Name: Sausage Puff Pastry Twists
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed; 1/2 lb breakfast sausage (or any ground sausage); 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Why You’ll Love Sausage Puff Pastry Twists Recipe

These twists are the perfect combination of savory flavors and satisfying textures. The puff pastry gets delightfully flaky and golden, while the sausage, pesto, and cheese filling delivers rich taste in every bite. They’re easy to make, ideal for gatherings, and versatile enough for casual snacking or party platters.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 sheets thawed puff pastry
1 lb pork sausage (in tube)
8 oz softened cream cheese
1/2 cup pesto
1 tsp red pepper flakes
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 beaten egg
Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cook the pork sausage according to its package instructions, breaking it into smaller pieces until fully cooked. Set aside to cool for about 15 minutes.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled sausage, softened cream cheese, pesto, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well incorporated.
Unfold each sheet of puff pastry on the prepared baking sheets. Divide the sausage mixture evenly between the two sheets and spread to the edges.
Sprinkle about 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese over each pastry sheet.
Fold each pastry sheet in half horizontally, then use a pizza cutter to cut each into 10 strips.
Twist each strip approximately three times and lay them flat on the baking sheets.
Brush the twists with the beaten egg and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before serving with marinara sauce if desired.

Servings and timing

Yield: About 20 twists
Prep time: Approximately 10 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: Around 50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeño to the filling for extra heat.
• Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh chopped basil or oregano into the sausage mixture for more herbal flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Use fontina, provolone, or cheddar instead of mozzarella for different cheese profiles.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the pork sausage with plant‑based sausage and choose a vegetarian pesto.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover twists in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat and preserve crispiness, warm them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 6–8 minutes until heated through and flaky.

FAQs

What type of puff pastry should I use?

Use store‑bought frozen puff pastry that’s been thawed according to package directions. All‑butter varieties give the best flavor and flakiness.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the twists and refrigerate them covered for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re chilled.

Can I freeze these twists?

You can freeze the unbaked twists on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the baking time.

What sausage can I use instead of pork?

Feel free to swap in turkey, chicken, or plant‑based sausages to suit your preferences.

What can I serve with these?

These are great with marinara, garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or even a balsamic glaze.

Are these spicy?

The recipe includes red pepper flakes for a mild kick, but you can adjust the amount or omit it for a milder flavor.

Can I use pre‑shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese tends to melt more smoothly because it doesn’t contain anti‑caking agents.

How do I get the twists perfectly golden?

Brushing the beaten egg on top before baking helps achieve that rich golden color.

What if my pastry isn’t puffing?

Ensure your oven is fully preheated and avoid opening the door early in the baking process to maintain heat.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

You can finely dice spinach, bell peppers, or onions and sauté them briefly before mixing with the sausage for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

These Sausage Puff Pastry Twists are an easy, crowd‑pleasing appetizer or snack that combines flaky pastry with savory sausage and cheesy goodness. Whether for a party or a flavorful treat at home, they’re simple to prepare and endlessly customizable to your taste. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce for maximum deliciousness.