If you’re a fan of savory bites with a hint of sweetness and a whole lot of comfort, then you’re going to adore this Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly Recipe. These golden, flaky puff pastry parcels stuffed with seasoned sausage and a luscious smear of pepper jelly create the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. They come together quickly, making them ideal for a cozy snack, a picnic treat, or an impressive party appetizer that your friends will keep asking for. Let me walk you through how to make these irresistible sausage rolls that bring both a crispy texture and a juicy filling in every single bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is carefully chosen to bring out the best flavors and textures. From the flaky puff pastry that provides a buttery crunch to the pepper jelly that adds a vibrant pop of sweetness and spice, everything works in delicious harmony.
- 1 pound ground sausage (pork, chicken, or turkey): The rich and savory base that forms the heart of your sausage rolls.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade): Puffy, golden, and buttery, it wraps the filling with irresistible flakiness.
- 1/4 cup pepper jelly (more for serving): Adds a sweet heat that perfectly contrasts the sausage’s savoriness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil): Helps brown the sausage perfectly and carry the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle, warming depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the umami, making the filling more flavorful and aromatic.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional): Offers a gentle earthy note that complements the sausage.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): Creates that irresistible golden and shiny crust when baked.
- Fresh parsley or green onions (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of fresh color and brightness.
How to Make Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Before anything else, get your oven heated to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfectly crisp and golden crust when your sausage rolls bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the ground sausage. Break it up gently with a spoon as it cooks. You want it browned and fully cooked in about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat for a less greasy filling, then let it cool slightly so it’s easier to handle.
Step 3: Season the Sausage
Mix garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme if you’re using it, and salt and pepper into the warm sausage. This seasoning combination enhances the meat’s natural flavors perfectly. Stir well so every bite is packed with savory goodness.
Step 4: Prepare the Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry sheet. Cut it into 4 to 6 strips depending on how large you want your rolls. The size is up to you, but I love making slightly smaller rolls because they’re perfect for snacking.
Step 5: Assemble the Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly Recipe
This is where the magic really happens. Spread a thin line of pepper jelly down the center of each pastry strip. Then spoon the seasoned sausage mixture evenly on top of the jelly. Carefully fold the pastry edges over to enclose the sausage, forming a neat log shape. Press the edges firmly to seal so none of that tasty filling escapes!
Step 6: Prepare the Egg Wash
Beat the egg in a small bowl, then brush it over the top of each roll. This simple step gives the pastry that stunning glossy, golden finish that makes these sausage rolls look as good as they taste.
Step 7: Bake the Rolls
Place the sausage rolls seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Bake them for 20 to 25 minutes until the pastry is beautiful and puffed up, with a mouthwatering golden color. By the time they’re out of the oven, your kitchen will smell like the most inviting comfort food ever.
How to Serve Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top adds a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens these luscious savory rolls. It’s a small detail but one that really elevates the presentation and adds a subtle crunch and aroma.
Side Dishes
These sausage rolls are fantastic on their own but pairing them with a crisp green salad or tangy coleslaw helps balance the richness. A simple bowl of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette complements the pepper jelly’s sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Slice each sausage roll into bite-sized pinwheels for easy finger food. Arrange them on a large platter with dollops of extra pepper jelly for dipping and some colorful veggie sticks on the side. This transforms them into a delightful party platter that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any sausages rolls leftover (though I bet there won’t be many!), place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days, making for a quick snack or lunch later on.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked sausage rolls assembled on a baking sheet, covered tightly with plastic wrap. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, just pop them straight into the oven—no thawing needed! This is perfect for planning ahead or quick snacks any time.
Reheating
To reheat, place the rolls on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. This keeps the puff pastry flaky and the filling juicy, so nothing gets soggy or dull.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! Pork sausage is classic, but chicken or turkey sausage works wonderfully too if you want a lighter option. Just make sure whichever you use is fully cooked before assembling the rolls.
Is it okay to make the pepper jelly from scratch?
Yes! Homemade pepper jelly adds a lovely personal touch. Plus, you can control the heat level to suit your taste. If you don’t have time, a good quality store-bought pepper jelly works just as well.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the sausage with a flavorful plant-based sausage or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils. The pepper jelly still adds that beautiful sweet-spicy punch that makes these rolls stand out.
What is the best puff pastry to use?
Store-bought frozen puff pastry is a convenient choice that works wonderfully here. Just thaw it according to package instructions before rolling. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade puff pastry takes the texture to a whole new level.
How spicy is the pepper jelly in this recipe?
The pepper jelly adds a moderate heat paired with sweetness, which complements the savory sausage perfectly without overwhelming the palate. You can adjust the amount if you prefer it milder or hotter.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the flaky, golden exterior of sausage rolls paired with juicy, flavorful sausage and that sweet-spicy burst from pepper jelly. This Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough to make any day but special enough for festive occasions. Go ahead and give it a try—you might just find your new favorite snack or appetizer to share with family and friends!
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Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Sausage Rolls with Pepper Jelly are a delicious, flaky pastry treat filled with savory spiced sausage and a sweet-spicy pepper jelly glaze. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party finger food, these rolls combine the rich flavors of ground sausage seasoned with garlic, onion, and thyme, enveloped in buttery puff pastry with a glossy egg wash finish. Serve warm with extra pepper jelly for dipping and garnish with fresh herbs for added freshness and color.
Ingredients
Sausage Filling
- 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 and Toppings
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup pepper jelly (more for serving)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley or green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat and let the sausage cool slightly.
- Season the Sausage: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well and allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes to make handling easier.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet. Cut it into 4 to 6 even strips, depending on your preferred size for the rolls.
- Assemble the Sausage Rolls: Spread a thin layer of pepper jelly along 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, pressing the edges to seal completely.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of each sausage roll to give a golden, shiny finish upon baking.
- Bake the Sausage Rolls: Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed, golden, and cooked through.
- Serve: Allow the sausage rolls to cool for a few minutes 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 use any ground sausage—pork, chicken, or turkey—based on your preference.
- Adjust the amount of pepper jelly to taste; it’s a key flavor contrast with the savory sausage.
- If you don’t have puff pastry, crescent roll dough can be a quick substitute.
- To make the sausage rolls ahead, assemble and freeze them before baking. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute sausage with a plant-based meat alternative and ensure your pastry is vegan-friendly.
