Looking for a warm, savory breakfast or appetizer that comes together fast and disappears even faster? Sausage pinwheels in biscuit dough check all the boxes. With just two ingredients—biscuit dough and breakfast sausage—this recipe is a go-to for busy mornings, weekend brunches, potlucks, and game days. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from choosing the right sausage and dough to smart prep, storage, and delicious variations. If you want an effortless, crowd-pleasing dish, these pinwheels are hard to beat. Don’t miss our easy Cinnamon Apple Cake if you’re looking for something sweet to serve alongside!
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Why Sausage Pinwheels in Biscuit Dough Are the Perfect Go-To Recipe
What Makes This 2-Ingredient Appetizer So Popular
Simplicity and versatility are what make these pinwheels shine. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, you can prep and bake them in under 30 minutes. The balance of flaky, buttery biscuit layers and seasoned sausage makes each bite rich and satisfying without the need for complicated ingredients or steps.
Unlike many traditional appetizers that require chopping, sautéing, or marinating, these pinwheels rely on the magic of store-bought biscuit dough and raw sausage. That means less prep and more time enjoying the meal.
How These Pinwheels Fit Every Occasion: Breakfast, Brunch & Beyond
One of the best things about sausage pinwheels is how adaptable they are. Serve them hot from the oven for breakfast with eggs and fruit, or stack them on a platter for tailgating. Hosting a holiday brunch? These bite-sized spirals make a festive and filling addition. Their small, easy-to-hold size also makes them perfect for kids or grab-and-go meals.
Discover great ideas like Salted Honey Butter Parker House Rolls if you’re planning a bread basket for brunch!
The Secret Behind Their Perfect Texture and Flavor
The secret is all in the layering. By splitting each biscuit in half and pressing the dough into a single sheet, you create a thin, uniform base. Spread the sausage evenly, then roll tightly and slice. As the pinwheels bake, the biscuit dough rises and crisps on the edges while the sausage cooks inside, infusing every layer with flavor.
Want to boost that savory goodness? Try adding a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or a few diced green chiles before rolling. Just enough to level up the taste—without complicating the process.
Ingredients & Dough Options for Sausage Pinwheels
Essential Ingredients: What You Absolutely Need
Here’s what’s non-negotiable:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated Biscuits | 1 (16.3 oz) can | Use flaky-style or buttermilk |
| Breakfast Sausage | 1 lb | Raw pork sausage, not precooked |
That’s it—just two ingredients. But from there, you can get creative.
Best Biscuits to Use: Canned vs Homemade Dough
The classic version calls for canned refrigerated biscuits. Flaky-layered biscuits work best because they can be split easily into halves, creating more surface area. Brands like Pillsbury Grands! or generic buttermilk biscuits are reliable.
If you prefer homemade, that’s fine too. Just make sure your dough is soft, pliable, and easy to roll. Don’t miss our tip-packed Cream Cheese Swirled Pumpkin Butter Bread for another homemade dough project!
Recommended Sausages: Flavor, Spice, and Substitutes
Stick with a ground breakfast sausage like Jimmy Dean or Tennessee Pride. You can choose mild, hot, or maple-flavored depending on your preference. Want a leaner option? Go for turkey sausage, just be sure it’s raw and not precooked.
If you’re craving more spice or variety, try a mix of hot and sweet sausage—or go gourmet with sage or apple-seasoned blends.
Optional Add-Ins: Cheese, Chiles, and More Flavor Twists
Though this recipe is deliciously simple, small additions can elevate the flavor:
- Shredded cheddar or pepper jack
- Diced green chiles
- A swipe of Dijon mustard or hot honey
- A thin layer of fruit preserves (yes, really!)
Check out Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins for another creative twist on comfort foods.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Sausage Pinwheels in Biscuit Dough
How to Prep Your Biscuit Dough for Rolling
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Then, separate each biscuit in your can into two thinner rounds—this gives you 16 total. Arrange them edge to edge on parchment paper (4×4 pattern), then use a rolling pin to flatten the pieces into a single sheet. Add a sprinkle of flour if the dough sticks.

