As the sun sets and the kitchen fills with the rich aroma of savory herbs and sizzling sausage, you can’t help but feel a warm sense of comfort. That’s exactly what I experienced the first time I made Sicilian Sausage Rolls, or Tomasini, for my family. This dish transformed a simple weeknight dinner into something truly special, reminding me that homemade food can evoke the joy of travel through taste. With golden, flaky pizza dough wrapping around a creamy ricotta and Italian sausage filling, these rolls are not just a dish; they’re a delightful culinary experience ripe for customization.
Imagine wrapping your hands around one of these warm treats, the crispy exterior yielding to a hearty, herb-infused center. They’re perfect for cozy gatherings or even an impromptu movie night at home. Plus, the best part? You can whip them up in just 45 minutes! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or play around with your favorite fillings, these Sicilian Sausage Rolls will become a go-to favorite you can share with loved ones. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!
Why Love Sicilian Sausage Rolls?
Comforting Tradition: These Sicilian Sausage Rolls seamlessly blend classic Italian flavors into a warm, flaky delight that transports you to the streets of Sicily.
Quick Preparation: With just 45 minutes of cooking time, you can create a satisfying dish that will impress family and friends without a lengthy commitment.
Endless Customization: Tailor the filling to your taste by swapping in different meats, cheeses, or even veggies for a unique twist.
Crowd Pleaser: Serve them at your next gathering or cozy movie night, and watch as everyone reaches for seconds, thanks to their irresistible aroma and flavor.
Satisfying Texture: Enjoy that perfect balance of crispy and chewy, creating a delightful bite every time!
Sicilian Sausage Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• Pizza Dough – Use store-bought for convenience, or make your own for that authentic touch!
For the Filling
• Italian Sausage – The star of the show; substitute with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Ricotta Cheese – Provides creamy richness; cottage cheese works as a lower-fat substitute.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds savory depth; Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper flavor.
• Herbs (e.g., Oregano, Fennel, Garlic) – Fresh herbs bring vibrant aroma and flavor; dried herbs are a great backup if fresh aren’t available.
Enjoy these Sicilian Sausage Rolls straight from the oven or let your imagination run wild with filling variations!
How to Make Sicilian Sausage Rolls
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown color and flaky texture as they bake!
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Prepare filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the Italian sausage, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and your choice of fresh herbs until everything is well combined. Aim for a cohesive mixture!
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Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. This helps create a sturdy yet tender shell for your flavor-rich filling!
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Spread the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about an inch margin around the edges. This ensures a perfect seal and prevents any filling from leaking during baking.
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Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, creating a log shape, and slice it into 8 evenly sized pieces. This will help each roll bake consistently and evenly!
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Place on a baking sheet, seam side down, and brush the tops with olive oil. Sprinkle some extra herbs for an enticing aroma while baking!
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Bake for 25 minutes or until the rolls are golden and puffed up. Keep an eye on them and wait for that beautiful color to develop!
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Cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to settle and making them easier to enjoy without burning your mouth!
Optional: Serve with marinara sauce for dipping for an extra flavor kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Sicilian Sausage Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the filling (Italian sausage, ricotta, Parmesan, and herbs) up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. The assembled rolls can be stored uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours or frozen for longer storage—just ensure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen rolls directly in the oven, allowing an extra few minutes to the baking time for perfectly golden results. This way, you’ll enjoy authentic Sicilian flavors with minimal effort on the day you serve them!
What to Serve with Sicilian Sausage Rolls?
Transform your Sicilian Sausage Rolls into a complete meal with these delightful side dishes that perfectly compliment their savory goodness.
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Marinara Sauce: This classic dipping sauce adds a tangy twist that enhances the rich flavors of the sausage rolls, making each bite delightful.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the flaky rolls, keeping the meal light and vibrant.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread offers a deliciously indulgent partner, creating a symphony of flavors that every Italian food lover will appreciate.
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Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring earthy flavors and textures to the table, making your meal colorful and nutritious.
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Cheesy Risotto: Creamy risotto enriched with cheese complements the rolls beautifully, adding a luxurious element to your dining experience that feels wonderfully comforting.
