The Boudin King Cake is a bold twist on the traditional sweet king cake, transforming it into a savory delight. Made with flaky puff pastry, spiced boudin sausage, and melted cheddar cheese, this Louisiana-inspired dish is the perfect centerpiece for Mardi Gras celebrations or any gathering. Finished with a buttery Cajun seasoning glaze, this recipe is a true taste of Southern comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Savory Take on a Classic – A delicious alternative to the traditional sweet king cake.
- Easy to Make – Uses store-bought puff pastry for a quick and simple preparation.
- Perfect for Parties – A unique appetizer that will impress your guests.
- Flaky & Flavorful – Buttery, crisp layers of puff pastry paired with spiced boudin sausage.
- Customizable – Add different cheeses, spices, or even a dipping sauce to make it your own.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Puff pastry
- Cooked boudin sausage, crumbled
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Egg (for egg wash)
- Melted butter
- Cajun seasoning
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- Evenly spread the crumbled boudin sausage and shredded cheddar cheese over the pastry.
- Carefully roll the pastry into a log, then shape it into a ring, pinching the ends together.
- Transfer the ring to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the pastry with an egg wash to achieve a golden, crisp crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
- Remove from the oven and brush the top with melted butter.
- Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning for an extra burst of flavor before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8 slices
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version – Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce inside the filling.
- Different Cheeses – Try pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
- Garlic Butter Glaze – Mix minced garlic into the melted butter for extra richness.
- Andouille Addition – Swap boudin for andouille sausage for a smokier taste.
- Sweet & Savory Twist – Drizzle with honey or serve with a fruit chutney for contrast.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to crisp up the pastry.
- Freezing: Wrap the unbaked assembled king cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
What is a boudin king cake?
A boudin king cake is a savory version of the classic Mardi Gras treat, made with puff pastry, boudin sausage, and cheese instead of sweet dough and icing.
Can I use homemade boudin sausage?
Yes! If you have homemade boudin, simply remove the casing and crumble it before using.
Do I have to use puff pastry?
No, you can use crescent roll dough or pizza dough, but puff pastry provides the flakiest texture.
What dipping sauces go well with this?
Remoulade, spicy mustard, or a Cajun aioli pair wonderfully with this dish.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the ring and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours before baking.
What makes this a “king cake” if it’s savory?
The ring shape resembles a traditional king cake, making it a fun, savory spin on the classic.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach would be great additions.
How do I make it extra crispy?
Use a hot oven (375°F-400°F) and ensure the egg wash is evenly applied for the best golden crust.
Is this spicy?
Boudin sausage has a mild kick, but you can increase the heat with extra Cajun seasoning or hot sauce.
Can I serve this for breakfast?
Yes! Pair it with scrambled eggs and a side of fruit for a hearty Southern breakfast.
Conclusion
The Boudin King Cake is a flavorful and festive dish that brings a Cajun twist to Mardi Gras celebrations. With its flaky puff pastry, savory sausage filling, and bold spices, it’s an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer, party snack, or brunch centerpiece, this dish is sure to impress. Try it this Mardi Gras season and bring a taste of Louisiana tradition to your table!
