Description
Kilted Sausage Bites are cheesy, savory party appetizers featuring smoked sausage wrapped in puff pastry with a flavorful cheese mixture. Perfectly golden and puffed, these bites combine sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese with spices for a delicious snack ideal for game days and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Filling
- 2 packages (14 ounces each) fully cooked smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Dough and Topping
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the oven and baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Make the cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Prepare the puff pastry: Lightly flour a work surface and roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly to smooth out any creases. Cut the pastry into 2-inch squares ready for filling.
- Assemble the bites: Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square, then top it with a slice of smoked sausage. Carefully wrap the pastry around the sausage and cheese, pinching the seams tightly to seal so no filling escapes during baking.
- Apply egg wash and arrange on sheet: Place each wrapped bite seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush the tops with the beaten egg wash to give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
- Bake until golden and puffed: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the puff pastry is fully cooked, puffed up, and golden brown.
- Cool and garnish: Allow the sausage bites to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a spicier twist, substitute hot smoked sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
- These bites can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Serve with honey mustard or spicy aioli for dipping to enhance flavor.
