Sausage Bread Rounds

These sausage bread rounds are a savory, cheesy treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a hearty snack. Fluffy bread dough is stuffed with sweet Italian sausage, mozzarella, and Parmesan, seasoned with garlic and herbs, then baked to golden perfection. Each bite is packed with flavor, making them irresistible for both kids and adults alike.

Behind the Recipe

I first made these sausage bread rounds on a lazy weekend morning, craving something warm, filling, and full of flavor. Using frozen bread dough made prep simple, while the combination of Italian sausage, mozzarella, and Parmesan created a gooey, savory center that everyone loved. It quickly became a family favorite for breakfast and snack time.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Stuffed bread recipes have long been a comfort food staple in Italian-American households. While calzones are a well-known example, smaller stuffed rounds like these are perfect for individual servings. Combining Italian sausage with mozzarella and Parmesan creates a flavor profile reminiscent of pizza, but in a convenient, handheld format.

Why You’ll Love Sausage Bread Rounds

These rounds are truly versatile and satisfying:

Versatile: Serve for breakfast, brunch, or as a party appetizer.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find.

Quick and Easy: Frozen bread dough makes prep fast and effortless.

Customizable: Swap in your favorite cheese or add veggies for variety.

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for kids, adults, and gatherings.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be prepped ahead and baked when needed.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick snack.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Follow these insider tips for perfectly baked sausage rounds:

• Use room-temperature bread dough for even baking.
• Cook sausage thoroughly before stuffing to prevent undercooked centers.
• Don’t overfill the rounds to avoid leakage during baking.
• Brush with egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
• Let baked rounds cool slightly to maintain structure and prevent burning mouths.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large Skillet: To cook and season the sausage before stuffing.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining sausage and seasonings.
• Baking Sheet: To bake the rounds evenly.
• Pastry Brush: For brushing with egg wash.
• Knife or Dough Cutter: To portion dough into individual rounds.

Ingredients in Sausage Bread Rounds

Each ingredient contributes to a rich and savory experience:

1. Sweet Italian Sausage: 1 pound, removed from casing. Provides the main savory filling.
2. Pepper: 1 teaspoon. Enhances flavor with mild heat.
3. Garlic: 2 cloves, chopped. Adds aromatic depth.
4. Oregano: 1 tablespoon. Infuses Italian herb flavor.
5. Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons, divided. Adds nutty, salty richness.
6. Egg: 1 large, divided. One for egg wash, one for mixing in the filling.
7. Frozen Bread Dough: 1 pound loaf, defrosted. Soft and fluffy base for rounds.
8. Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded. Melts into gooey cheesy pockets.
9. Garlic Powder: 4 teaspoons. Boosts garlic flavor in the dough and filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Sweet Italian Sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage for heat.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Try provolone or cheddar for variation.
• Bread Dough: Homemade yeast dough works if available.
• Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano for sharper taste.

Ingredient Spotlight

Sweet Italian Sausage: Adds a perfect balance of savory and sweet, creating the heart of the filling.

Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, stringy interior that complements the bread perfectly.

Instructions for Making Sausage Bread Rounds

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients: Cook sausage with garlic, pepper, and oregano until fully cooked. Mix in 1 large egg and 2 tablespoons Parmesan.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Divide bread dough into individual portions and roll each into a circle.
4. Assemble the Dish: Spoon sausage mixture into the center of each dough circle. Sprinkle mozzarella and remaining Parmesan on top. Fold dough over filling and seal edges.
5. Cook to Perfection: Place rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with remaining egg and sprinkle garlic powder on top. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
6. Finishing Touches: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory snack.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These rounds have a crisp, golden exterior with soft, airy bread inside. The sausage provides a juicy, savory bite, while mozzarella adds gooey, creamy texture. Garlic and Parmesan enhance the flavor, giving a rich, aromatic finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Brush egg wash lightly for even color without sogginess.
• Avoid overstuffing to prevent leaks during baking.
• Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking.

What to Avoid

• Using cold bread dough, which can result in uneven baking.
• Overbaking, which can dry out the bread and filling.
• Skipping seasoning; garlic and herbs are essential for flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 320

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prepare and assemble rounds ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave. They can also be frozen before or after baking for future use.

How to Serve Sausage Bread Rounds

• Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
• Pair with fresh salad for a light lunch.
• Great as a party appetizer or breakfast option.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Slice and add to breakfast casseroles.
• Chop into chunks and mix with scrambled eggs for a savory scramble.
• Serve alongside soups for added protein and flavor.

Additional Tips

• Customize fillings with vegetables or different cheeses.
• Use fresh herbs for brighter flavor.
• Serve slightly warm to enjoy the melted cheese fully.

Make It a Showstopper

Arrange rounds on a wooden platter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with small bowls of dipping sauces for a visually appealing presentation.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Sausage: Substitute with hot Italian sausage.
• Cheese Mix: Add provolone or cheddar to the mozzarella.
• Veggie Fillings: Include bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
• Herbed Dough: Brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with Italian herbs.
• Mini Appetizers: Make smaller rounds for party-friendly bites.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use homemade dough?

Yes, it works just as well as frozen bread dough.

Q2: Can I make ahead?

Yes, assemble rounds and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q3: Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, provolone or cheddar works beautifully with mozzarella.

Q4: How long do leftovers last?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q5: Can I freeze these?

Yes, freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.

Q6: Do I need to cook the sausage first?

Yes, it ensures the filling is fully cooked and flavorful.

Q7: Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely, finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach are great options.

Q8: How do I prevent dough from sticking?

Use parchment paper and lightly flour your hands and surface.

Q9: Can I make them smaller for snacks?

Yes, mini rounds work perfectly for appetizers.

Q10: How can I make them more flavorful?

Season the sausage well and brush the dough with garlic butter before baking.

Conclusion

Sausage bread rounds are a delicious, savory treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any meal or snack. With tender bread, juicy sausage, and gooey cheese, they are a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite.

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