Appetizers

Cranberry Cheddar Chicken Sausage Rolls

Name: Cranberry Cheddar Chicken Sausage Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken sausage; 1 cup fresh cranberries; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; 1 package puff pastry sheets; 1 beaten egg (for egg wash)

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Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 210
Protein: 8 grams
Carbohydrates: 18 grams
Fat: 12 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 1 gram
Sodium: 350 mg

Why Make This Cranberry Cheddar Chicken Sausage Rolls

Cranberry Cheddar Chicken Sausage Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional sausage rolls. They combine the savory goodness of chicken sausage with the tartness of cranberries and the richness of cheddar cheese. These rolls are perfect for holiday gatherings, game days, or simply as a satisfying snack. The beautiful golden puff pastry encases the flavorful filling, making these rolls irresistible. Plus, they are quick to prepare and can serve as an impressive appetizer or a hearty snack for any occasion.

How to Make Cranberry Cheddar Chicken Sausage Rolls

Step 1: Preparation

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial to ensure that your rolls bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color.

Step 2: Mixing

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken sausage, fresh cranberries, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mix everything thoroughly until well blended. The combination of flavors will make your rolls both savory and slightly sweet.

Step 3: Rolling Out the Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets until they are about 1/8 inch thick. Cut them into rectangles, roughly 3×5 inches in size. This size is perfect for holding a generous amount of filling without being too large to handle.

Step 4: Filling and Sealing

Place a spoonful of the chicken sausage mixture onto one end of each rectangle. Be careful not to overfill, or the mixture may spill out during baking. Fold the pastry over the filling to encase it fully and press the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for an attractive finish.

Step 5: Brushing with Egg Wash

Brush the tops of each rolled pastry with the beaten egg. This step ensures your rolls will have a beautiful golden hue once baked. Don’t skip it; it makes a big difference!

Step 6: Baking

Transfer the rolls to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you won’t be able to resist checking on them!

Step 7: Serving

Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven.

How to Serve Cranberry Cheddar Chicken Sausage Rolls

These delicious rolls can be served as an appetizer or a party snack. Pair them with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor. They also make a great addition to breakfast or brunch when served alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad.

How to Store Cranberry Cheddar Chicken Sausage Rolls

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store the cooled rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should remain fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cranberry Cheddar Chicken Sausage Rolls

For extra flavor, consider adding some herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the sausage mixture.
If you want a spicier kick, use spicy chicken sausage instead of regular sausage.
Ensure that the puff pastry is cold when handling; this will help achieve that flakiness once baked.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheese types, such as gouda or pepper jack!

Delicious Variations

Ham and Cheese Rolls: Substitute chicken sausage with diced ham and add Swiss cheese.
Vegetarian Option: Use a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and feta cheese as the filling.
Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to your mixture for a spicy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Yes! Ensure you thaw it according to package instructions before rolling it out.
Can I prepare these rolls in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake them directly from the fridge.
What type of chicken sausage should I use?
Choose your favorite flavor of chicken sausage; smoked, herb, or spicy all work wonderfully.
Can I freeze these sausage rolls?
Yes! Freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from the freezer for about 25-30 minutes, adding time as necessary.
What can I serve with the rolls?
These rolls pair well with dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a zesty aioli.

Conclusion

Cranberry Cheddar Chicken Sausage Rolls are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, wrapped in flaky puff pastry. They’re perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a holiday party, a cozy family dinner, or just a casual snack while watching your favorite show. With easy-to-follow steps and tasty results, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy making these delicious treats!