Start your day right with a truly effortless meal. This crescent roll breakfast casserole is your new go-to recipe for busy mornings and festive brunches alike. It combines flaky crescent rolls with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese for a comforting dish that everyone loves.
For many, breakfast casseroles are a must-have for holiday gatherings, offering a convenient and delicious option to feed a crowd. Learn more about why breakfast casseroles are a holiday favorite.
Prepare this simple casserole ahead of time and enjoy a stress-free breakfast.
Why You’ll Love This Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole
You will adore this crescent roll breakfast casserole for its sheer convenience and delicious flavor. It boasts incredibly quick prep time, making your mornings smoother. You can easily customize the ingredients to fit your family’s preferences. Enjoy a wonderfully fluffy texture paired with a rich, savory taste in every bite. This versatile dish is truly perfect for holiday gatherings or any bustling morning.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delightful breakfast.
- 1 (8-ounce) package refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups milk (I use 2%)
- 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt (or 1/2 teaspoon table salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 – 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (you can substitute with cheddar or mozzarella if preferred)
Notes & Substitutions
Feel free to customize your breakfast casserole. Swap the breakfast sausage for cooked crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even a spicy sage sausage. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyere, or a sharp white cheddar for varied flavor. Boost the nutrition by adding finely diced bell peppers, onions, or sautéed mushrooms to the sausage mixture. A dash of hot sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs like chives can also elevate the taste.
Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen tools for this recipe.
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
Instructions
Creating this delicious crescent roll breakfast casserole is straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect result every time.
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Thoroughly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pre-bake the Crescent Rolls: Unroll the package of crescent dough. Carefully place the dough in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Press the seams together firmly to create a solid crust. If there’s excess dough, gently press the edges up the sides of the dish. Bake the crescent dough for 5 minutes. This step helps create a flaky, golden base.
- Cook the Sausage: While the crescent rolls pre-bake, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage to the skillet. Cook and crumble the sausage with a spatula until it is completely browned and cooked through. Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate lined with paper towels. This absorbs any extra grease, ensuring your casserole isn’t oily.
- Whisk the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the 8 large eggs until they are well combined. Pour in the milk, Kosher salt, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Whisk all these ingredients together until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole: Once the crescent roll base is slightly pre-baked, remove it from the oven. Sprinkle the cooked and drained sausage evenly over the crescent dough. Next, spread the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese uniformly over the sausage layer. Finally, pour the whisked egg mixture carefully over the entire casserole, ensuring it covers all the ingredients.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish back into the preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The casserole is done when the eggs are fully set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should appear golden brown and lightly puffed.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the crescent roll breakfast casserole from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the casserole to set further, making it easier to cut into neat portions.
Pro Tips
Prevent the crescent roll crust from burning by keeping an eye on it during the pre-bake; it should be lightly golden, not dark. Always ensure your breakfast sausage is thoroughly drained of grease. Excess grease can make your casserole soggy. Properly seal all crescent roll seams before baking. This prevents the egg mixture from seeping underneath and getting stuck. Always grease your baking dish well; this makes cleanup much easier. Test for doneness using a knife or toothpick inserted into the center. If it comes out clean, your casserole is ready.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
Serve this delightful crescent roll breakfast casserole warm with your favorite toppings. Consider a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh chives, or a drizzle of hot sauce. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, warm individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or heat in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. An air fryer also works wonders for quick reheating, giving the crescent rolls a nice crispness.
For creative serving suggestions, pair it with a fresh fruit salad or a side of crispy hash browns. You can also make this easy breakfast casserole ahead of time; assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Simply bake it in the morning, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time.
Nutrition
This crescent roll breakfast casserole provides a satisfying start to your day. It delivers protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to fuel your morning.
| Serving Size | 1/12 casserole |
|---|---|
| Prep time | 15 minutes |
| Cook time | 45 minutes |
Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
FAQ
How do I tell if the casserole is cooked completely?
Insert a knife or toothpick into the center of the casserole. If it comes out clean, your crescent roll breakfast casserole is fully cooked. The eggs will appear set and not jiggly.
For food safety, the USDA provides detailed guidelines on safe minimum internal temperatures for various foods to ensure they are fully cooked.
How long can the casserole sit at room temperature?
For food safety, avoid leaving the casserole at room temperature for more than two hours. Refrigerate any leftovers promptly after cooling.
Can you freeze this crescent roll breakfast casserole?
Yes, you can freeze individual slices or the entire casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; it keeps for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What’s the best way to make this breakfast casserole ahead?
Assemble the casserole completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it overnight. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when you cook it in the morning.
Conclusion
This easy crescent roll breakfast casserole truly makes breakfast simple and delicious. Its flaky crust, savory fillings, and cheesy goodness create a dish that satisfies every time. Whether you need a quick weekday meal or a crowd-pleasing brunch centerpiece, this versatile recipe fits perfectly. Go ahead, give this amazing casserole a try, and share your delicious creations with us!