If you love the comforting, flaky goodness of sausage rolls with a surprising sweet and spicy kick, then you are absolutely going to adore this Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly Recipe. It beautifully combines juicy, seasoned sausage wrapped in crisp, golden puff pastry with a luscious layer of pepper jelly that adds an irresistible contrast of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just craving a cozy snack, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant bite-sized delight that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting down to the heart of this recipe, you’ll find that the ingredients are refreshingly simple yet thoughtfully chosen to bring out the best in every bite. Each one enhances the texture, flavor, or color, making these sausage rolls truly memorable.
- 1 pound ground sausage (pork, chicken, or turkey): The star protein that’s juicy and flavorful, providing a savory base.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade): Offers light, flaky layers that perfectly encase the sausage mixture.
- 1/4 cup pepper jelly (more for serving): Adds a sweet-and-spicy punch that elevates the entire roll.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil): Used to cook the sausage gently and keep it moist.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a deep, savory aroma and subtle heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Builds up a mild sweetness and complexity in the sausage.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional): A touch of earthiness that complements the meat beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance flavors.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): Creates a glossy, golden finish on the pastry once baked.
- Fresh parsley or green onions (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of freshness and vibrant color.
How to Make Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prep creates the perfect environment for your sausage rolls to bake evenly and ensures a simple cleanup afterward.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage
Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the ground sausage. Break it apart with your spoon and cook it thoroughly until it’s nicely browned, about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat—the last thing you want is greasy pastry—and let the sausage cool slightly to avoid melting the puff pastry later.
Step 3: Season the Sausage
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme if you’re using it, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so the sausage mixture is now bursting with flavor. Cooling the sausage a bit here is key; it keeps your pastry from turning soggy and helps everything stay intact.
Step 4: Prepare the Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out your puff pastry sheet. Cut it into 4 to 6 strips depending on how big or mini you want your sausage rolls to be. This step gets you ready for the most fun part: assembling!
Step 5: Assemble the Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly Recipe
Spread a thin, even layer of that heavenly pepper jelly down the center of each pastry strip. Next, spoon the savory sausage mixture on top of the jelly, then carefully fold the edges of the pastry over to seal the sausage inside. Press the seams firmly so nothing leaks out while baking.
Step 6: Prepare the Egg Wash
Beat the egg in a small bowl and use a pastry brush to generously paint the tops of your sausage rolls. This egg wash guarantees a shiny, mouthwatering golden crust once they bake. It’s an easy trick that instantly elevates the appearance.
Step 7: Bake the Rolls
Place your assembled sausage rolls seam-side down on the lined baking sheet. Slide them into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, watching as the puff pastry puffs up and turns a gorgeous, irresistible golden brown.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Let the sausage rolls cool just enough to handle and serve them warm with extra pepper jelly on the side for dipping. Optional garnishes like fresh parsley or chopped green onions add a burst of color and freshness that makes these treats even more inviting.
How to Serve Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thinly sliced green onions adds not only a pop of vibrant green but also a subtle freshness that balances the richness of the sausage rolls. These garnishes bring a lovely finish to the presentation, making them look just as delicious as they taste.
Side Dishes
These sausage rolls pair wonderfully with crisp side salads featuring mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette, offering a refreshing counterpoint. Alternatively, serve alongside a hearty soup like tomato basil or butternut squash to round out a cozy meal perfect for any season.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, slice the sausage rolls into bite-sized pinwheels and arrange them on a festive platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. You can also serve them as part of a brunch spread with a selection of dips, cheeses, and fresh fruit to create an inviting communal table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover sausage rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy the flavors without losing the flaky texture—just be sure to reheat them gently to keep the crust crisp.
Freezing
Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly Recipe freezes beautifully either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble them as usual, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adjusting time as needed. For baked rolls, cool completely then freeze in a sealed container for up to one month.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the pastry regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pastry soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute pork sausage with chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian sausage option. Just be mindful of seasoning adjustments since some sausages are already well-seasoned.
Is it okay to use homemade puff pastry?
Yes, homemade puff pastry works wonderfully here and can add an extra dimension of freshness and flakiness. However, store-bought versions offer a great time-saving option with excellent results.
How spicy is this recipe with pepper jelly?
The spice level depends on the pepper jelly you choose. You can find milder or hotter varieties according to your taste. It’s a subtle heat that balances the sweetness and savory sausage well.
Can I prepare these sausage rolls in advance for a party?
Definitely! You can assemble them a few hours ahead, keep them refrigerated, and then bake right before your guests arrive. This helps save time while still serving fresh, warm rolls.
What can I serve instead of pepper jelly?
If pepper jelly isn’t available, try fruit preserves with a bit of added chili flakes or a sweet chili sauce for a similar sweet-spicy effect, although the flavor profile will vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, golden sausage roll that combines savory meat with a touch of sweet heat from pepper jelly. This Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly Recipe is a keeper for casual nights, parties, or snack cravings. I encourage you to give it a try—once you do, it will quickly become one of those beloved recipes you keep making again and again.
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Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These delicious Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly are a perfect savory snack or appetizer featuring seasoned ground sausage wrapped in flaky puff pastry with a sweet and spicy pepper jelly glaze. Crispy, flavorful, and easy to make, they’re a crowd-pleaser for parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound ground sausage (pork, chicken, or turkey)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup pepper jelly (more for serving)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the cooked sausage aside to cool slightly.
- Season the Sausage: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme if using, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
- Prepare the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet. Cut the sheet into 4 to 6 even strips depending on your preferred roll size.
- Assemble the Sausage Rolls: Spread a thin layer of pepper jelly down the center of each pastry strip. Spoon the sausage mixture evenly over the jelly. Fold the pastry sides over the sausage to form a log shape and press the edges firmly to seal well.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl. Brush the tops of each sausage roll generously with the egg wash to achieve a beautiful golden, shiny finish after baking.
- Bake the Rolls: Place the sausage rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and puffed and the sausage is completely cooked.
- Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with extra pepper jelly on the side for dipping, and garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute the ground sausage with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- If using frozen puff pastry, thaw completely before rolling and assembling.
- Make sure to seal the pastry edges tightly to prevent filling from leaking while baking.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Adjust spice level by choosing a milder or hotter pepper jelly according to your taste.
