are perfect on their own or paired with dipping sauces.
How to Cook Sausage for Beginners?
If you are new to cooking sausage, it’s quite simple once you know a few basics. Here’s a quick guide to help you cook sausage perfectly for this Pinwheel sausage recipe or any other dish:
- Choose your pan: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for evenly browning sausages.
- Preheat: Heat your skillet on medium heat before adding your sausage. This ensures even cooking.
- Cooking sausage links: Add sausages to the pan, turning them frequently to brown all sides. Cook for 12-15 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (for pork sausages) or 165°F (for chicken sausages).
- Crumbled sausage: For recipes like this Pinwheel sausage recipe, you’ll want to break up the sausage as it cooks. Use a spatula to crumble it into smaller pieces, and cook until it’s no longer pink.
What Do You Eat with Sausage Pinwheels?
Sausage pinwheels are versatile and can be paired with a variety of side dishes. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers or part of a meal, here are some delicious ideas:
- Salad: A crisp, fresh salad balances the richness of the pastry and sausage. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette works perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini make a colorful and nutritious side that complements the savory flavors of the pinwheels.
- Dips: Serve sausage pinwheels with a variety of dipping sauces. Mustard, marinara sauce, or even a cheese dip can enhance the flavor.
- Soup: Pair your pinwheels with a warm bowl of soup, such as tomato or butternut squash, for a comforting meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can turn these pinwheels from an appetizer into a hearty meal.
How Many Calories Are in Sausage Pinwheels?
The calorie count of sausage pinwheels will vary depending on the type of sausage and puff pastry used. On average, each sausage pinwheel contains around:
- Calories: 180-220 per pinwheel (assuming a standard-sized pinwheel made with regular sausage and puff pastry).
- Fat: 14-18 grams (this can vary with leaner sausage options like chicken or turkey sausage).
- Protein: 7-10 grams.
To reduce calories, you can opt for a lighter sausage like chicken or turkey, or use reduced-fat puff pastry. Alternatively, you could try making your own puff pastry with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Tips for Perfect Pinwheel Sausage Recipe
- Choose your sausage wisely: Depending on your taste preferences, you can use different types of sausage. Spicy Italian sausage adds a kick, while breakfast sausage gives a milder flavor.
- Customize with herbs and spices: Add some finely chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sausage mixture for extra flavor.
- Egg wash is key: Don’t skip brushing the tops of your pinwheels with an egg wash. It gives the pastry a beautiful golden-brown finish and enhances the crispiness.
Conclusion
This Pinwheel sausage recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, these savory treats are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve them at your next party, as a fun appetizer for dinner, or even enjoy them as a snack. With their crispy exterior and flavorful sausage filling, pinwheel sausages are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!
Read also: The Best Easy Chili Recipe for You