Looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with flavor? These Rotel Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels are a game-changer! Made with flaky crescent roll dough, spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes, they are the ultimate party snack, game-day treat, or quick bite for any occasion.

With only a handful of ingredients, you can whip these up in no time. Plus, they’re baked to golden perfection, giving you a crispy outside and a creamy, savory inside.

Ingredients

For the Pinwheels:

• 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough (or crescent dough sheet)
• ½ pound breakfast sausage (hot or mild)
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel tomatoes, drained
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Red pepper flakes for extra spice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease.
2. Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
3. Stir in the drained Rotel tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
4. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 2: Assemble the Pinwheels

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the crescent dough sheet on a lightly floured surface. If using crescent rolls, pinch the seams together to form a single sheet.
3. Evenly spread the sausage mixture over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border on the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top (if using).
5. Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
6. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into ½-inch thick slices.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

1. Place pinwheels cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Let cool for a couple of minutes before serving.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
• Serve warm with ranch dressing, sour cream, or spicy aioli for dipping!

Cooking Notes & Tips

• Drain Rotel well! Too much moisture can make the pinwheels soggy.
• Use a serrated knife to cut the pinwheels neatly without squishing the roll.
• Make ahead tip: Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Spice it up! Use spicy sausage or add chopped jalapeños for extra heat.

Variations

1. Bacon & Cheese Pinwheels

• Swap the sausage for crispy bacon and use pepper jack cheese for a delicious twist!

2. Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

• Use shredded rotisserie chicken mixed with buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning instead of sausage.

3. Vegetarian Pinwheels

• Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a veggie-packed version.

4. Keto & Low-Carb Version

• Instead of crescent roll dough, use fathead dough (a mix of mozzarella cheese, almond flour, and egg).
• Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese and avoid any added sugars.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough?

Yes! Puff pastry will give you an extra flaky texture. Just roll it out, add the filling, roll it up, and bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.

3. Can I freeze these pinwheels?

Absolutely! Assemble the pinwheels, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a ziplock bag. When ready to bake, place them directly in the oven and bake a few extra minutes.

4. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

5. What can I serve with these pinwheels?

They pair perfectly with ranch dressing, honey mustard, marinara sauce, or even a spicy sriracha aioli!

These Rotel Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels are quick, easy, and packed with flavor! Whether you’re serving them for a party, tailgate, or just as a snack, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.