Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the convenience of store-bought crescent rolls with the rich, savory flavors of eggs, cheese, ham, and a hint of spice from jalapeños. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser, offering a balance of textures and tastes that satisfy a range of palates. The flaky, buttery crescent rolls provide a perfect base, soaking up the creamy egg mixture while maintaining their tender, golden-brown crust. The combination of melty cheese, savory ham, and the subtle kick of jalapeños creates a harmonious blend of flavors that makes each bite incredibly satisfying. What makes this dish even more appealing is its versatility—it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or when hosting a brunch gathering.
Ingredient Breakdown and Substitutions
The Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole brings together a variety of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating a delicious and satisfying dish.
- Crescent Rolls: These pre-packaged rolls form the foundation of the casserole, providing a flaky and buttery base that is both easy and quick to prepare. Their light texture contrasts beautifully with the richer components of the dish, making them an ideal choice for this recipe.
- Cream Cheese: Spread over the crescent rolls, cream cheese adds a smooth, rich layer of creaminess that balances the savory flavors of the other ingredients. Its mild tang also enhances the overall depth of the casserole.
- Eggs: Acting as the binding agent, eggs are essential in holding the casserole together. They provide structure while also contributing to the dish’s fluffy and light texture when combined with milk.
- Milk: By adding moisture to the egg mixture, milk ensures that the casserole remains soft and tender. It also helps to achieve a perfectly puffed and golden finish after baking.
- Shredded Cheese (Colby Jack & Cheddar): The combination of Colby Jack and Cheddar brings a blend of mild and sharp flavors, along with a creamy melt that enriches every bite. These cheeses also contribute to the gooey, indulgent texture of the casserole.
- Ham: Offering a savory, meaty component, ham adds both flavor and substance to the casserole. The salty and smoky notes of ham complement the creaminess of the cheese and eggs, making the dish more robust and satisfying.
- Jalapeños: Finely chopped jalapeños introduce a mild heat and a burst of freshness to the casserole. They add a subtle kick that elevates the flavor profile without overwhelming the dish.
- Seasonings (Parsley, Pepper, Sea Salt): Parsley, pepper, and sea salt are simple yet essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the casserole. Parsley adds a hint of herbaceous brightness, while pepper and sea salt bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Possible Substitutions:
- Meat: Turkey or bacon can be used instead of ham for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese such as Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for an added kick.
- Milk: Substitute whole milk with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk for a lighter option.
- Jalapeños: If you prefer less heat, swap jalapeños with mild green chilies or omit them altogether.
Step-by-Step Instructions and Cooking Tips
Preparing the Crescent Rolls
1. Unrolling the Dough:
Begin by carefully unrolling the crescent roll dough from the can. It’s important to work slowly and gently to avoid tearing the dough along the perforated lines. Place the dough on a flat, clean surface, such as a large cutting board or countertop. If the dough is sticking, lightly dust the surface with flour to make handling easier. Once unrolled, separate the dough along the pre-cut perforations into individual triangles.
2. Applying Cream Cheese:
To ensure even flavor distribution, use softened cream cheese, which is easier to spread. Take a small dollop of cream cheese (about half a tablespoon) and place it in the center of each crescent roll triangle. Using a butter knife or a small spatula, spread the cream cheese evenly across the entire triangle, leaving a small margin at the edges to prevent it from oozing out during baking. Consistent spreading ensures that each bite of the casserole has the perfect amount of creamy richness.
3. Rolling the Crescent Rolls:
Starting at the wide end of each triangle, gently roll the dough towards the opposite point, creating a crescent shape. As you roll, maintain a light and even pressure to keep the dough from stretching or tearing. Aim to roll each crescent evenly so that they are uniform in size, which helps with even baking. After rolling, place the crescents in your prepared casserole dish, aligning them in rows. Ensure the crescents are placed snugly but not too tightly together, as they will expand slightly during baking. This careful preparation results in a casserole that is both visually appealing and deliciously balanced in texture.
Mixing the Egg and Cheese Mixture
1. Beating the Eggs and Milk Together:
Start by cracking the eggs into a large mixing bowl. To ensure a smooth and well-mixed base, use a whisk or a hand mixer to beat the eggs until the yolks and whites are fully combined, creating a uniform yellow mixture. Next, add the cup of whole milk to the beaten eggs. Continue whisking until the milk is fully incorporated, resulting in a smooth and consistent mixture. The addition of milk helps to achieve a fluffy and tender texture in the final casserole, so be sure to mix thoroughly, avoiding any streaks of egg or milk.
