Sausage Pinwheels Appetizer are the perfect little bite-sized treats filled with savory sausage and melted cheese, all wrapped up in flaky, golden puff pastry. These pinwheels have a nice crispy outside and a warm, juicy filling that makes them impossible to resist. They’re a lovely mix of hearty and fun, great for snacking or serving at any party.
I love making these when friends come over because they’re so easy to whip up and everyone always asks for more. My little trick is to add a bit of herbs or a touch of spice to the sausage filling so each bite has a little extra flavor that keeps it interesting. I usually prepare them ahead of time and pop them in the oven right before guests arrive to serve them fresh and warm.
These pinwheels are great with a simple dip like mustard or a little marinara sauce on the side, but honestly, they’re delicious all on their own. I always find that they disappear fast when I bring them out, which just shows how much people love that crispy, cheesy, meaty combination. They’re one of those appetizers that make everyone feel at home and ready to enjoy the gathering.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Puff Pastry
- This is the star for creating those light, flaky layers. You can find it in the freezer section of most stores. If you prefer, phyllo dough can be a substitute, but it will have a crispier, less flaky texture.
- Italian Sausage
- For best flavor, use mild or spicy Italian sausage without the casing. Turkey or chicken sausage can work too if you want a leaner option, just watch for added spices.
- Mozzarella Cheese
- I like shredded mozzarella because it melts smoothly and adds creaminess. You can swap in provolone or cheddar for a different twist.
- Red Bell Pepper & Onion
- These veggies bring sweetness and a bit of crunch. If you don’t have red bell pepper, green or yellow bell pepper works fine too.
- Herbs & Spices
- Fresh parsley and dried oregano add a fresh, herbal note. Feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
How Do I Roll and Slice the Puff Pastry to Get Perfect Pinwheels?
Rolling the sausage mixture tight in the puff pastry is key to keeping the filling together and shaping neat pinwheels:
- Lay the pastry flat and spread the cooled sausage mixture evenly, leaving about a ½ inch border at the edge.
- Sprinkle cheese evenly over the sausage for even melting.
- Start rolling tightly from one long side, like a jelly roll, to avoid gaps.
- Once rolled, chill the log in the fridge for 10-15 minutes if the pastry feels soft; this helps it keep its shape when slicing.
- Use a sharp knife and slice gently with a smooth motion to avoid squishing the filling.
- Place slices cut side up on the baking sheet spaced apart to let the heat circulate and puff the pastry fully.
This approach makes sure you get nice, round pinwheels with a tidy swirl of sausage and cheese inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – for even cooking and to hold all the pinwheels in one place.
- Parchment paper – helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Non-stick skillet – perfect for cooking the sausage and veggies evenly.
- Sharp knife – needed to slice the rolled puff pastry cleanly without squishing.
- Pastry brush – to brush the egg wash for a glossy, golden finish.
- Mixing bowl – handy for combining and resting ingredients if needed.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Italian sausage for chorizo to add a smoky, spicy kick.
- Use smoked cheddar or pepper jack instead of mozzarella for bold cheese flavor.
- Include sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie boost that blends well with sausage.
- Add red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for extra warmth and spice.
Sausage Pinwheels Appetizer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- ½ pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup finely diced red bell pepper
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, so around 30 minutes total. It’s a quick, easy snack that you can enjoy fresh from the oven in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and red bell pepper, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more. Then, add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Stir in oregano, salt, pepper, and parsley. Remove from heat and let it cool a bit.
2. Assemble the Pinwheels:
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle. Spread the cooked sausage mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Starting from one long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into ½ to ¾ inch thick rounds.
3. Bake and Serve:
Arrange the pinwheels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart a little. Beat the egg with a tablespoon of water and brush the tops of each pinwheel to get that lovely golden color. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Let them cool a minute or two, then garnish with extra parsley and red bell pepper bits if you like. Serve warm with your favorite dip, such as mustard or marinara sauce. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the puff pastry completely in the fridge overnight before using it. Working with chilled (not warm) pastry helps it roll smoothly and bake up flaky.
Can I Make Sausage Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and slice the pinwheels, then place them on the baking sheet and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake straight from the fridge, adding a couple extra minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes to keep the pastry crisp.
Can I Use Different Sausage or Cheese?
Yes! Feel free to swap Italian sausage with chorizo, breakfast sausage, or turkey sausage. Mozzarella can be replaced with cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a fun twist.