In the heart of the Midwest, where the fields stretch wide and the seasons change with a gentle rhythm, we find comfort in dishes that bring warmth to our tables and hearts. This Baked Sausage and Cheese Mini Wontons recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, inspired by the abundance of fresh produce and the rich flavors that define our regional cuisine. By incorporating chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, these wontons not only offer a burst of flavor but also a nod to the bountiful harvests that our land provides. It's a dish that bridges the gap between tradition and modern taste, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy evening at home.
These savory wontons pair beautifully with a crisp garden salad, perhaps with a tangy vinaigrette to complement the richness of the sausage and cheese. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup or a rustic vegetable stew. A glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea would round out the meal nicely, making for a delightful dining experience.
Baked Sausage and Cheese Mini Wontons with Spinach and Sun-Dried TomatoesServings: 24 wontons
Ingredients1/2 pound ground sausage
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup chopped fresh spinach
1/4 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes
Black pepper, to taste
24 wonton wrappers
Olive oil or melted butter, for brushing
DirectionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground sausage until fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
Transfer the cooked sausage to a large mixing bowl and let it cool slightly.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, and finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sausage. Season with black pepper to taste.
Mix the ingredients until well combined.
Place a teaspoon of the sausage mixture onto the center of each wonton wrapper.
Moisten the edges of the wonton wrapper with a little water, then fold it into a triangle, pressing the edges to seal.
Arrange the wontons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the tops of the wontons with olive oil or melted butter.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the wontons are golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Variations & TipsFor a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or crumbled tofu. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling. These wontons can also be steamed instead of baked for a softer texture.
