Sausage Brunch Braid
A savory brunch centerpiece featuring flaky crescent rolls filled with spicy pork sausage, tender vegetables, and melted cream cheese, topped with fresh herbs. Perfect for weekend gatherings or special brunches, it combines hearty flavors with a beautiful presentation to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 12 oz. bulk pork sausage ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped onions ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped celery ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped green peppers ⓘ
- 1 garlic clove, minced ⓘ
- 1 (3 oz.) package cream cheese, cubed ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chopped green onion tops ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. minced fresh parsley ⓘ
- Salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
- 1 (8 oz.) tube refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1 egg, lightly beaten ⓘ
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage, chopped onions, chopped celery, chopped green peppers, and minced garlic until the meat is no longer pink and vegetables are tender; drain.
- Add cubed cream cheese, chopped green onion tops, and minced parsley to the skillet. Cook and stir over low heat until the cheese is melted.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and arrange it on a baking sheet, shaping it into a braid or rectangle.
- Spread the sausage mixture along the center of the dough.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and braid or fold to seal.
- Brush the top with the lightly beaten egg.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Slice and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, you can substitute the cream cheese with ricotta or even goat cheese. If you're short on time, pre-cooked sausage works well. Feel free to add in other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor. Ensure the crescent dough is at room temperature for easier handling. If you prefer a flaky texture, don't skip the egg wash before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This sausage brunch braid is perfect for brunch gatherings and pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad. Serve it alongside a dollop of sour cream or your favorite hot sauce for added flavor. It also makes a great centerpiece for a breakfast spread, alongside dishes like Quick And Easy Ham Rolls or Egg And Bacon Spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This will help maintain the crispiness of the crescent dough. You can also microwave it, but the texture may not be as flaky.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Brunch Braid contains roughly 264 calories, with 7g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1186mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the braid a few hours in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. This is a great way to save time on busy mornings. However, it's best to bake it fresh for optimal taste and texture.
Can I freeze the sausage brunch braid?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled but uncooked braid. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed for a convenient meal.
What other fillings can I use?
Feel free to get creative with the filling! You can use cooked chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian option with beans and cheese. Adding different spices or herbs can also elevate the flavor. This recipe is very versatile and can be tailored to your taste preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).