Kilted Sausage Bites Recipe

If you’re craving the ultimate party appetizer, Kilted Sausage Bites are your ticket to snack-time glory! These golden, cheesy, creamy pinwheels are wrapped in flaky crescent dough, stuffed with smoky sausage, and kissed with a sweet mustardy glaze—every bite is pure comfort with a fun, crowd-pleaser twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a long shopping list for Kilted Sausage Bites, but every ingredient plays a key role in creating those crave-worthy layers of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need (and why you’ll love it!):

• Crescent roll dough (2, 8 oz sheets): The secret to a flaky, buttery crust that bakes up beautifully around the filling.
• Kielbasa or smoked sausages (2, 12 oz): Smoky, savory, and hearty—these deliver protein and that irresistible “bite.”
• Shredded cheese (1 cup): Melts into a gooey, cheesy hug around the sausage—sharp cheddar or a blend works perfectly!
• Cream cheese (4 oz): Adds creamy, tangy richness to half of the bites, balancing the savoriness.
• Poppy seeds (2 tsp): Sprinkled on top for a little crunch and that classic bakery finish.
• Butter (⅓ cup, melted): The backbone of the glaze that gives these bites their shiny, tempting tops.
• Dijon mustard (1 Tbsp): Infuses a punchy, tangy note into the glaze—absolutely essential for that signature flavor.
• Brown sugar (1 Tbsp): Just the right amount of sweetness for caramelized edges in the glaze.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp): Savory magic to bring all the flavors together in the glaze.

Variations

Part of the fun of making Kilted Sausage Bites is how easy it is to make them your own! Don’t be shy about customizing ingredients—there’s endless room for creativity based on your pantry or preferences.

• Switch Up Your Sausage: Try andouille, chicken sausage, veggie sausage, or even little cocktail weenies for a twist.
• Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or gouda—different cheeses bring new melty excitement.
• Spice It Up: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or smear the dough with a thin layer of spicy sriracha before rolling.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use your favorite gluten-free crescent dough or puff pastry for an allergy-friendly version.

How to Make Kilted Sausage Bites

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F and lightly greasing a large baking sheet. This ensures your Kilted Sausage Bites get perfectly golden and easily lift off the tray for serving.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough Sheets

Unroll one tube of crescent dough onto a clean surface. Gently pinch together the seams so you have a smooth, single sheet—think of it as your blank, buttery canvas!

Step 3: Assemble the Cheese & Sausage Rolls

For the first sheet, sprinkle generously with shredded cheese. Place one sausage lengthwise at the long edge (if your sausage is curved, cut it in half to align). Roll up tightly, then pinch the seam to seal in all that cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Switch It Up with Cream Cheese

Take your second dough sheet and smooth a layer of cream cheese over half the rectangle. Place the second sausage on the long edge and roll it up just like before, sealing the edge well. You’re about to have two delicious flavor combos!

Step 5: Slice Into Bites

With a sharp knife, cut each sausage roll into thick rounds, about ¾ inch each. Place these spirals, cut side up, onto your prepared baking sheet—each little piece should look like a savory pinwheel.

Step 6: Brush with Glaze and Add Toppings

Whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Brush this flavorful glaze over each bite, then sprinkle the tops with poppy seeds for that gorgeous, bakery-style finish.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Pop your tray in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crisp. The cheese should be molten, and the scent will have everyone lingering by the kitchen!

Step 8: Serve Warm

Kilted Sausage Bites are best enjoyed fresh and hot from the oven. Serve with ketchup, grainy mustard, or your favorite dipping sauces for an extra pop of flavor.

How to Serve Kilted Sausage Bites

Garnishes

Sprinkle your Kilted Sausage Bites with a little extra poppy seed right before serving for an eye-catching finish, or add a shower of finely chopped parsley or chives for a pop of fresh color and flavor.

Side Dishes

These bites are practically made for a party platter! Serve them with tangy pickles, roasted veggie skewers, a crisp green salad, or classic chips and dips—anything with a little freshness or crunch will perfectly balance your tray.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful touch, skewer each bite with a party pick and arrange them in concentric circles on a serving tray, or stack them high on a cake stand for extra wow factor. Add tiny ramekins of dipping sauces at the center for an interactive appetizer experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Kilted Sausage Bites in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days—they reheat beautifully and make an awesome snack or quick lunch!

Freezing

You can freeze baked Kilted Sausage Bites by placing them in a single layer on a tray until solid, then transferring to a zip-top bag. Keep them frozen for up to 2 months—they’re a lifesaver for last-minute gatherings.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the bites in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until hot and crisp, or warm gently in the microwave (though the dough won’t be as flaky). A quick broil can restore that perfect golden top!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a new go-to appetizer, these Kilted Sausage Bites deliver every time. Whether you serve them at a lively brunch, game day spread, or casual get-together, you’ll find yourself making these again and again. I hope you give them a try and share the bites—and the smiles—with everyone around your table!

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