Cheesy Sausage Puff Pastry Rolls

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet  puff pastry, thawed
• 1/2 pound (225g) ground  sausage (Italian sausage, breakfast sausage, or your favorite type)
• 1 cup shredded  cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage Filling

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked. Remove excess fat and transfer the sausage to a bowl to cool slightly.
• Mix in shredded cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If using Dijon mustard, mix it in as well.

1. Roll Out the Puff Pastry

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle (if not pre-rolled).
• Spread the sausage mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on one side for sealing.

1. Roll and Slice

• Starting from the edge with the filling, roll the puff pastry tightly into a log.
• Use the unfilled border to seal the roll by brushing it lightly with beaten egg and pressing it closed.
• Slice the roll into 1-inch pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up.

1. Finishing Touch

• Brush the tops of the rolls with the remaining beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish.
• Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese or a pinch of paprika on top for extra flavor.

1. Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and flaky.
• Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with dipping sauces like marinara, honey mustard, or ranch.
• Pair with a fresh salad or soup for a light meal.

Tips for Success:

• Thaw the puff pastry properly: Ensure it’s fully thawed but still cold to prevent tearing.
• Don’t overfill: Too much filling can make it difficult to roll and cause leaks during baking.
• Use high-quality cheese: It makes a big difference in flavor and texture.