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Italian Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio pairs delightfully, enhancing the overall flavor experience while adding a touch of sophistication to your meal.
Each of these suggestions aims to create a truly memorable dining experience, weaving together warm textures and aromas around the centerpiece: your homemade Sicilian Sausage Rolls.
Storage Tips for Sicilian Sausage Rolls
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Room Temperature: Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours if you’re enjoying them fresh.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or microwave to restore that delightful texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked Sicilian Sausage Rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through and crisp.
Sicilian Sausage Rolls Variations
There’s no limit to how you can personalize these delicious rolls!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap in sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, and feta cheese for a vibrant meat-free option.
A veggie twist can bring out fresh flavors and make these rolls suitable for everyone at the table. -
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra punch of heat.
Transforming the flavor can turn these rolls into a bold, exciting treat perfect for spice lovers! -
Cheesy Surprise: Experiment with a blend of mozzarella and ricotta for a melty, gooey filling.
The addition of mozzarella creates a delightful stretch and rich flavor that cheese lovers won’t resist! -
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh basil or parsley into the filling for an aromatic twist.
This added freshness enhances the flavors, giving the rolls a homey, garden-fresh feel that elevates each bite. -
Hearty Addition: Stir in cooked mushrooms or zucchini for texture and a nutritional boost.
These ingredients add earthy flavor while keeping the rolls hearty and satisfying for any hungry guest. -
Cultural Fusion: Try using chorizo instead of Italian sausage for a Spanish-inspired flair.
This twist introduces vibrant spices and a new dimension, making it a perfect conversation starter at gatherings. -
Nutty Flavor: Add chopped pistachios or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
A sprinkle of nuts can transform the texture and elevate the entire experience into something truly gourmet! -
Sweet Surprise: Mix in some caramelized onions or sun-dried tomatoes for a hint of sweetness.
These ingredients balance the savory and add a whole new layer of flavor that will surprise and delight your taste buds!
Expert Tips for Sicilian Sausage Rolls
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality sausage elevate the flavor of your Sicilian Sausage Rolls. Dried herbs can work, but fresh offers better aroma.
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Don’t Overstuff: Avoid the temptation to pack too much filling. Overstuffing can lead to bursting rolls during baking, which may waste all that delicious goodness!
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your ricotta and sausage come to room temperature for easier mixing and a better texture in the finished rolls.
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Seal Properly: Make sure the ends of your dough are sealed tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out while baking.
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Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different; keep an eye on your rolls to achieve that golden-brown finish without burning. Enjoy the exciting aroma as they bake!
Sicilian Sausage Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right pizza dough for my Sicilian Sausage Rolls?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using high-quality store-bought pizza dough, which saves time and ensures a consistent texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own for an authentic touch. Look for dough that’s soft and pliable without any dark spots or signs of expiration!
How should I store leftover Sicilian Sausage Rolls?
You can easily store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. For a quick warm-up, simply pop them in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, and they’ll be just as delightful as when they were freshly baked!
Can I freeze Sicilian Sausage Rolls?
Yes, freezing is a fantastic option! To freeze unbaked rolls, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can maintain their delicious quality for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just remove them from the freezer and bake directly at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, adding a few extra minutes for perfect results!
What if my filling is too wet?
If you find your filling is a bit too wet, no worries! To troubleshoot, you can add a small amount of bread crumbs or an extra tablespoon of grated cheese to absorb the moisture. This not only helps with the consistency but will also enhance the flavor of your Sicilian Sausage Rolls!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For those with dietary restrictions, these Sicilian Sausage Rolls can be easily adapted! Swap out Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, and for those avoiding dairy, you can use dairy-free ricotta or simply omit cheese altogether. Always double-check your ingredients for any allergies, and your loved ones can enjoy these tasty treats together!
Savor Sicilian Sausage Rolls: Your New Favorite Comfort Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the Italian sausage, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and fresh herbs until well combined.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about an inch margin around the edges.
- Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, creating a log shape, and slice it into 8 evenly sized pieces.
- Place on a baking sheet, seam side down, and brush the tops with olive oil. Sprinkle with extra herbs.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the rolls are golden and puffed up.
- Cool slightly before serving.