Looking for a delicious and simple appetizer that everyone will love? Try these Italian sausage pinwheels! With flaky pastry and savory Italian sausage, they are perfect for any occasion, from parties to family gatherings. This easy-to-follow recipe comes together quickly and will surely be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
To make these tasty Italian sausage pinwheels, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (store-bought works perfectly)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Flour, for dusting the surface
Prep Time and Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions: How to Make Italian Sausage Pinwheels
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Italian Sausage
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing, crumble it into the pan, and cook until browned. Make sure to break up the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
While the sausage cools, lightly dust your work surface with flour. Roll out the puff pastry sheet into a large rectangle, about 12×10 inches. You want the pastry thin enough to roll easily but not too thin that it tears.
Step 4: Assemble the Pinwheels
Evenly spread the cooled Italian sausage over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning on top of the sausage.
Step 5: Roll and Slice the Pastry
Carefully roll the puff pastry sheet into a tight log, starting from the longer side. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1/2-inch pinwheels. You should get around 12-15 pinwheels depending on the thickness of your slices.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
Place the pinwheels onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Brush each pinwheel with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish as they bake.
Step 7: Bake the Pinwheels
Bake the Italian sausage pinwheels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and the pastry is puffed and flaky. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Making the Best Italian Sausage Pinwheels
- Use Pre-cooked Sausage: If you are in a rush, you can use pre-cooked Italian sausage to cut down on the prep time.
- Add Veggies: For extra flavor and color, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or onions to the sausage mixture before rolling.
- Freeze for Later: These pinwheels freeze well! Just assemble and freeze them unbaked. When you’re ready to serve, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
- Customize the Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique twist.
How to Serve Italian Sausage Pinwheels
These Italian sausage pinwheels are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- As an appetizer: Arrange them on a platter with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- With a salad: Serve alongside a fresh, crisp salad to make it a light lunch or dinner option.
- For parties: Make these pinwheels ahead of time and pop them in the oven just before guests arrive for a warm and inviting party snack.
What to Pair with Italian Sausage Pinwheels?
To create a complete meal or a more substantial spread, here are a few ideas for what you can serve with your Italian sausage pinwheels:
- Marinara Dipping Sauce: A tangy tomato-based sauce is a classic pairing for Italian-inspired appetizers.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the rich sausage flavors and adds to the Italian theme.
- Italian Salad: A simple green salad with an Italian vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the pinwheels.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, peppers, or eggplant can be served alongside for a healthy and flavorful side.
Storing and Reheating Italian Sausage Pinwheels
- Storing: If you have leftovers, store the Italian sausage pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, pop them back into a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes until they are warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving them as it can make the pastry soggy.
How Many Calories are in Italian Sausage Pinwheels?
While the calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, a typical serving of Italian sausage pinwheels (about 2 pinwheels) contains approximately 200-250 calories. This estimate includes the puff pastry, sausage, and cheese. For a lighter option, you can reduce the amount of cheese or opt for turkey sausage instead of pork.
Conclusion
These easy-to-make Italian sausage pinwheels are the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. With a crispy, flaky exterior and a flavorful sausage filling, they’re sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a snack, these pinwheels are always a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try, and let the deliciousness speak for itself!
