This Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and easy breakfast dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a make-ahead meal. Featuring flaky crescent rolls stuffed with cream cheese and baked with a savory blend of eggs, ham, shredded cheese, and jalapeño, it’s a flavorful and hearty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz) cans crescent rolls
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (e.g., Colby Jack and Cheddar)
- 6–8 oz thick-cut ham, cubed (½ cm pieces)
- 1–2 whole jalapeños, deseeded and finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons freeze-dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Butter for greasing the pan
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter.
- Prepare the Crescent Rolls: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it along the perforated lines. Spread a dollop of cream cheese on each triangle, then roll each one up.
- Arrange Rolls: Place the rolled crescent rolls in the casserole dish, forming two columns with about ½-inch space between each roll.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Stir in shredded cheese, ham, jalapeños, parsley, pepper, and salt.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture over the crescent rolls, ensuring even distribution. Use a fork or your hands to spread the chunky ingredients evenly throughout, including to the edges.
- Bake: Place the casserole on the middle oven rack and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until puffy and golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, cover it with foil.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 217 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Sodium: 390 mg
- Sugar: 3 g
Enjoy this casserole for any occasion, from holidays to meal prep, with its delightful combination of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.
Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole: A Perfectly Balanced Morning Delight
The Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, combining convenience, flavor, and versatility in one satisfying dish. This breakfast casserole is the ideal choice for feeding a large group, prepping for the week ahead, or treating your family to a comforting and hearty start to their day. With its flaky crescent roll base, creamy filling, and savory toppings, it’s no wonder this recipe has gained popularity among breakfast enthusiasts.
A Dish for All Occasions
One of the standout qualities of this Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, preparing a weekend family breakfast, or searching for a quick weekday meal, this dish delivers. It’s easy to make, scalable to fit any crowd, and can be customized with endless variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
The make-ahead potential is another feature that makes this recipe a gem. Preparing the casserole the night before allows the flavors to meld, making the morning routine smoother and more stress-free. Just pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a hot, flavorful breakfast ready with minimal effort.
The Perfect Combination of Ingredients
This casserole features a delightful balance of textures and flavors:
- Crescent Rolls: The flaky, buttery crescent rolls form a tender yet sturdy base. Their slightly sweet flavor complements the savory toppings, adding a dimension of indulgence.
- Cream Cheese: A layer of cream cheese creates a rich and creamy filling, adding a hint of tanginess that balances the dish’s overall richness.
- Ham: Thick-cut ham brings a savory, smoky element, offering a hearty bite that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
- Cheese: The combination of Colby Jack and Cheddar cheeses provides a melty, gooey texture and a mild, comforting flavor.
- Jalapeños: Adding a touch of heat, the jalapeños elevate the dish’s flavor profile without overwhelming the palate. Their subtle spice complements the richness of the other components.
- Egg Mixture: The eggs and milk mixture acts as a binding agent while adding moisture and fluffiness to the casserole. Enhanced with parsley, black pepper, and sea salt, it delivers just the right seasoning to tie the dish together.
A Nutritional Perspective
Despite its indulgent flavors, this breakfast casserole strikes a reasonable balance in terms of nutrition. With an average of 217 calories per serving, it offers a satisfying meal without being overly heavy. The combination of protein, fats, and carbohydrates ensures sustained energy, making it an excellent choice to fuel your day.
The inclusion of jalapeños, parsley, and other whole ingredients adds subtle health benefits. Jalapeños provide vitamin C and capsaicin, which is known for its metabolism-boosting properties, while parsley is a source of antioxidants and vitamins. By using whole milk and quality cheese, you get a creamy texture without resorting to overly processed alternatives.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about the Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Protein Options: Swap out ham for cooked bacon, sausage, or a vegetarian alternative like sautéed mushrooms or plant-based meat crumbles.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, spinach, onions, or cherry tomatoes for a boost of color, texture, and nutrients.
- Spice Levels: For more heat, include red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage. For a milder dish, omit the jalapeños entirely.
- Dietary Adjustments: Opt for low-fat cheese and milk, or use crescent roll dough made with whole grains for a lighter version.
Tips for Success
Achieving the perfect Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is easy with a few handy tips:
- Prevent Overbrowning: If the top of the casserole starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to avoid burning while the center continues to cook.
- Even Distribution: Ensure the egg mixture is poured evenly over the crescent rolls. Using a fork or gently pressing the ingredients helps distribute the toppings throughout the dish.
- Allow Cooling Time: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the structure to set. This makes slicing and serving much easier.
- Grease the Pan Thoroughly: A well-greased pan prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
The Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole hits all the right notes for an unforgettable breakfast. Its combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors is complemented by a hint of spice, creating a dish that satisfies every craving. Its simplicity makes it approachable for novice cooks, while its versatility invites seasoned chefs to experiment with their personal touches.
Additionally, its ability to serve a large group without requiring constant attention in the kitchen makes it a lifesaver for busy mornings or special occasions. It’s also an excellent choice for meal prepping, as leftovers store and reheat beautifully.
Conclusion: A Staple in Your Recipe Collection
The Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. It brings people together, offering comfort and joy with every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, surprising your family with a delicious breakfast, or preparing meals for the week, this casserole has the power to brighten any morning.
By incorporating a few variations and embracing its customizable nature, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home. Its balance of flavor, texture, and convenience makes it a standout option that’s sure to impress. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again.