2. Incorporating the Shredded Cheese, Ham, Jalapeño, and Seasonings:
Once the egg and milk mixture is ready, it’s time to add the remaining ingredients. Start by gradually adding the shredded cheese (Colby Jack and Cheddar), stirring as you go to ensure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Follow with the cubed ham, ensuring it’s spread uniformly for even bites of meat in every serving. Next, add the finely chopped jalapeños, distributing them evenly for consistent heat in the dish. Finally, sprinkle in the freeze-dried parsley, ground pepper, and sea salt. As you add each ingredient, continue to stir gently but thoroughly, making sure everything is evenly incorporated. This step is crucial for ensuring that each bite of the casserole has a balanced mix of flavors and textures, with no clumps or uneven distribution of ingredients. The result should be a chunky, well-mixed base that’s ready to pour over the prepared crescent rolls.
Assembling the Casserole
1. Arranging the Crescent Rolls in the Casserole Dish:
After preparing the crescent rolls, it’s time to arrange them in the casserole dish. Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the rolled crescent rolls into the dish, creating two columns of rolls if your dish allows. Arrange them in rows, leaving a small space between each roll to allow for even expansion during baking. This spacing helps ensure that the crescent rolls cook uniformly and that the egg mixture can flow around each roll, filling the gaps. If your dish is smaller or larger, adjust the arrangement accordingly, but aim to keep the rolls in an even pattern for the best results.
2. Pouring the Egg Mixture Over the Rolls:
Once the crescent rolls are arranged, it’s time to pour the egg mixture over them. Carefully and slowly pour the mixture evenly across the casserole dish, making sure to cover all the rolls. Pour from the center and work your way outwards to ensure that the mixture spreads across the entire surface. As you pour, use a spatula or spoon to gently guide the mixture into the spaces between the crescent rolls, helping it seep into all the nooks and crannies. This ensures that the egg mixture is evenly distributed, which is essential for consistent cooking.
3. Adjusting the Placement of Ingredients for an Even Bake:
After pouring the egg mixture, take a moment to check the distribution of ingredients. If any ham, cheese, or jalapeños have clumped together, use a fork or spatula to gently redistribute them, ensuring an even spread throughout the casserole. This step is crucial for preventing uneven cooking, where some parts might be overcooked while others remain undercooked. Also, gently press down any crescent roll tops that are poking too far out of the mixture to encourage even baking. The egg mixture should cover the rolls almost entirely, with just a few tops peeking out. This careful arrangement helps the casserole bake uniformly, resulting in a golden-brown top and a perfectly cooked interior.
Finally, place the dish on the middle rack of your preheated oven to ensure even heat distribution during baking. Following these assembly tips will help create a casserole that is beautifully layered, with every bite offering a perfect balance of fluffy eggs, savory fillings, and buttery crescent rolls.
Baking and Monitoring the Casserole
1. Guidelines for Baking:
After assembling the casserole, it’s crucial to bake it properly to achieve the desired texture and flavor. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before placing the casserole inside. Position the dish on the middle rack of the oven. The middle rack is optimal because it allows for even heat distribution, which is key to ensuring that the casserole cooks uniformly. This position helps prevent the bottom from burning while the top remains undercooked, and it encourages even browning across the entire dish.
2. Monitoring Doneness:
As the casserole bakes, keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook or brown too quickly. The first sign that the casserole is nearing completion is when it becomes puffy and rises slightly. The top should turn a beautiful golden-brown color, indicating that the crescent rolls are fully cooked and the egg mixture has set. Depending on your oven, the casserole should bake for about 30 to 40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or a knife into the center of the casserole. If it comes out clean, the dish is ready. If it has wet egg mixture on it, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.
3. Tips for Preventing Over-Browning:
If you notice that the casserole is browning too quickly, particularly around the edges, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil. This will protect the top from burning while allowing the inside to continue cooking. Check the casserole periodically and remove the foil in the last few minutes of baking if necessary to allow the top to brown evenly.
4. Cooling and Setting Tips After Baking:
Once the casserole is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This short cooling period allows the casserole to set, making it easier to slice and serve. It also helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious dish. Cutting into the casserole too soon may cause it to fall apart, so patience is key. After it has rested, cut the casserole into squares or slices, and serve warm. This cooling step ensures that the casserole holds its shape and delivers the perfect texture in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
The Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. For a complete breakfast or brunch, consider pairing the casserole with light and refreshing sides such as fresh fruit, yogurt, or a simple green salad. A fruit salad with berries, melon, and citrus slices provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory casserole, while a side of Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey and nuts adds creaminess and texture.
When it comes to drinks, coffee and tea are classic choices that complement the richness of the casserole. For a non-caffeinated option, freshly squeezed orange juice or a light mimosa makes an excellent pairing, adding a refreshing citrus note to the meal.
For a brunch setting, present the casserole in the center of the table on a decorative trivet, allowing guests to serve themselves. Garnish the top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Arrange the side dishes and drinks around the casserole to create an inviting and visually appealing spread that encourages guests to enjoy a leisurely meal together.
