Sicilian Sausage Rolls

Sicilian Sausage Rolls are a savory and satisfying pastry made with tender homemade dough wrapped around a flavorful mixture of Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and sharp cheeses. Originating from Sicily, these rolls—also known as Tomasini—are traditionally baked until golden and crisp, offering a delicious taste of Southern Italian comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, savory flavor from a combination of sausage, cheese, and fresh herbs
• Perfect for entertaining—serve them as appetizers, party snacks, or light meals
• Make-ahead friendly for busy schedules and event planning
• Versatile filling that you can customize with different meats, cheeses, or vegetables
• Authentic Sicilian dish that brings rustic Italian tradition to your table

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough

• All-purpose flour
• Active dry yeast
• Lukewarm water
• Olive oil
• Salt

For the Filling

• Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
• Ricotta cheese
• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano
• Chopped parsley
• Black pepper
• Optional: chopped hard-boiled eggs or sautéed onions

For Assembly

• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough
   In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water, let sit until foamy, then mix into the flour with olive oil. Knead until smooth and elastic, then cover and let rise for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. Let cool slightly, then mix with ricotta, Parmesan, parsley, and black pepper in a large bowl.
3. Assemble the Rolls
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Spread the sausage mixture evenly, then roll tightly into a log. Slice into 2- to 3-inch pieces.
4. Bake
   Place rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and firm to the touch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10–12 rolls
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Rising Time: 1.5 hours
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2.5 hours

Variations

• Spicy version: Use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes to the filling
• Vegetarian: Replace sausage with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and onions
• Cheese lovers: Add shredded mozzarella or provolone to the filling for a gooier texture
• Mini rolls: Make smaller versions for party platters or appetizers
• Different dough: Use puff pastry for a flakier, lighter crust

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes, or until heated through
• Freezing: Freeze baked or unbaked rolls for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 5–10 extra minutes

FAQs

What are Sicilian sausage rolls made of?

They are made from a soft yeast dough filled with a savory mix of sausage, ricotta, and cheese, then baked until golden.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, you can use pizza dough or puff pastry for convenience, though homemade dough adds a more authentic flavor.

What kind of sausage is best?

Use sweet or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preference. Be sure to remove the casings before cooking.

Can these be made in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead and assemble the rolls right before baking.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

The tops should be golden brown and firm, and the filling should be hot and bubbling slightly.

Do I have to use ricotta?

Ricotta adds creaminess, but you can substitute with mascarpone, cottage cheese, or even a bechamel sauce.

What do you serve with sausage rolls?

They go great with marinara sauce for dipping, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Are these rolls spicy?

Only if you use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes—otherwise, they’re mild and flavorful.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast doughs, and make sure your sausage and cheeses are gluten-free.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Freeze cooled rolls in an airtight container, then reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

Sicilian Sausage Rolls are a savory, satisfying dish that brings the heart of Southern Italian cooking into your kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a casual get-together, or just a cozy meal, these rolls deliver bold flavor and comforting texture in every bite. Once you try them, they’ll become a go-to in your recipe rotation.

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