SAUSAGE PANCILLOS

Sausage Pancillos: A Savory Twist on Classic Pastry

When you think of savory pastries, images of flaky, buttery crusts filled with delicious, well-seasoned fillings likely come to mind. Sausage pancillos are the perfect embodiment of this savory treat, offering a warm, satisfying bite with a burst of flavor in every mouthful. This recipe combines the rich, savory taste of sausage with the light, crisp texture of a pastry dough, making it an irresistible snack or appetizer. Whether you’re preparing for a family brunch, a game day gathering, or simply craving a savory treat, sausage pancillos are sure to hit the spot.

In this article, we’ll explore what makes sausage pancillos so special, provide a simple recipe to make them at home, and share tips to help you perfect this dish every time.

What are Sausage Pancillos?

Sausage pancillos are small, bite-sized pastries typically filled with ground sausage, herbs, and spices. They are similar to other savory pastries like empanadas or sausage rolls, but with a distinct twist. The word “pancillo” comes from the Spanish word for “bread roll,” and these savory pockets of dough are reminiscent of a cozy, stuffed pastry that’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for any occasion.

These treats are a wonderful way to showcase sausage as the star ingredient, enhanced by aromatic seasonings and wrapped in a light, flaky dough. The filling can be adjusted to your tastes, with options like cheese, onions, or even peppers. Sausage pancillos are versatile enough to be served as appetizers, snacks, or even a main dish when paired with a salad or dipping sauce.

Why You’ll Love Sausage Pancillos

1. Deliciously Savory: The combination of sausage, garlic, and herbs creates a mouthwatering filling that’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Each bite is packed with the comforting, savory goodness of sausage.
2. Versatile: While sausage is the main ingredient, the beauty of sausage pancillos lies in their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different fillings like adding cheese, vegetables, or even a little spicy mustard to give them a personal touch.
3. Perfect for Entertaining: These little pastries are ideal for parties, potlucks, or gatherings where finger foods are preferred. They’re easy to pick up and eat, and their savory flavors will keep guests coming back for more.
4. Easy to Make: Despite their elegant look, sausage pancillos are surprisingly easy to make. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have these delectable treats ready in no time.
5. Customizable: You can switch up the dough for a variety of options—use store-bought puff pastry for a quicker, flakier result or make your own dough for a homemade touch. You can also add your favorite seasonings and fillings.

Ingredients for Sausage Pancillos

Here’s a simple list of ingredients for the basic sausage pancillos recipe. Feel free to get creative with your fillings and seasonings as you see fit.

For the Pastry Dough (if making from scratch):

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1/4 cup cold water (or more as needed)
For the Sausage Filling:
1 lb ground sausage (pork or chicken, depending on preference)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional; cheddar or mozzarella work well)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Sausage Pancillos
Making sausage pancillos is easier than it sounds! Whether you’re using store-bought pastry or making your own dough, the process is simple and straightforward.

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