Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole
Table of Contents
There’s something truly magical about waking up to the aroma of a warm breakfast casserole wafting through the house. It takes me back to those cherished mornings at Grandma’s, where every bite was infused with love and a touch of nostalgia. Today, I’m sharing a recipe for Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole that embodies the same comforting magic, perfect for bringing family together around the breakfast table.
Imagine the buttery flakiness of crescent rolls layered with creamy cheese, savory ham, and a gentle kick from jalapeños—all nestled beneath a blanket of fluffy eggs. This casserole is not just a dish; it’s a memory in the making. With each mouthful, you’ll be reminded of cozy kitchen moments and the joy of simple, home-cooked meals. It’s a tribute to easy mornings, where you can nourish your loved ones with warmth and affection. Whether you’re bustling through a busy weekday breakfast or savoring a slow weekend brunch, this casserole promises to become a beloved staple in your home.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
This Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in harmony. The combination of fluffy eggs and creamy cheese creates a luscious base, while the crescent rolls add a delightful crunch. Each element—from the savory ham to the subtle spice of jalapeños—works in concert to delight your taste buds. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile: you can customize the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes, making it a perfect go-to for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a regular Saturday morning, this casserole brings joy and satisfaction to every meal.
One of the great things about this casserole is its adaptability. You can easily swap out the ham for bacon or sausage if you prefer, or even go vegetarian by substituting with sautéed mushrooms and spinach. The jalapeños can be adjusted to your spice preference, or omitted if you’re cooking for little ones or spice-averse guests. By making these small adjustments, you can tailor the dish to fit any dietary need or flavor profile, ensuring it’s a hit every time you serve it.
This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd. When you have guests staying over or are hosting a brunch, the ease of preparing this dish makes it a stress-free experience. It can even be assembled the night before, allowing the flavors to meld overnight, and then baked fresh in the morning. This not only saves time but also enhances the taste, making it an ideal choice for entertaining.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To make this comforting breakfast dish a breeze, you’ll need just a few kitchen essentials. A 9×13 casserole dish is perfect for layering the ingredients and ensuring even cooking. A sturdy whisk will help you blend the eggs and milk effortlessly, while a large mixing bowl will accommodate all your cheesy, savory fillings. A sharp knife and cutting board are must-haves for prepping the ham and jalapeños. Simple tools, but they make all the difference in creating a dish that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to eat.
If you’re someone who likes to prepare ahead, a pastry brush can be handy for buttering your dish or even brushing a little extra butter over the crescent rolls before baking for added golden color and flavor. A silicone spatula will help you scrape every last bit of the egg mixture from your bowl, ensuring there’s no waste. These straightforward tools streamline the cooking process, making it efficient and enjoyable, even on a busy morning.
A measuring cup and spoons will ensure your ingredients are precisely portioned, which is crucial for achieving the right balance of flavors. If you’re making variations, a small skillet for sautéing mushrooms or spinach can also be useful. These tools aren’t just convenient; they also help bring out the best in your ingredients, ensuring that the final dish is as delicious as it is beautiful.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
- 2 8oz cans crescent roll
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (mix of Colby Jack and cheddar)
- 6-8 ounces thick cut ham, cubed into ½-cm pieces
- 1-2 whole jalapeño, deseeded and finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons freeze-dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F / 190°C.
- Spread a light layer of butter over a 9×13 casserole dish.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and cut along the perforated lines. Smear a dollop of cream cheese on each crescent roll triangle, then roll each one up.
- Place the crescent rolls evenly in the casserole dish, making two columns of 8 rolls each.
- In a large bowl, beat together the eggs and milk. Mix in the shredded cheese, ham, jalapeño, parsley, pepper, and salt until you have a chunky mixture.
- Pour the mixture over the crescent rolls, distributing evenly. Ensure everything is covered to the edges, with some tops of the rolls poking out.
- Bake on the middle oven rack for 30-40 minutes, until the casserole is puffy and golden brown. Cover with foil if it browns too quickly.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 15 minutes • Cooking Time: 40 minutes • Total Time: 55 minutes • Calories: 320 per serving • Servings: 8
Note: For a milder dish, remove the seeds from the jalapeños or omit them entirely. Add bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Rolls Arrangement: Arrange the crescent rolls with some space between each roll to allow the egg mixture to seep in between, ensuring a consistent texture. This will also help the casserole cook evenly, preventing any undercooked spots.
