This tasty sausage breakfast casserole is loaded with yummy sausage, eggs, and cheese, all hugged by soft crescent roll dough. It’s a warm, hearty delight perfect for any morning!
Honestly, this dish is like a big breakfast hug on a plate! I love making it for brunch with friends. Just pop it in the oven, and enjoy the delicious smell wafting through the house!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: This is the star that forms the base of your casserole. If you’re short on crescent rolls, you can use puff pastry or even biscuit dough for a different texture.
Breakfast Sausage: I often use pork sausage, but turkey or even plant-based sausage works perfectly too! This gives you flexibility based on your dietary needs or preferences.
Eggs: Eggs are essential for binding everything together. If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of silken tofu blended until smooth for each egg.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a rich flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even pepper jack can give a nice twist. Cheese blends are also great for added flavor.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These add nice flavor and texture, but they’re optional. You could add spinach, mushrooms, or any other vegetables you like or have on hand!
How Can I Ensure My Casserole Sets Well?
It’s important to allow the casserole to bake long enough so that the eggs set properly. Here are key tips:
- Preheat your oven completely for even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the casserole in the oven; it should be golden brown on top and feel firm to the touch.
- If you notice the top browning too fast, cover it with foil to prevent burning while the center finishes cooking.
Letting it cool for a few minutes allows the layers to settle and makes it easier to slice. Enjoy your wonderful breakfast creation!
How to Make Sausage Breakfast Casserole With Crescent Roll Dough
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 (8 oz) package crescent roll dough
For the Filling:
- 1/2 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper (optional)
Seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
For Greasing:
- Butter or cooking spray (for greasing the pan)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to bake. Plus, it’s perfect for serving a group or enjoying as leftovers later in the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, take your baking dish (an 8×8 inch works great) and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking.
2. Form the Crust:
Unroll the crescent roll dough. Carefully press it into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared baking dish to create a nice crust. Make sure it’s even and covers the corners well.
3. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage along with the diced onion and bell pepper, if you’re using them. Break it up while cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a medium bowl, crack in the eggs and add the milk, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Whisk everything together until well blended.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the cooked sausage mixture evenly over the crescent roll crust you formed earlier. Then, carefully pour the egg mixture over the sausage layer, covering it evenly. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to slice. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful breakfast casserole with your family or friends!
Gather around the table and enjoy this hearty, cheesy sausage breakfast casserole—a wonderful way to start your day!
Can I Use Leftover Sausages for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked sausage, just chop it up and add it in instead of raw sausage. You may want to reduce the cooking time slightly since it will already be cooked through.
What Can I Substitute for Crescent Roll Dough?
If you don’t have crescent roll dough on hand, you can use puff pastry or biscuit dough as an alternative. Just roll them out to fit your baking dish, and they will work equally well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up or reheat in the oven until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! Just substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini are great options that will add flavor and texture!