Had this out for a party and it was the star of the show!

Baked Sausage and Pepper Jack Wontons are a delightful twist on classic wontons, blending the spice of pepper jack cheese with the savory goodness of sausage. These crispy, golden treats are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in. The idea for this recipe came to me after a particularly hectic day at the office when I craved something quick, comforting, and a little spicy. These wontons are baked instead of fried, which makes them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

These wontons pair wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Additionally, you can serve them with a variety of dips like a tangy marinara sauce, creamy ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a bit of extra kick. If you're hosting friends, a side of mixed nuts or a light fruit platter complements the spicy, cheesy goodness perfectly.

Servings: 4

1/2 pound ground sausage
1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
24 wonton wrappers
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten (for sealing wontons)
Cooking spray

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a medium skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess grease and let it cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, shredded Pepper Jack cheese, chopped green onions, red bell pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

Place a wonton wrapper on a clean surface and spoon about 1 tablespoon of the sausage mixture into the center.

Brush the edges of the wrapper lightly with beaten egg. Bring the corners together and press to seal tightly, forming a little pouch.

Place the wrapped wontons on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the wontons are golden brown and crispy.

Allow the wontons to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

For a different flavor profile, you can substitute the sausage with ground chicken or turkey. Add a touch of heat by mixing in chopped jalapeños. If you're a fan of veggies, toss in some finely chopped spinach or mushrooms into the filling. The wontons also freeze well before baking, making them a great make-ahead appetizer—just bake from frozen for an additional 3-5 minutes.