Eddie Jackson’s Sausage Pinwheels Recipe
These pinwheels are a delightful appetizer that combines the savory flavors of hot Italian sausage, baby spinach, and mozzarella cheese, all wrapped in a simple yet elegant crescent dough. The recipe, shared by Eddie Jackson, holds a special place in his heart, reminiscent of his high school football days when his teammate’s mom would make them for the team’s dinners.
Ingredients
– 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 8 oz. hot Italian sausage (about 3 links), casings removed
– 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
– 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Kosher salt, to taste
– 1 8-ounce tube refrigerated crescent roll dough (keep cold until ready to use)
– All-purpose flour, for dusting
– 3 cups loosely packed baby spinach
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 3/4 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
Directions
1. Prepare the Sausage Mixture: Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, crumbling it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, about 4 minutes. Add the oregano and onion and cook until the onion is softened, about 6 minutes.
2. Enhance with Tomato Paste: Make a space in the center of the skillet and add the tomato paste. Cook for a minute until darkened, then stir it into the sausage mixture. Add 1⁄4 cup water and bring to a simmer; cook until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Scrape into a medium bowl and let cool, about 15 minutes.
3. Prepare the Dough: Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Stir the parmesan into the cooled sausage mixture. Season with salt, if necessary.
4. Assemble the Pinwheels: Unroll the crescent roll dough on a floured surface and separate into 4 rectangles (each made of 2 crescent dough pieces). Press the seams together to create 4 solid rectangles. Roll or press each rectangle until about 6 by 8 inches.
5. Layer the Fillings: Layer a quarter of the spinach on one of the dough rectangles, leaving a 1⁄2-inch border on the two long sides but extending the spinach to both short sides. Sprinkle with a quarter of the parsley. Spread a quarter of the sausage mixture over the top, then sprinkle with a quarter of the mozzarella. Press down on the cheese to compress the filling and adhere it to the dough. Roll the dough tightly from a long side and pinch to seal the seam. With a sharp knife, cut into 6 rounds. Place the rounds cut-side up on one of the prepared baking sheets. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make 24 pinwheels.
6. Bake: Bake, switching the baking sheets halfway through, until the dough is puffed and browned, 12 to 14 minutes. Serve warm.
The Magic of Crescent Rolls
Crescent rolls are a versatile ingredient that can elevate any meal or occasion. They are easy to work with and can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. From simple appetizers like pigs in a blanket to more complex creations like these sausage pinwheels, crescent rolls offer a quick and delicious culinary shortcut.
Benefits of Using Crescent Roll Dough
– Easy to Use: Crescent roll dough is pre-made and found in most grocery stores, making it an accessible ingredient for last-minute meals.
– Versatile: It can be used for a wide range of dishes, from breakfast to dinner.
– Quick Results: With crescent rolls, you can achieve impressive results in under 30 minutes.
Exploring More Crescent Roll Recipes
1. Cheesy Pesto Pinwheels: Combine pesto, mozzarella, and parmesan for a flavorful and stylish appetizer.
2. Cinnamon Rolls: Fill crescent dough with sugar, cinnamon, and butter for a sweet breakfast treat.
3. Pigs in a Blanket: Wrap mini hot dogs in crescent dough for a classic party snack.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make sausage pinwheels ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the pinwheels and refrigerate them before baking. However, for best results, it’s recommended to bake them fresh.
Q: How long do pinwheels keep after baking?
A: They are best served warm, but you can store them at room temperature for a few hours. If refrigerated, they can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use different types of sausage?
A: Yes, you can experiment with various sausages, such as chorizo or sweet Italian sausage, to change the flavor profile.
Conclusion
Eddie Jackson’s Sausage Pinwheels are a perfect blend of flavors and memories, making them a delightful addition to any gathering. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying appetizer for a football game or a casual dinner party, these pinwheels are sure to impress your guests with their savory taste and elegant presentation.
