Sausage Stars(Makes 4 To 5 Dozen.)
Sausage Stars are savory bite-sized appetizers featuring sausage, melted cheeses, and olives, perfect for parties and gatherings with a flavorful, cheesy, savory profile.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked, crumbled sausage ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups grated sharp Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups grated Monterey Jack cheese ⓘ
- 1 cup prepared Hidden Valley Ranch dressing ⓘ
- 1 (2.25 oz) can sliced ripe olives ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped red or green peppers ⓘ
- 1 package fresh or frozen won ton wrappers or egg roll wrappers, cut into fourths ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook sausage on stove and blot with paper towels to remove grease.
- Combine cooked sausage with grated Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, ranch dressing, sliced olives, and chopped peppers. Mix well.
- Refrigerate the mixture until needed.
- Lightly grease mini-muffin tins and press a quarter of a won ton wrapper into each cavity, forming a star shape.
- Brush the won ton wrapper with oil.
- Bake for 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and remove from tins.
- Fill each won ton shell with the sausage mixture.
- Place filled shells on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5 minutes until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using turkey sausage instead of traditional pork for a lighter option. You can also substitute the cheeses with your favorites, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick. If you don't have won ton wrappers, egg roll wrappers can work well too. Make sure to keep the sausage mixture chilled before filling the shells to prevent sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
These Sausage Stars make excellent appetizers for parties or game days. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or a platter of fresh veggies and dip for a well-rounded presentation. They also pair nicely with a spicy dip or a side of salsa for an extra flavor kick. For brunch, consider serving them next to a Breakfast Dish for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as it may make the wrappers soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Stars(Makes 4 To 5 Dozen.) contains roughly 91 calories, with 5g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% 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 the sausage mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just ensure to fill the won ton wrappers and bake them shortly before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can I freeze the filled won ton shells?
Yes, you can freeze the filled won ton shells. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for ranch dressing?
If you're looking for a substitute for ranch dressing, consider using a mixture of sour cream, mayonnaise, and your favorite herbs. Alternatively, a homemade dressing with yogurt, garlic powder, and dill can provide a similar creamy texture and flavor profile.
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).