Cheesy Spiced Sausage Rolls With Roasted Red Pepper Swirl

Looking for a show-stopping appetizer or a satisfying snack? These Cheesy Spiced Sausage Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Swirl are guaranteed to be a hit! We’re taking the classic sausage roll to a whole new level with a vibrant roasted red pepper and cream cheese swirl, a generous helping of mozzarella, and a kick of spice. This recipe combines convenience – using store-bought pizza dough – with incredible homemade flavor. Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night in, these rolls are surprisingly easy to make and utterly irresistible. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this flavor-packed treat!

Ingredients

• 500g (4 cups) Pizza Dough: We recommend using a good quality store-bought pizza dough to save time, but feel free to use your favorite homemade recipe. Ensure the dough is at room temperature for easier rolling.
• 150g (5oz) Halal-Certified Spiced Beef Sausage: The spiced beef sausage is the star of the show! Using a halal-certified option ensures inclusivity. Thinly slicing the sausage is crucial for even distribution within the rolls.
• 150g (1 cup) Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella provides that classic cheesy pull and a mild, creamy flavor that complements the sausage and red pepper. Pre-shredded mozzarella is convenient, but freshly shredded melts even better.
• 100g (3½oz) Cream Cheese, Softened: Softened cream cheese is essential for creating a smooth and spreadable swirl filling. Full-fat cream cheese delivers the best flavor and texture.
• 80g (½ cup) Roasted Red Bell Pepper, Finely Chopped: Roasting the red pepper intensifies its sweetness and adds a smoky depth of flavor. You can roast your own or use jarred roasted red peppers, ensuring they are well-drained and finely chopped.
• ½ tsp Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a wonderful smoky aroma and a subtle heat that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• ¼ tsp Chili Flakes: A pinch of chili flakes provides a gentle warmth. Adjust the amount to your preference – add more for a spicier kick!
• ½ tsp Garlic Powder: Garlic powder offers a convenient way to infuse the filling with a savory garlic flavor.
• 1 tbsp (15ml) Olive Oil, plus 1 tsp for Sauce: Olive oil is used for brushing the baking sheet and warming the sauce. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to Taste: Seasoning is key! Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the salt and pepper levels throughout the recipe.
• 1 Egg + 1 tbsp Water, Beaten (Egg Wash) – or Plant-Based Alternative: The egg wash gives the sausage rolls a beautiful golden-brown color and a glossy finish. For a vegan option, use a plant-based milk alternative.
• 2 tbsp (≈6g) Fresh Parsley, Chopped – for Garnish: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
• Optional: Extra 30g (¼ cup) Shredded Mozzarella for Topping: Adding extra mozzarella on top creates an even cheesier and more decadent crust.

Substitutions

Feel free to customize these sausage rolls to your liking! Here are a few substitution ideas:

• Sausage: You can substitute the spiced beef sausage with Italian sausage, chorizo, or even chicken sausage.
• Pizza Dough: Puff pastry can be used instead of pizza dough for a flakier texture.
• Red Pepper: Yellow or orange bell peppers can be used in place of red peppers, though the flavor will be slightly different.
• Mozzarella: Monterey Jack or provolone cheese can be used as alternatives to mozzarella.

Let’s Roll: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Sausage Rolls

1. Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). Lightly oil a large rimmed baking sheet. This prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
2. Craft the Roasted Red Pepper Swirl: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped roasted red pepper, smoked paprika, chili flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, vibrant swirl filling. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – a little extra chili flake can add a delightful kick!
3. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle approximately 0.5 cm (¼-inch) thick. Aim for a consistent thickness to ensure even cooking. Cut the rectangle into strips, each about 5 cm (2-inches) wide.
4. Assemble the Filling: Lay a thin line of shredded mozzarella cheese down the center of each dough strip. This creates a delicious cheesy base. Place 2-3 slices of the thinly sliced spiced beef sausage over the cheese. Finally, carefully drop a teaspoon of the prepared roasted red pepper cream mixture on top of the sausage.
5. Roll and Seal: Starting at one short edge of the dough strip, roll it tightly to create a neat sausage roll. As you roll, ensure the seam is well-sealed by dabbing it with a little water. This prevents the filling from escaping during baking.
6. Arrange and Brush: Place the finished sausage rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each roll. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the sausage rolls with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and a glossy finish. If desired, sprinkle a little extra shredded mozzarella over the top for an extra cheesy crust.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the sausage rolls are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
8. Prepare the Drizzle: While the rolls are baking, gently warm the remaining roasted red pepper cream mixture with 1 tsp of olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until the sauce is glossy and smooth. Be careful not to overheat it.
9. Finish and Serve: Remove the baked sausage rolls from the oven and let them rest for 2 minutes. Drizzle the warm roasted red pepper cream sauce over each roll in a thin, elegant line. Finish with a generous scattering of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Why Spiced Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper are a Match Made in Heaven

