Flaky, buttery puff pastry wrapped around juicy, seasoned sausage and gooey melted cheese – these Cheesy Puff Pastry Sausage Pinwheels are what savory snack dreams are made of. Perfect as an appetizer, game-day bite, or even a fun twist for breakfast, these little swirls are fast, flavorful, and entirely irresistible.

They come together in minutes and bake to golden perfection, giving you a crispy edge with every bite and a satisfying cheesy center. Whether you’re hosting a party or need a make-ahead brunch idea, this pinwheel recipe delivers both comfort and convenience.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Puff Pastry Sausage Pinwheels Recipe
These pinwheels strike the perfect balance between ease and elegance. Using store-bought puff pastry saves time without sacrificing texture or taste, and the sausage-cheese combo guarantees crowd-pleasing flavor. They’re easy to prep ahead, freezer-friendly, and can be customized with herbs, veggies, or spice levels to suit your cravings.
What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?
For best results, opt for all-butter puff pastry sheets if available—they offer richer flavor and flakier texture. Brands like Dufour or Pepperidge Farm (thawed overnight in the fridge) work well. Make sure the pastry is cold but pliable before rolling to prevent tearing and ensure those beautiful layers puff up just right.
Ingredients for the Cheesy Puff Pastry Sausage Pinwheels
Every ingredient in this recipe adds depth and dimension. Here’s why each matters:
- Puff Pastry Sheets: The crisp, golden vessel for all that filling. Keep them cold for the flakiest results.
- Breakfast Sausage (or Italian Sausage): Adds rich, savory flavor with a hint of spice.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and pairs deliciously with sausage.
- Cream Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy layer that binds everything together.
- Egg (for egg wash): Helps seal the pastry and gives it that golden-brown finish.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): For a pop of color and freshness post-bake.
How To Make the Cheesy Puff Pastry Sausage Pinwheels
Step 1: Cook the Sausage Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbly. Drain excess grease and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix the Cheeses
In a bowl, stir together the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar, and softened cream cheese until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Spread the sausage-cheese mixture evenly, leaving a small border. Roll up tightly from the short edge into a log.
Step 4: Chill and Slice
Wrap the log in plastic wrap and freeze for 10-15 minutes to firm up. Then slice into 1/2-inch rounds using a sharp knife.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush tops with egg wash. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes or until puffed and golden.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Puff Pastry Sausage Pinwheels
These pinwheels are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven, when the cheese is gooey, and the pastry is crisp. They make excellent party platters, holiday appetizers, or brunch additions. This recipe yields about 18 pinwheels, making it perfect for serving 6-8 people as a snack.
To store leftovers, cool completely and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to revive that crispiness. You can also freeze unbaked pinwheels and bake them straight from frozen with a few extra minutes added.
What to Serve With Cheesy Puff Pastry Sausage Pinwheels?
Mini Salad Cups
Serve with fresh veggie-packed salad cups to balance the richness.
Tomato Basil Soup
A warm, comforting soup is the perfect dipper for these savory swirls.
Spicy Mustard or Aioli Dips
Offer a few dipping sauces like honey mustard or garlic aioli for added flair.
Fruit Skewers
Bright, juicy fruit contrasts beautifully with the savory filling.
Deviled Eggs
Classic party fare that pairs well with these hearty bites.
Marinated Olives or Pickles
Their briny bite cuts through the cheesy richness.
Roasted Veggie Platter
An easy, wholesome side that rounds out the meal nicely.
Want More Savory Snack Ideas?
If you love these Cheesy Puff Pastry Sausage Pinwheels, you’ll definitely want to try these other delicious bites:
- Taco Ranch Bites: A Flavor-Packed Mini Delight
- Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes: A Bite-Sized Delight
- Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
- Easy Veggie Patties: A Crispy, Flavorful Delight
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer or brunch board so you can come back to it any time.
Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a spicy kick or mix up the cheese? Did you serve it with a unique dip?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other snack smarter.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nora Nosh Recipes and discover your new go-to for feeling great!
Cheesy Puff Pastry Sausage Pinwheels
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 18 pinwheels
Description
Bite into buttery, flaky pastry wrapped around savory sausage and melted cheese with these Cheesy Puff Pastry Sausage Pinwheels. They’re the perfect crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer that brings effortless flavor to any gathering. Easy to make and ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for brunch, party appetizers, or quick comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a new finger food for game day or simply some fun dinner ideas, these cheesy sausage pinwheels are your answer to easy recipes, snack food ideas, and delicious baked treats.
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry
1/2 pound breakfast sausage (or Italian sausage)
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
3 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbly. Drain excess grease and allow to cool slightly.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar, and softened cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Spread the sausage and cheese mixture evenly across the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Roll up the pastry tightly into a log. Wrap in plastic and freeze for 10–15 minutes to firm up.
5. Slice the log into 1/2-inch rounds using a sharp knife.
6. Arrange the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Make sure the puff pastry stays cold while working with it to achieve the best flakiness.
You can freeze the unbaked pinwheels and bake them straight from frozen—just add 2–3 minutes to the baking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pinwheels
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0.7g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 38mg
