Canned crescent roll dough is incredibly versatile and convenient for crafting everything from quick desserts to crowd-pleasing, last-minute appetizers. One of our test kitchen’s favorite uses for this flaky, buttery dough is to create a delicious breakfast casserole with classic ingredients and a crispy crust.
While our crescent sausage rolls and croissant breakfast casserole still have a place at the table, this comforting casserole might be the best way to serve breakfast to a crowd. The flaky crescent rolls, cheesy eggs and sausage will surely please everyone. Plus, it’s make-ahead-friendly and ready in under 3o minutes.
You’ll love this breakfast casserole with crescent rolls because it’s filling and flavorful. It’s a meal you can enjoy any time of the day or week and it’s easy to customize!
Ingredients for Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole
- Pork sausage: Bulk pork sausage provides a rich, savory flavor and a satisfying protein element. Use breakfast sausage for a slightly sweeter casserole.
- Crescent rolls: The buttery rolls come in a tube with pre-cut perforations on the dough that let you easily tear it apart to make crescent rolls. You can find crescent rolls in the refrigerated section of your grocery store near the dairy products.
- Cheese: Shredded part-skim mozzarella melts beautifully to create a creamy, cheesy layer. Shredded cheese always melts better when you grate it yourself.
- Eggs: Eight large eggs might sound like a lot but they are the foundation of this hearty casserole.
- Milk: Lighter 2% milk adds just the right creaminess to the eggs without weighing down the filling.
Directions
Step 1: Cook the sausage
Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a large skillet, break the sausage into crumbles and cook it over medium heat, for six to eight minutes or until it’s no longer pink. Drain the sausage and discard the grease.
Step 2: Layer the casserole
Unroll crescent roll dough into a greased 13×9-inch baking dish and press to seal any seams and perforations. Sprinkle the sausage and cheese on the dough. Whisk eggs, milk, salt and pepper in a bowl and pour over the sausage and cheese.
Step 3: Bake the casserole
Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the casserole stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole Recipe Variations
- Go vegetarian: Substitute sausage with sauteed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach and mushrooms.
- Swap sausages: You can use any type of sausage, including turkey, chicken or plant-based sausage.
- Ham it up: Instead of sausage, use diced ham as your protein.
- Cheesy change: Use cheddar, Swiss or pepper jack cheese for different flavor profiles.
- Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or use spicy Italian sausage for a kick of heat.
How to Store Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat portions in a skillet for 5 to 10 minutes or in the oven at 350° for 15 to 20 minutes.
Can you freeze a crescent roll breakfast casserole?
Sausage and crescent roll breakfast casserole leftovers should not be frozen because the crescent roll crust will likely become soggy.
Can I make a crescent roll breakfast casserole ahead of time?
Cover and refrigerate the unbaked casserole for several hours or overnight. Let the casserole sit at room temperature as the oven heats and bake it as directed, increasing the time as necessary.
Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole Recipe Tips
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The sausage and crescent roll breakfast casserole is done when a knife inserted near the center comes out clean, with no traces of raw egg. If the top is nice and brown but the casserole is not done in the middle, cover the casserole loosely with foil and continue baking until it tests done.
Why is my crescent roll breakfast casserole soggy?
Several factors could contribute to this issue if your breakfast casserole turns out soggy. Some common reasons and solutions to help you achieve a perfectly baked breakfast casserole include excess moisture from ingredients. If you add vegetables, remember that they release water as they cook. To avoid this, saute the veggies to reduce their moisture content before adding them to the casserole. Also, ensure the meats are cooked and drained of excess fat before adding them to the casserole. Another reason might be overcrowding. Too many ingredients in the baking dish can prevent proper cooking and lead to excess moisture retention. Make sure to use a dish that’s appropriately sized for the recipe. Lastly,  not baking the casserole long enough can result in a soggy texture. Check that the eggs are fully set. To ensure a crispy crust, par-bake it for a few minutes before adding all the other ingredients.
What is good to serve with a crescent roll breakfast casserole?
A breakfast casserole is a hearty dish that pairs well with various sides to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Serve it aside a fresh fruit salad, crusty bread, blueberry muffins, roasted vegetables or salad.
