Sausage Rolls Appetizer Recipe

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Golden, flaky, and irresistibly savory—these Sausage Rolls are the kind of appetizer that disappear the second they hit the table. I still remember the first time I made them for a cozy movie night with friends. The aroma of puff pastry crisping up in the oven, mingled with the herb-spiced sausage filling, was enough to make everyone gather around the kitchen even before they were plated. It’s one of those simple pleasures that feels like a treat every time.

Making sausage rolls quickly became one of my favorite go-to recipes for gatherings. They’re so easy to prepare, and yet they deliver such an impressive result. Whether you’re planning for game day, a holiday spread, or just need a snack everyone will love, this recipe hits the mark. I always bake a double batch because these rolls vanish faster than anything else on the table.

The best part? You can customize them endlessly. Want a little heat? Toss in some chili flakes. Prefer them herby? Add fresh thyme or rosemary. They’re beautifully adaptable to whatever flavors you’re craving. Plus, they freeze like a dream, making them perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Rolls Appetizer Recipe

These sausage rolls offer that perfect combo of buttery, flaky pastry and juicy, flavorful sausage filling. They’re quick enough for a last-minute snack but elegant enough for a party platter. Whether served warm or at room temperature, they maintain their delicious texture and flavor. If you love crowd-pleasers like these, you might also enjoy my authentic 7-layer Mexican dip or these irresistible pecan pie bites for something sweet after.

How to Make the Sausage Rolls Appetizer Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by combining ground sausage with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, and your favorite seasonings. I like using a mix of dried thyme, black pepper, and a dash of smoked paprika for a little depth. Mix until everything is evenly combined.

Step 2: Roll Out the Pastry
Unroll the store-bought puff pastry sheets and gently roll them with a floured rolling pin to smooth out the folds. Slice each sheet in half lengthwise, giving you long rectangles ready to wrap around the filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Spoon the sausage mixture in a line down the center of each pastry rectangle. Fold one side over and seal it with a bit of egg wash, pressing the edge with a fork for extra hold and decoration. Flip the roll seam-side down and cut into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch
Place the sausage rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each piece with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or both for a bakery-style finish.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown and the sausage is cooked through.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can use spicy Italian sausage for a bolder flavor or go mild if you’re serving kids. Chicken or turkey sausage also works well for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try using plant-based sausage alternatives and a bit of finely diced mushrooms for extra umami.

Instead of breadcrumbs, you could mix in a bit of grated Parmesan or even cooked rice for a different texture. The puff pastry can be swapped for crescent roll dough in a pinch, though the final texture will be a bit softer. If you want to prep ahead, assemble the rolls and freeze them unbaked, then bake straight from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Sausage rolls are incredibly versatile, making them ideal for nearly any occasion. I love serving them warm right out of the oven with a selection of dipping sauces. Honey mustard, spicy ketchup, or even a creamy ranch dressing are all delicious choices. If you’re building a platter, pair them with fresh veggie sticks, pickles, or a bright salad for balance.

For party spreads, these rolls fit beautifully next to other small bites like sliders, deviled eggs, or dips. They also make an amazing brunch addition when served alongside scrambled eggs and fruit. Their rich, savory flavor holds its own against sparkling cider, crisp white wine, or even a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover sausage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps restore the flakiness of the pastry. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the pastry soggy.

If you’ve made a batch ahead of time, freeze the unbaked rolls in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag once frozen. They can be baked straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Baked rolls can also be frozen and reheated later, though the texture is best when they’re freshly baked.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?

Make sure the filling isn’t too wet and always bake on parchment paper. You can also preheat the baking sheet to give the bottom an extra crisp start.

Can I make sausage rolls in advance?

Yes! You can assemble them up to a day ahead and keep them chilled, or freeze them before baking for longer storage.

What type of sausage works best?

Any ground sausage will work. I like using a mix of pork and herbs, but Italian, chicken, or turkey sausage are great options too.

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Absolutely, if you have the time. It gives a richer flavor and more dramatic flake, but store-bought works just fine.

Are these sausage rolls kid-friendly?

Yes, especially if you stick with mild sausage. You can skip the seeds on top if your kids prefer simpler textures.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved these sausage rolls, there’s a good chance you’ll enjoy some of my other easy, flavor-packed appetizer recipes. One of my top recommendations is the authentic 7-layer Mexican dip, a colorful and creamy dish that’s always a hit at parties. It pairs well with tortilla chips and adds a burst of flavor to any gathering.

For something sweet to balance out the savory, give my irresistible pecan pie bites a try. They have the same crowd-pleasing ease and are perfect for dessert tables or after-dinner treats. Another savory snack you might enjoy is the buffalo chicken calzone —it has that same flaky dough-meets-satisfying-filling magic as the sausage rolls.

These recipes make entertaining feel effortless, especially when you want a mix of savory and sweet bites that are simple to prepare but big on taste.

Don’t Forget to Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If you try this sausage rolls appetizer recipe and love it, I hope you’ll share it with friends and family. Pin it to your appetizer board on Pinterest so you can find it easily for your next event. You can also share it on Facebook, text the link, or email it to someone who loves savory pastry treats. Every time you share, you help others discover tasty, reliable recipes they’ll want to make again and again.

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