Recipe Variations
The Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to customize it to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas to try:
1. Vegetarian Option:
For a meat-free version, swap the ham for a variety of sautéed vegetables. Consider using a combination of spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions. These vegetables add texture, flavor, and nutrients to the dish, making it a hearty and satisfying vegetarian breakfast. You can also add some sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy kick and extra depth of flavor.
2. Spicy Variation:
If you enjoy a bit more heat, there are several ways to spice up the casserole. Double the amount of jalapeños or substitute them with hotter peppers like serranos. Alternatively, replace the ham with spicy sausage, such as chorizo or hot Italian sausage, for a bolder flavor profile. These additions will give the casserole an extra kick that’s perfect for those who like their breakfast with a bit of spice.
3. Different Cheeses:
Experimenting with different cheeses can completely change the flavor of the casserole. Try using Swiss cheese for a mild, nutty flavor, or Gouda for a richer, creamier texture. For an even sharper taste, opt for a mix of sharp Cheddar and Parmesan. Each cheese brings its own unique character, allowing you to tailor the casserole to your preferences or to complement other dishes on your brunch table.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Best Practices for Storing:
To store leftover Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole, allow it to cool completely before wrapping. Cut the casserole into individual portions for easy reheating. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss. Alternatively, you can place the portions in an airtight container. Store the wrapped or containerized casserole in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Tips for Reheating:
For the best results, reheat the casserole in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the desired portions on a baking sheet, and cover them with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. If using a microwave, place the portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
Shelf Life and Freezer Storage Tips:
If you’d like to store the casserole for a longer period, freeze it. Wrap portions in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in airtight freezer bags. Frozen, the casserole will last up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating as described above.
Additional Tips for Success
Importance of Fresh Ingredients:
Using fresh ingredients is key to enhancing the flavor and texture of your Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole. Fresh eggs, cheese, and herbs will make a noticeable difference in the dish’s richness and overall taste. Opt for high-quality ham and freshly shredded cheese, as pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect the casserole’s consistency.
Tips for Ensuring Even Cooking:
To ensure your casserole cooks evenly, make sure the crescent rolls are evenly spaced and that the egg mixture is uniformly distributed. If your oven tends to have hot spots, rotate the casserole halfway through baking. Covering with foil if it browns too quickly also helps achieve even doneness without overcooking the top.
Making the Dish Kid-Friendly or Suitable for Picky Eaters:
To make the casserole more appealing to kids or picky eaters, reduce or omit the jalapeños to eliminate the heat. You can also swap ham for milder meats like turkey or chicken sausage. For a fun twist, consider adding small pieces of their favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or corn, to make the dish more colorful and appealing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Assemble the casserole as instructed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, and then bake as directed.
2. Can I freeze the casserole before or after baking?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual. If freezing after baking, let the casserole cool completely, portion it, and then wrap or store in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen, or thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
3. What other meats can I use instead of ham?
You can substitute ham with various meats such as cooked bacon, sausage, turkey, or chicken. For a smoky flavor, try using smoked sausage or Canadian bacon.
4. How can I make this casserole less spicy?
To make the casserole less spicy, simply reduce or omit the jalapeños. You can also use milder peppers like bell peppers, or add a small amount of diced green chilies for a hint of flavor without the heat.
5. Can I use a different type of dough?
Yes, you can use different types of dough, such as puff pastry or refrigerated biscuit dough, for a different texture. Puff pastry will give a flakier, lighter result, while biscuit dough will make the casserole more hearty and dense.
Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole
Description
This Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that brings together the savory flavors of ham, cheese, and a touch of spice, all nestled within flaky crescent rolls. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a make-ahead breakfast, this casserole is both easy to prepare and highly customizable. The creamy, cheesy egg mixture soaks into the buttery crescent rolls, creating a fluffy and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With the added convenience of using store-bought crescent rolls, this dish is a time-saver that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 8oz cans crescent roll
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cup shredded cheese – I used 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
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Preheat your oven to 375°F / 190°C.
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Spread a light layer of butter all over a 9×13 casserole dish.
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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.
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Place the crescent rolls evenly in the casserole dish. I made 2 columns of 8 rolls each.
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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.
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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. The mixture should just about cover the crescent rolls. You may have some of the crescent roll tops poking out. That is ok.
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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.
Notes
- Customization: Feel free to tailor this casserole to your family’s tastes by swapping out ingredients or adding your favorite veggies or meats. This recipe is highly versatile and can be adjusted to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences.
- Make-Ahead: This casserole can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning, making it an excellent choice for holiday mornings or when you have guests.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños, or leave them out entirely for a milder dish.
- Serving: This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides, such as fresh fruit, a simple salad, or a dollop of yogurt, making it a well-rounded meal for any time of day.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture and flavor.