Spreading the Sausage Right: Techniques for Even Flavor
Break up the raw sausage and gently spread it over the rolled dough. You want an even layer that covers the entire surface without clumping. Use your hands or a small spatula to ensure even distribution.
Looking for inspiration? Try Hashbrown Waffles for another savory breakfast favorite.
Rolling, Cutting & Baking Tips for Perfect Pinwheels
Start from one long edge and carefully roll the dough into a tight log, jelly-roll style. Use a serrated knife to slice the log into 1-inch pieces. You should get around 12–16 pinwheels depending on size.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Expert Tricks: Avoiding Dough Tears and Underbaking
- Use cold dough: Warm dough sticks and tears.
- Don’t overload with sausage or cheese: It can leak out during baking.
- Cut with a serrated knife: Cleaner edges, less smashing.
Want a fun dessert after these pinwheels? Don’t miss our Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups, a hidden gem that deserves more love.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
How to Store Sausage Pinwheels for Freshness
Once baked and cooled, store your sausage pinwheels in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Line the container with a paper towel to absorb any excess grease and keep them from becoming soggy.
For best flavor and texture, avoid stacking them too tightly—this helps maintain that flaky, tender crust. You can also wrap them individually in foil for easier grab-and-go options.
The Right Way to Reheat (Microwave vs Oven)
Reheating is simple, but doing it right makes a big difference. You have two great options:
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Wrap pinwheels in foil and heat for 8–10 minutes until warmed through. Keeps them crisp.
- Microwave: Place one or two on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 20–30 seconds. Easy, but may soften the crust.
Tip: Reheat in small batches to avoid drying them out. Want more breakfast ideas? Don’t miss our Lemon Garlic Scallops for a fancy twist.
Freezing Instructions for Long-Term Meal Prep
Sausage pinwheels freeze like a dream. To freeze:
- Let them cool completely.
- Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash-freeze for 1 hour.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, no need to thaw—just bake at 350°F for 15–18 minutes.
Ideal Timing for Make-Ahead Batches
You can assemble and roll the pinwheels a day ahead and store the log (uncut) in the fridge. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to bake, slice and place on your sheet pan.
This make-ahead method is ideal for busy mornings, holiday brunches, or prep-ahead meal plans. Looking for a sweet pairing? Try Brown Butter Maple Blondies for dessert.
Serving Ideas: Making the Most of These Biscuit Pinwheels
Great Dips and Sauces That Pair Perfectly
While sausage pinwheels shine on their own, dips can elevate the experience. Here are a few top picks:
| Dip | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Jalapeño Ranch | Spicy and creamy |
| Honey Mustard | Sweet and tangy |
| Maple Syrup | Southern-inspired sweetness |
| Zippy Pineapple Dip | Sweet with a bite |
These dips turn your pinwheels from a quick snack into a share-worthy party platter.
What to Serve Alongside (Eggs, Fruit, Grits, etc.)
These pinwheels pair beautifully with:
- Scrambled or fried eggs
- Cheesy grits or hashbrowns
- Fresh fruit skewers
- A simple side salad for brunch
- Cinnamon rolls or muffins
Check out Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese if you’re planning a full comfort-food spread.
How to Style Them for Parties, Holidays, and Potlucks
Presentation matters, especially during the holidays or when entertaining. Here are some quick styling tips:
- Arrange on a wooden board with fresh herbs and dips in ramekins
- Stack in a tiered serving tray with toothpicks for easy grabbing
- Serve in mini parchment cones for portable party snacks
- Garnish with chives or cheese shavings for extra flair
Don’t miss our Stuffed Winter Squash Recipes for another show-stopping centerpiece idea.
Variations & Customizations to Try
Sweet & Savory Combos: Cheese, Honey, or Jelly?
It’s easy to personalize sausage pinwheels by adding layers of flavor before rolling:
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for a creamy melt
- Honey or maple drizzle for a sweet-savory balance
- Fruit preserves (like raspberry or fig) for a unique twist—perfect for brunch
These flavor twists are simple yet impactful. One of our readers loved the combo of hot sausage with a swipe of raspberry jelly.
