### **Sausage-Stuffed Puff Pastry (Easy & Delicious Appetizer)**
This **Sausage-Stuffed Puff Pastry** is a flaky, savory, and irresistible appetizer or snack that’s perfect for parties, game days, or brunch. The buttery puff pastry wraps around a flavorful sausage filling, creating golden, crispy bites that everyone will love.
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### **Ingredients:**
– **1 sheet puff pastry**, thawed (about 8 oz / 225g)
– **8 oz (225g) sausage** (Italian, chorizo, or breakfast sausage)
– **½ cup shredded cheese** (cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack)
– **1 egg** (for egg wash)
– **1 tsp garlic powder** (optional)
– **1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning** (optional)
– **1 tbsp Dijon mustard or cream cheese** (optional, for extra flavor)
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### **Instructions:**
#### **1. Prep the Puff Pastry:**
– Thaw the **puff pastry** according to package instructions (usually 30–40 minutes at room temp).
– Preheat oven to **400°F (200°C)** and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
#### **2. Cook the Sausage:**
– In a skillet over medium heat, cook the **sausage** (casings removed if needed) until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat.
– Optional: Mix in **garlic powder, oregano, or Dijon mustard** for extra flavor. Let cool slightly.
#### **3. Assemble:**
– Roll out the puff pastry slightly (just enough to smooth creases).
– Spread the **cooked sausage** evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border.
– Sprinkle **shredded cheese** on top.
– Optional: Add a thin layer of **cream cheese or mustard** before rolling.
#### **4. Roll & Cut:**
– Tightly roll the pastry into a log (like a cinnamon roll).
– Slice into **½-inch to 1-inch thick rounds** (like pinwheels).
– Place them on the baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
#### **5. Egg Wash & Bake:**
– Whisk **1 egg** with 1 tbsp water and brush over the pastry.
– Bake for **18–22 minutes**, or until **golden brown and puffed**.
#### **6. Serve Warm!**
– Best served fresh out of the oven. Pair with **marinara sauce, honey mustard, or aioli** for dipping.
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### **Variations:**
**Spicy:** Use **chorizo + pepper jack cheese** + a pinch of cayenne.
**Cheesy Spinach:** Add **sautéed spinach & feta** to the filling.
**Sweet & Savory:** Drizzle with **honey** after baking.
This **Sausage-Stuffed Puff Pastry** is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—easy to make and endlessly customizable! Enjoy! 😋