If you are hunting for a cozy, crowd-pleasing recipe that comes together quickly but tastes like it took hours, look no further than this Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole Recipe. It’s the perfect medley of flaky crescent rolls, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheddar cheese baked into one irresistible dish. This casserole feels like a warm hug on a plate, delivering breakfast comfort that’s great for family mornings, brunch gatherings, or anytime you want an easy yet impressive meal. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple you’ll find yourself making again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a crucial role in making this casserole burst with flavor and texture. From the buttery crescent rolls forming a golden crust to the savory sausage and fluffy eggs that give body to the dish, everything works in harmony for a balanced meal filled with hearty goodness.
- Crescent rolls (1 can, 8 oz): Acts as a flaky, buttery crust that holds all the savory ingredients together perfectly.
- Breakfast sausage (1/2 lb): Provides a flavorful, meaty base that adds richness and seasoning.
- Large eggs (6): Bind the casserole and create a light, fluffy texture throughout.
- Milk (1 cup): Adds creaminess and helps the eggs cook up tender.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts on top for that glorious gooey, sharp cheese finish everyone loves.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors and brings balance.
- Diced onions (1/2 cup, optional): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed with the sausage.
- Diced bell peppers (1/2 cup, optional): Brings a burst of color and a mild crunch for freshness.
How to Make Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Sausage
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your breakfast sausage until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked through. Be sure to crumble it as it cooks so the sausage pieces will distribute evenly around the casserole. If you’re using onions and bell peppers, toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they soften and build that inviting aroma. Drain off any excess grease to keep the casserole from getting too oily.
Step 2: Create the Crescent Roll Base
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and unroll the crescent rolls directly into the pan. Press all the seams tightly together with your fingers so they form one solid, cohesive layer. This layer will bake into a beautiful golden crust that’s buttery and flaky, providing the perfect foundation for the layers to come.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Base
In a medium bowl, whisk together your eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until everything is smooth and fully combined. This mixture will soak into the crescent roll base and work with the other fillings to create that classic breakfast casserole texture that’s light and custardy, yet comforting and rich.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Evenly spread the cooked sausage (and veggies if using) over the crescent roll crust. Pour the egg mixture right on top, making sure it covers everything so each bite is packed with flavor. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the entire top to create that irresistible melty layer we all crave.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your assembled casserole into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set firmly and the top turns a lovely golden brown with bubbling cheese. Allow it to cool just a bit before slicing; this rest lets it hold together beautifully for easy serving.
How to Serve Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a bright pop of color and fresh notes that cut through the richness wonderfully. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa on the side for an extra flavor pop that makes each bite even more special.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salad to balance the savory richness and add a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside crispy hash browns or a green leafy salad if you want to round out the meal with more textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try assembling this casserole in individual ramekins or muffin tins for portable, party-friendly servings. It also makes a fantastic brunch centerpiece when served on a large platter, allowing guests to help themselves to hearty slices alongside other breakfast favorites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
Freezing
This Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole Recipe also freezes beautifully. Simply bake as directed, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with foil and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly again. For quicker options, microwave slices on medium power in 30-second increments, though the oven method keeps the crust crisp and cheese melty just like fresh out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap breakfast sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a spicy chorizo to customize the flavor profile to your liking. Just cook thoroughly before assembling.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the sausage and add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to keep it hearty and delicious. Adding a plant-based sausage alternative works great too.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning, allowing a few extra minutes on the baking time if going straight from the fridge.
What cheese works best if I don’t like cheddar?
Cheddar is great for its sharpness and melty texture, but you can substitute mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda for a different twist. Just pick a cheese that melts well.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe relies on crescent rolls which typically contain gluten. However, if you find gluten-free crescent dough at your grocery store, you can use that as a substitute and enjoy a gluten-free version!
Final Thoughts
This Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a true winner for any brunch or breakfast occasion, combining ease, flavor, and comforting textures in one satisfying dish. It’s always a joy to serve, and even better when you share it with family and friends who ask for seconds. Go ahead and give it a try — your mornings (and taste buds) will thank you!
Print
Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish perfect for a family breakfast or brunch. Featuring a flaky crescent roll crust layered with savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s an easy-to-make casserole that combines classic breakfast flavors in one satisfying bake. Optional sautéed onions and bell peppers add a hint of sweetness and texture, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for any morning occasion.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 can (8 oz) crescent rolls
Sausage Mixture
- 1/2 lb breakfast sausage (or any sausage of your choice)
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Cook Sausage and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it is browned and cooked through, breaking it apart into small pieces. If using, add the diced onions and bell peppers in the last few minutes and sauté until softened. Drain excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Prepare Crescent Roll Base: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Roll out the crescent rolls onto the bottom, pressing the seams together so they form one solid crust layer.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy to ensure a light texture.
- Assemble Casserole: Evenly spread the cooked sausage (and vegetables if used) over the crescent roll crust. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage layer. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top to cover the surface.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is set—a slight jiggle is okay—and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for 5-10 minutes, which helps it set further and makes slicing easier. Serve warm for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Notes
- You can substitute the breakfast sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based alternative.
- For a spicier casserole, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes with the vegetables.
- Make sure to press the crescent roll seams tightly to prevent leakage of the egg mixture during baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Optional vegetables add flavor and nutrition but can be omitted for a simpler dish.