Vegetarian Versions with Plant-Based Sausage
Going meatless? Try vegetarian sausage crumbles from brands like Beyond Meat or Impossible. They spread easily and cook just as well. Add a sprinkle of cheese or caramelized onions to enhance the flavor.
Make sure to season lightly—plant-based meats can be milder in taste. Bake times remain the same.
Mini Pinwheels for Kids or Appetizer Platters
For kid-friendly or cocktail party portions, cut the dough log into smaller slices—closer to ½-inch thick. These mini pinwheels cook faster (12–14 minutes) and are ideal for little hands or party skewers.
Pro Tip: Serve with dipping cups of ranch or ketchup for picky eaters.
Regional Twists: Southern, Tex-Mex, and More
Customize with flavors that reflect your region or taste:
- Southern-style: add pimento cheese or spicy mustard
- Tex-Mex: add taco seasoning and shredded pepper jack
- Italian-style: sprinkle in oregano, garlic powder, and a bit of mozzarella
Explore more bold ideas like Crockpot Salsa Chicken for Tex-Mex inspiration.
FAQ: Sausage Pinwheels in Biscuit Dough
Can I cook the sausage before rolling it into the dough?
No, the sausage should be raw when spread onto the biscuit dough. It will cook completely while baking. Pre-cooking the sausage can make the final result greasy or overly dry. Just be sure to use a fresh, high-quality breakfast sausage and spread it thinly and evenly across the dough.
Do they taste good at room temperature?
Yes, they do! While sausage pinwheels are amazing fresh out of the oven, they also hold up well at room temp, making them perfect for parties, potlucks, or brunch tables. You can keep them out safely for up to two hours. After that, store any leftovers in the fridge.
Can I make them a day ahead?
Absolutely. You can prepare the log a day in advance, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, slice and bake. Alternatively, bake them fully the day before and reheat the next morning. Both methods work well and save you time.
What type of sausage works best?
Any raw breakfast sausage will work—pork, turkey, or plant-based options. For maximum flavor, go with a seasoned sausage like Jimmy Dean Hot or Tennessee Pride. Want less spice? Stick to a mild version. Avoid pre-cooked sausage links or patties, as they won’t integrate well with the dough.
Can I add cheese or other ingredients?
Yes! Shredded cheddar, pepper jack, diced jalapeños, chopped onions, or a thin layer of fruit preserves can take your pinwheels up a notch. Just don’t overload the dough—too much filling can cause the pinwheels to unroll or bake unevenly. Less is more for clean, easy spirals.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Pinwheel Recipe
Sausage pinwheels in biscuit dough offer that rare combination of simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re feeding a sleepy family on a weekday morning or prepping for a festive brunch, this two-ingredient recipe delivers every time. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and wildly satisfying.
Once you’ve tried them, you’ll likely never let your fridge run out of biscuits or sausage again. Ready to whip up a batch? You’ll thank yourself later.
Don’t miss our Chex Party Mix if you’re planning a complete appetizer spread—savory and addictive!
PrintSausage Pinwheels in Biscuit Dough
These Sausage Pinwheels in Biscuit Dough are the ultimate two-ingredient savory treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, parties, or meal prep. Flaky biscuits are filled with flavorful sausage, rolled, sliced, and baked into golden spirals everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 20-23 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 pinwheels
- Category: Breakfast, Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 (16.3 oz) can refrigerated biscuits
- 1 lb raw breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375ºF.
- Separate each biscuit into two layers to make 16 total rounds.
- Place biscuit halves on parchment paper, 4 across and 4 down, edges touching.
- Use a rolling pin to flatten the dough into a rectangle. Add flour if needed to prevent sticking.
- Spread the raw sausage evenly across the surface of the dough.
- Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
- Slice into 1-inch thick pinwheels using a serrated knife.
- Place slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Notes
- Do not cook the sausage before spreading—it cooks during baking.
- Use a serrated knife to cut the dough cleanly.
- Optional: Add shredded cheddar, green chiles, or a swipe of jelly for extra flavor.
- You can freeze pinwheels before or after baking for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in oven at 350ºF wrapped in foil, or microwave with a damp paper towel.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
