If you’re on the hunt for a surefire crowd-pleaser with just the right sparkle of spice, look no further than these EL Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites. With flaky puff pastry, creamy filling, and the punchy flavor of ROTEL and breakfast sausage, this party appetizer is the food equivalent of an instant celebration. Whether you’re hosting game day, a brunch, or need an easy-to-share snack, these bites disappear almost as soon as they hit the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind EL Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites is that every ingredient has a special purpose—spice, creaminess, crunch, or a pop of color. Don’t worry, the ingredient list is short and sweet but packs tons of flavor in every bite!
- Spicy breakfast sausage: This is the backbone of the filling, adding rich, savory depth and irresistible zing.
- ROTEL diced tomatoes and green chilies (drained): The signature kick and juiciness come from this iconic blend—don’t skip draining to keep your bites crisp.
- Cream cheese (softened): This melts into the sausage mixture for a velvety, tangy base that’s satisfyingly creamy.
- Garlic powder: Adds warmth and extra aromatics that boost the sausage flavors beautifully.
- Onion powder: Offers sweetness and depth without the fuss of chopping actual onions.
- Black pepper: Just the right hint of sharpness to wake everything up.
- Refrigerated puff pastry (thawed): Each buttery sheet pops into golden, flaky perfection in the oven.
- Egg (beaten, for egg wash): Brushed on top, it helps every bite bake up with a glossy, deeply golden finish.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): This fresh sprinkle adds color and a little herby brightness that makes the bites extra eye-catching.
How to Make EL Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by placing your spicy breakfast sausage in a medium skillet over medium heat. As it cooks, break it up into crumbles using a wooden spoon. You want every morsel to be well browned and fully cooked through—this step lays the foundation for bold, savory flavor. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat before moving on!
Step 2: Blend the Filling
Reduce the heat and stir in your drained ROTEL, soft cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir and mix until the cream cheese is fully melted and everything forms a dreamy, creamy filling. Take a moment to taste—this is your chance to add extra spice or a pinch more seasoning if you like it bold!
Step 3: Cut and Prep the Puff Pastry
Gently unfold your thawed puff pastry sheets onto a lightly floured surface. With a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice each sheet into 12 squares for a total of 24. Don’t stress over perfect squares—rustic shapes are part of their charm and every bite will still be flaky and gorgeous.
Step 4: Assemble the Bites
Spoon a rounded tablespoon of the sausage mixture right in the center of each puff pastry square. Now, bring all four corners up and over the filling, pinching them to seal. This makes a neat little parcel that keeps all that spicy, creamy filling safely tucked inside.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Transfer your assembled EL Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites seam-side down onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg to help them develop that irresistible bakery-style sheen. Bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, or until every bite is puffed and shimmering golden brown. Let them cool slightly before you dig in!
How to Serve EL Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites
Garnishes
When you’re ready to serve, a sprinkle of chopped parsley instantly brightens the tray, while a dash of extra black pepper on top will make the flavors really sing. If you love heat, scatter some finely diced fresh chilies or a pinch of red pepper flakes over the bites just before serving for an eye-catching finish.
Side Dishes
EL Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites are perfectly rich on their own, but they also thrive with fellow party fare. Offer them alongside a fresh fruit salad for contrast, simple mixed greens, or a crisp, tangy slaw. If you’re going full game-day mode, think crunchy veggies and a cool ranch dip on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful buffet, arrange your bites on a big board with little flags for easy grabbing. Nestle them in muffin liners for a cute, portioned approach, or thread each one on a skewer for a “bite pop” that kids and grownups will both love. Set up a dipping station with sriracha mayo or honey mustard to let guests customize their flavors!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover EL Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites keep exceptionally well! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them cool to room temperature first so condensation doesn’t make the pastry soggy.
Freezing
If you’re planning ahead or have extra, these bites are freezer-friendly. Simply set cooled bites in a single layer on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To re-crisp that irresistible puff pastry, warm the bites in a 350°F oven or air fryer for about 5 minutes until heated through and flaky again. The microwave works in a pinch, but for best results, go for dry heat to keep the edges crisp.
FAQs
Can I use mild sausage instead of spicy?
Absolutely! If you prefer less heat, swap in mild breakfast sausage. You can always add a pinch of extra spices like smoked paprika or crushed red pepper to get the flavor just right for your crowd.
Is there a substitute for ROTEL tomatoes and green chilies?
If ROTEL isn’t available, use canned diced tomatoes and add a small can of green chilies. You’ll get the same signature tang and pop of heat that make these EL Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites so addictive.
Can I assemble the bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the sausage filling up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. For best results, assemble the bites just before baking so the pastry stays crisp and puffs up properly in the oven.
What’s the best way to seal the pastry so the filling doesn’t leak?
When folding the pastry, press the corners tightly together and pinch along the seams. If you’re worried about leaks, you can also use a fork to crimp the edges or brush the pastry lightly with water before sealing.
Can I make these gluten-free?
While traditional puff pastry typically contains wheat, you can use a good-quality gluten-free puff pastry if you can find it. Make sure your sausage and seasonings are also gluten-free, and the rest of the recipe works perfectly!
Final Thoughts
Bring some serious excitement to your next gathering with EL Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites—these are the kinds of treats people beg for the recipe after just one taste! They’re simple, festive, and outrageously satisfying. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become an instant classic in your own kitchen lineup.
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EL Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Irresistibly Easy ROTEL Spiced Sausage and Cream Cheese Bites are the perfect appetizer for any occasion. A flavorful combination of spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty tomatoes and chilies, all wrapped in buttery puff pastry.
Ingredients
Sausage Filling:
- 1 pound ground spicy breakfast sausage
- 1 can (10 ounces) ROTEL diced tomatoes and green chilies (drained)
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese (softened)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Puff Pastry:
- 1 package (2 sheets) refrigerated puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Sausage Filling: Cook the sausage in a skillet until browned. Drain excess fat and mix in ROTEL, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until creamy.
- Assemble Bites: Roll out puff pastry, cut into squares, place sausage mixture in the center of each, fold corners, and seal.
- Bake: Brush with egg wash, bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy warm.
Notes
- You can prepare the sausage filling ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to assemble.
- For extra spice, use hot sausage or add a pinch of cayenne.
- These bites reheat well in the oven or air fryer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
