Sausage and Cheese Mini Wonton Appetizers

Ingredients:

• For the Filling:
  • 1 lb (16 oz) breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, or a blend of both)
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
• For the Wontons:
  • 1 package of square wonton wrappers (about 50 wrappers)
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray (for brushing or spraying the wrappers for baking or frying)
• For Frying or Baking:
  • Frying: Vegetable oil (for frying)
  • Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage Filling:

1. Cook the Sausage:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Drain any excess grease, and return the sausage to the pan.
2. Mix the Filling:
   • Add the cream cheese to the cooked sausage and stir until it melts and combines with the sausage.
   • Stir in the shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), and black pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the filling is creamy and well combined.
   • Remove from heat and set aside to cool for a few minutes.

2. Assemble the Wonton Appetizers:

1. Prepare the Wonton Wrappers:
   • Lay the wonton wrappers out on a clean surface. Use a spoon to place about 1 teaspoon of the sausage and cheese filling in the center of each wonton wrapper.
2. Fold the Wontons:
   • Lightly wet the edges of the wonton wrapper with a little water (use a finger or a pastry brush). This will help seal the wonton.
   • Fold the wonton into a triangle (or you can fold them into a rectangle if you prefer).
   • Press the edges together firmly to seal. You can also shape them into little envelopes or half-moon shapes, depending on the wrapper style.

3. Cooking Options:

Option 1: Baking (Healthier Option)

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the Wontons: Place the assembled wontons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
3. Brush with Oil: Lightly brush or spray the wontons with olive oil or cooking spray to help them crisp up.
4. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the wontons halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
5. Serve: Let them cool slightly before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley or chives for extra color and flavor.

Option 2: Frying (Crispier Option)

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of wonton wrapper into the oil—if it sizzles right away, it’s ready.
2. Fry the Wontons: Working in batches, carefully place the filled wontons into the hot oil, frying them for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through for even frying.
3. Drain the Wontons: Use a slotted spoon to remove the wontons from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Serve: Let the wontons cool for a minute, then serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve the sausage and cheese mini wontons as appetizers or snacks with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or spicy mustard.
• For extra flavor, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives.