Baked sausage and cheese mini wontons are the ultimate appetizer or snack, combining savory sausage, gooey cheese, and crispy wonton wrappers. These bite-sized treats are quick to prepare, versatile, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for parties, game days, or casual snacking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Cheesy: A crunchy wonton shell filled with creamy, cheesy sausage goodness.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal ingredients for a quick appetizer.
- Customizable: Add your favorite spices, cheeses, or sauces to make them your own.
- Baked, Not Fried: Healthier and less messy, yet just as delicious.
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound ground sausage (Italian, breakfast, or spicy sausage)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend of your choice)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 24 wonton wrappers
- Cooking spray or olive oil
- Optional: Sweet chili sauce, ranch, or marinara for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or olive oil.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Wontons
- Place a wonton wrapper into each cup of the prepared mini muffin tin, pressing gently to form a cup shape.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the sausage and cheese mixture into each wonton wrapper.
Step 5: Bake
- Lightly spray the tops of the wontons with cooking spray or brush with olive oil to help them crisp up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the wonton wrappers are golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the wontons from the oven and let them cool slightly in the muffin tin.
- Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce, ranch, or marinara.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the wontons to prevent spillage.
- Work Quickly with Wrappers: Wonton wrappers can dry out quickly, so keep them covered with a damp cloth while assembling.
- Customize the Filling: Add diced jalapeños, chopped bell peppers, or your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
- Use a Mini Muffin Tin: This helps the wontons hold their shape during baking.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Use hot sausage and add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Cheesy Explosion: Mix in mozzarella, Parmesan, or pepper jack cheese for a flavor twist.
- Asian-Inspired: Add a splash of soy sauce and chopped water chestnuts for an Asian-style filling.
Serving Suggestions
- As an Appetizer: Perfect for parties, game days, or potlucks.
- As a Snack: Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces for a satisfying treat.
- On a Platter: Pair with fresh veggies, chips, and other finger foods for a complete appetizer spread.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of crispy wonton wrappers, savory sausage, and melty cheese creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Baking the wontons keeps them light while still achieving a golden, crunchy exterior. This recipe is simple to prepare yet delivers big on taste, making it a go-to for any occasion.
Conclusion
Baked sausage and cheese mini wontons are a must-try for anyone who loves quick, easy, and flavorful appetizers. With their crispy exterior and cheesy, savory filling, they’re guaranteed to impress guests and satisfy cravings. Try this recipe today and watch these bite-sized delights disappear from the table!