- Cheese Variations: Try using pepper jack for an extra kick, or mozzarella for a creamier texture. You could also experiment with smoked gouda for a unique, rich flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of jalapeños according to your spice tolerance. For a milder version, use fewer jalapeños or substitute with mild green chilies for a gentle warmth.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
Each ingredient in this casserole brings not only flavor but also nutritional benefits. Eggs provide a rich source of protein and essential vitamins, making them a powerhouse for starting your day. The cheese, while adding a creamy texture, also brings calcium and a comforting richness. Ham offers savory depth and protein, while jalapeños add a kick of metabolism-boosting capsaicin. Using crescent rolls as a base adds a buttery, flaky texture that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Together, these ingredients create a balanced dish that nourishes both body and soul.
The use of cream cheese adds a silky texture and a tangy flavor that complements the richness of the other ingredients. Incorporating freeze-dried parsley not only enhances the presentation with its vibrant color but also adds a dose of antioxidants. This combination of ingredients results in a dish that’s not only flavorful but also provides some essential nutrients to kickstart your day.
The crescent rolls, while indulgent, provide carbohydrates that give you the energy needed to tackle your morning. Jalapeños, with their bright and spicy profile, contain vitamin C and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to the dish. The parsley, often underestimated, is packed with vitamin K and can aid in digestion. This thoughtful blend of ingredients ensures that your breakfast is as nourishing as it is delicious.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
This Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory richness. A side of crispy hash browns or sautéed baby potatoes complements the soft texture of the casserole. For a splash of color and crunch, consider a simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette. And don’t forget the freshly brewed coffee or a glass of orange juice to round out a perfect breakfast experience.
For a special brunch occasion, you might serve it alongside a mimosa or a light spritzer, adding a festive touch to your gathering. If you prefer a heartier meal, consider pairing it with a side of bacon or breakfast sausages. The versatility of this dish means it can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, making it a reliable choice for any breakfast or brunch setting.
To add a touch of sweetness, serve the casserole with a side of maple-glazed bacon or cinnamon rolls. The sweet and savory combination is sure to delight your guests and make the meal feel indulgent. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a side of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes can enhance the flavor profile, adding another layer of complexity to the dish.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this casserole stores wonderfully. Simply cover the dish with foil or transfer individual portions to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about a minute or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Leftovers make a quick and satisfying breakfast or even a delightful lunch paired with a crisp green salad. This casserole is just as comforting and delicious the second time around, making it a convenient choice for meal prep or busy mornings.
For optimal freshness, consider freezing individual portions. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for the best texture. This casserole’s ability to freeze well makes it an excellent option for planning ahead, ensuring you always have a homemade breakfast ready to go.
To make the most of your leftovers, try incorporating them into other meals. Dice the leftover casserole and mix it into a breakfast burrito with some fresh salsa and avocado. Or, use it as a filling for a savory crepe, topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The possibilities are endless, and repurposing leftovers can make for exciting new meals that reduce waste and maximize flavor.
As you gather around the table to enjoy this Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole, I hope it brings you the same warmth and joy that fills my heart every time I share it with my family. There’s something special about a dish that not only nourishes but also creates memories, and I’m delighted to pass this piece of my kitchen onto yours. Here’s to more cozy mornings, laughter-filled brunches, and the shared love of homemade cooking that makes every meal a little more magical.
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Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F / 190°C.
- Spread a light layer of butter all over a 9×13 casserole dish.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough. Cut along the perforated lines. Smear a dollop of cream cheese on each crescent roll triangle. Then roll each one up.
- Place the crescent rolls evenly in the casserole dish. I made 2 columns of 8 rolls each.
- In a large bowl, beat together the eggs and milk. Mix in the shredded cheese, ham, jalapeño, parsley, pepper and salt. It will be a chunky mixture.
- Pour everything over the crescent rolls, as evenly and carefully as you can. Using your hands or a fork, gently distribute all the ingredients. Make sure everything is evenly distributed, all the way to the edge.
- Bake in the middle oven rack for about 30-40 minutes, until cooked through. The entire casserole will be puffy and golden brown. If it browns too quickly in your oven, cover it with a foil.
