Mini Spicy Sausage Poppers

Name: Mini Spicy Sausage Poppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 poppers
Ingredients: 1 lb spicy sausage; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 package of puff pastry sheets; 1 egg, beaten for egg wash; Salt & pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes

I love making Mini Spicy Sausage Poppers for gatherings because they are packed with flavor and are always a hit! The combination of spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and a crispy outer layer creates little bites of joy that I can’t resist. Plus, they’re quick and easy to prepare, which is perfect for busy weekends or last-minute parties. Once you try these poppers, you’ll find yourself reaching for them at every event, satisfying your cravings for something savory and indulgent.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-16T13:56:28.611Z

Making these Mini Spicy Sausage Poppers has become somewhat of a tradition in my house, especially during the fall. I love experimenting with different types of sausage to mix things up, but I always lean toward spicy varieties for that extra kick. Pairing them with a tangy dipping sauce elevates the whole experience, making it a memorable treat.

One specific tip I discovered is to let the poppers cool for just a few minutes after baking. This helps the cheesy filling settle slightly, making them easier to handle while maintaining their delicious meltiness. Trust me, this small step dramatically improves the final result!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with spicy flavor in every bite
Perfectly crispy exterior with a gooey center
Ideal for parties, game days, or any gathering

      

Ingredient Highlights

The stars of the Mini Spicy Sausage Poppers are undoubtedly the spicy sausage and creamy cheeses. The spicy sausage brings a robust flavor that is more than enough to stand alone, but when blended with the oozy cheddar and rich cream cheese, it creates a mouthwatering filling. I recommend using a good-quality spicy sausage; it makes all the difference in achieving that crave-worthy kick. If you want to control the heat levels, consider using a mild sausage and adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.

Puff pastry is another integral component of this dish, offering a light and flaky texture that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling. When rolled to the right thickness, it provides a crispy shell that crumbles delightfully with each bite. Be sure to keep the pastry cool and work with it quickly to maintain its flakiness. If you're in a bind, phyllo dough can be a substitute, though your poppers will have a different texture.

Assembly Tips

When assembling the poppers, it's essential to avoid overfilling. A tablespoon of the filling in the center of each pastry square is just the right amount to ensure they cook evenly without bursting open. If you do encounter a burst, don’t fret! Just keep an eye on those during baking, and consider crimping the edges with a fork for an added seal, which can help prevent leaks while also creating a decorative edge.

When sealing the poppers, ensure to pinch the corners tightly. This can minimize the risk of any leaks during baking, which can create a mess on your baking sheet. If you're making these for a gathering, they can also be pre-assembled and placed on the baking sheet, then covered with plastic wrap and refrigerated for a few hours beforehand. Just add a few extra minutes to baking time if they start from the fridge.

Serving and Storing

These Mini Spicy Sausage Poppers are best served hot out of the oven for that perfect crispy experience. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they are heated through. This will help restore some of their original crispiness, unlike using the microwave, which can make them soggy.

For meal planning, you can prepare these ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Simply assemble the poppers, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time for a crispy result.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

1 lb spicy sausage
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 package of puff pastry sheets
1 egg, beaten for egg wash
Salt & pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best consistency.

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the spicy sausage, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Roll Out the Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into small squares, approximately 3x3 inches in size.

Assemble the Poppers

Place a tablespoon of the sausage mixture in the center of each pastry square. Fold the corners over the filling and pinch to seal tightly.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush with the beaten egg, and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving, and don’t forget the dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating some chopped jalapeños or green onions into the filling mix.

Variations

While spicy sausage is the traditional choice, feel free to experiment with different types of meat like chicken sausage or even turkey sausage for a lighter alternative. Vegetarian options could include a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and crumbled feta, which would provide an equally satisfying bite without the meat. The cream cheese can be swapped out for a dairy-free alternative if you're catering to dietary restrictions.

You can also play around with the kinds of cheese used. Swap the cheddar for pepper jack for an extra zing, or experiment with smoked gouda for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sausage. Mixing in herbs like chopped chives or fresh cilantro can elevate the flavor profile as well.

Common Troubleshooting

If your poppers seem too greasy after baking, it may be due to not using enough cream cheese or letting the sausage mixture sit for too long before filling the pastries. Ideally, the filling should be mixed just prior to assembly to avoid excess moisture. Always drain any fat from the sausage after cooking to prevent a soggy filling.

Additionally, if the pastry is not rising properly during baking, it could be that it was too warm when going into the oven. Puff pastry works best when it’s chilled. If you find that your pastry didn’t puff up as expected, try to work quickly and return any leftover pastry to the refrigerator for a few minutes before reusing.

Perfect Pairings

These poppers pair wonderfully with dipping sauces. A tangy barbecue sauce adds a nice sweetness that counters the spiciness, while a creamy ranch dressing complements the richness of the cheese. For something with a kick, a chipotle mayo or sriracha aioli can be a crowd-pleaser, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite.

For serving at gatherings, consider placing a platter of fresh veggies and dips alongside your poppers. This not only provides a refreshing contrast but also encourages guests to mix and match flavors. That way, each bite can be customized according to personal taste, enhancing the overall experience of enjoying these delectable mini bites.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with any sausage flavor you enjoy, such as Italian or chicken sausage.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

→ Can I freeze these poppers?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked poppers. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag.

→ What can I use as a dipping sauce?

These poppers pair well with ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or a tangy hot sauce for dipping!