SAUSAGE PANCILLOS

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough (if making from scratch)
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You can also do this in a food processor for faster results.
Add Water: Slowly add the cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to add too much water; you want the dough to be slightly crumbly but able to form a ball.
Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will make it easier to roll out and help it maintain its shape when baked.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Filling
Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat, then set the sausage aside.
Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Combine the Filling: Add the cooked sausage back into the pan with the onions and garlic. Season with thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. If you’re using cheese, stir it in now and cook for another 2-3 minutes until melted. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Sausage Pancillos
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll Out the Dough: Take the chilled dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) or a glass to cut circles from the dough.
Fill the Pastry: Place a spoonful of the sausage filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as you want the edges to seal properly.
Seal and Shape: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon or triangle shape. Use a fork to press down the edges to seal them tightly.
Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pancillos with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish once baked.
Bake the Pancillos: Place the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If you want an extra crisp crust, you can turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, but be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Allow the sausage pancillos to cool for a few minutes before serving. These savory treats are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven. Garnish with some fresh herbs or a drizzle of your favorite dipping sauce, such as spicy mustard or aioli, for an added touch.

Tips for the Perfect Sausage Pancillos
Use a Good Quality Sausage: The filling is the star of this dish, so make sure to use a high-quality ground sausage. You can even experiment with different types, like spicy Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or a milder breakfast sausage.
Add Veggies: For added flavor and texture, you can include finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms in the filling. Just be sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture.
Store-Bought Pastry: If you’re in a rush, you can use store-bought puff pastry or pie dough to save time. Just thaw the dough according to package instructions and follow the same assembly steps.
Make Them Mini: For a fun party snack, you can make mini sausage pancillos by cutting smaller circles of dough. These bite-sized treats are perfect for serving at gatherings.
Freezing Option: If you want to make these ahead of time, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked pancillos. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
Sausage pancillos are the perfect combination of crispy pastry and savory filling, making them a fantastic option for any occasion. With their irresistible flavor and satisfying texture, these savory pastries will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or light main dish, sausage pancillos are sure to impress guests and satisfy your cravings for something hearty and delicious.

So, next time you’re looking for a tasty and easy-to-make savory pastry, give sausage pancillos a try! With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy!