Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Breakfast Sausage Rolls?
They are a hearty breakfast dish consisting of pork sausage, onions, mushrooms, herbs, and mozzarella cheese rolled inside bread dough and baked until golden.
Can I use homemade dough for this recipe?
Yes, you can use either thawed frozen bread dough or your favorite homemade bread dough prepared in a bread machine or by hand.
What kind of pork sausage should I use?
You can use hot or mild pork sausage, or even a combination of both depending on your preference for spice.
How do I prepare the sausage filling?
Cook the pork sausage in a skillet until browned, then add chopped onions and diced mushrooms until tender. Drain the excess fat before mixing with other ingredients.
Do I need to cook the vegetables before adding them to the dough?
Yes, the onions and mushrooms should be sautéed with the sausage to ensure they are tender and to remove excess moisture.
What herbs are used in the filling?
The recipe calls for a blend of dried basil, rosemary, and parsley, along with garlic powder.
How many eggs are required for this recipe?
You will need a total of 3 eggs: 2 are beaten and mixed into the sausage filling, and 1 is used for the egg wash on top.
What type of cheese is best for these rolls?
Shredded mozzarella cheese is recommended for its melting properties and mild flavor that complements the sausage.
Can I use fresh mushrooms?
Yes, you can use 1 1/2 cups of diced fresh mushrooms or canned mushrooms if you prefer.
What size should I roll out the dough?
Each loaf of dough should be rolled on a floured surface to approximately 16x12 inches.
How do I assemble the sausage rolls?
Spread the sausage mixture over the dough leaving a 1-inch border, then roll it tightly like a jelly-roll and seal the edges.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Ensure you leave a 1-inch border when spreading the filling and seal the edges of the dough thoroughly after rolling.
What is the purpose of the egg wash?
Brushing the beaten egg over the top of the dough before baking creates a beautiful golden-brown crust.
At what temperature should I bake the sausage rolls?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
How long does it take to bake?
Bake for 25 minutes, then check for browning. You may need an additional 5-10 minutes until they are golden brown.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance or even assemble the rolls and keep them refrigerated for a short time before baking.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze the baked sausage rolls?
Yes, these rolls freeze well. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat the rolls?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the crust's texture, or use a microwave for a quicker option.
Is it necessary to let the dough rise?
If using frozen dough, let it thaw and rise until it doubles in size. Homemade dough should also be allowed to rise properly before rolling.
Can I substitute the mozzarella with another cheese?
Yes, cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack would also work well in this recipe.
What if I don't have garlic powder?
You can substitute with finely minced fresh garlic, sautéing it briefly with the onions.
Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Bell peppers or spinach would make great additions to the sausage and mushroom mixture.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe is designed for 2 loaves of dough, typically serving 8-10 people depending on slice size, though the base data suggests 2 large portions.
Should the sausage mixture be hot when I put it on the dough?
No, allow the sausage mixture to cool slightly before mixing in the cheese and eggs and spreading it on the dough to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
Can I use turkey sausage instead?
Yes, turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative to pork sausage for this recipe.
Why did my rolls burst open in the oven?
This usually happens if the seam wasn't sealed tightly enough or if there was too much steam trapped inside. Ensure a tight seal and seam-side down placement.
What should I serve with these?
They pair well with fresh fruit, a light salad, or even a side of dipping sauce like marinara or honey mustard.
How do I know the dough is cooked through?
The rolls should be a deep golden brown and sound slightly hollow when tapped on the top.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
The recipe specifically calls for dried herbs (basil, rosemary, parsley), which provide a concentrated flavor that works well with the baking process.