The combination of spiced sausage and roasted red pepper isn’t accidental. The sweetness of the roasted red pepper beautifully balances the savory, often slightly fiery, notes of the spiced sausage. The cream cheese swirl adds a luxurious texture and further mellows the spice, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This pairing is rooted in Mediterranean and Spanish culinary traditions, where sweet and savory combinations are highly valued.

Tips for the Best Sausage Roll Dough

While store-bought pizza dough is convenient, using a homemade dough can elevate these sausage rolls to another level. A slightly enriched dough – one with a touch of olive oil or even a little milk – will result in a softer, more tender roll. If using store-bought dough, let it come to room temperature before rolling, as this will make it more pliable and easier to work with. Don’t overwork the dough, as this can make it tough.

Spice Level Customization

The amount of chili flakes in this recipe can be adjusted to suit your preference. If you enjoy a milder flavor, reduce the chili flakes to ¼ teaspoon or omit them altogether. For those who like a significant kick, you can increase the amount to ½ teaspoon or even ¾ teaspoon. You can also experiment with different types of chili flakes, such as Aleppo pepper flakes, for a unique flavor profile.

Make-Ahead Options for Effortless Entertaining

These Cheesy Spiced Sausage Rolls are perfect for making ahead of time. You can assemble the rolls completely and store them, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can prepare the roasted red pepper swirl and slice the sausage in advance to streamline the assembly process. This makes them a fantastic option for parties or gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes, you can! Italian sausage, chorizo, or even chicken sausage would all work well in this recipe. Just make sure the sausage is well-seasoned and flavorful.

Can I freeze these sausage rolls?

Absolutely. Baked or unbaked sausage rolls can be frozen. For best results, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

These Cheesy Spiced Sausage Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Swirl are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest for later inspiration!

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• Author: Sarah Mali
• Total Time: 38 minutes
• Yield: 12 rolls 1x
• Diet: General

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Description

These Cheesy Spiced Sausage Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Swirl are a flavorful appetizer or snack, combining store-bought pizza dough with a spiced sausage and creamy roasted red pepper filling. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 350g (2.6 cups) Pizza Dough: Use room temperature dough for easy rolling.
• 150g (5oz) Spiced Beef Sausage: Thinly sliced for even distribution.
• 150g (1 cup) Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded, provides a cheesy pull.
• 100g (3½oz) Cream Cheese: Softened, for a smooth swirl.
• 80g (½ cup) Roasted Red Pepper: Finely chopped, adds sweetness.
• ½ tsp Smoked Paprika: Adds smoky aroma.
• ¼ tsp Chili Flakes: Adjust to taste for desired heat.
• ½ tsp Garlic Powder: For savory flavor.
• 1 tbsp (15ml) Olive Oil: For brushing and warming sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• 1 Egg + 1 tbsp Water: Egg wash for golden color.
• 2 tbsp (≈6g) Parsley: Chopped, for garnish.
• Optional: 30g (¼ cup) Mozzarella: Extra cheese for topping.

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Instructions

1. Prep Oven & Sheet: Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F) and oil a baking sheet.
2. Make Pepper Swirl: Combine cream cheese, red pepper, paprika, chili flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll & Fill Dough: Roll out dough, cut into strips, add mozzarella, sausage, and pepper swirl.
4. Roll & Seal: Roll up dough tightly, sealing the seam with water.
5. Arrange & Brush: Place rolls seam-down on sheet, brush with egg wash, and add extra mozzarella (optional).
6. Bake & Drizzle: Bake 15-18 minutes until golden. Warm remaining pepper mixture with olive oil and drizzle over rolls.
7. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with parsley and serve.

Notes

For a vegan option, use a plant-based milk alternative for the egg wash. Assembling ahead of time and freezing is a great time saver.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg