Name: Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cans crescent roll (8 oz each); 4 ounces cream cheese; 6 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 2 cups shredded cheese (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

Introduction to Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole

If you’re looking for a breakfast that's both delicious and easy to whip up, the Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is your answer! This dish combines flaky crescent rolls with creamy cheese, eggs, and savory chicken ham for a delightful morning treat that brings everyone together. Perfect for weekend brunches or holiday gatherings, it’s become a go-to choice for many.

Why is the Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole a crowd favorite?

One of the biggest reasons this Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is beloved is its adaptability. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, whether it’s adding veggies like bell peppers or switching up the cheese. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, which means less clean-up time—a huge win!

Many families also adore the nostalgia tied to crescent rolls. They remind us of simple, shared moments at the breakfast table. Imagine a warm, golden-brown casserole item that not only fills bellies but also sparks conversations and laughter.

On top of that, its effortless preparation caters perfectly to the busy lifestyles of young professionals. A few minutes of prep is all it takes before it’s ready for the oven. That's why, when friends gather, this dish almost always steals the show. For even more breakfast ideas, consider checking out this top-rated recipe site to expand your culinary horizons.

Ingredients for Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, especially with a dish as comforting and indulgent as a Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole. Let’s dive into the delicious ingredients you’ll need to make this breakfast treat that’s not only easy to whip up but also incredibly satisfying.

Crescent Rolls: You’ll need two 8-ounce cans of crescent roll dough, which provide that golden, flaky base.
Cream Cheese: 4 ounces of cream cheese adds a rich, creamy layer that elevates the overall dish.
Eggs: Gather up 6 large eggs to create a fluffy and filling custard.
Whole Milk: Using 1 cup of whole milk will add to the creaminess and binding of the casserole.
Cheese: 2 cups of shredded cheese, like colby jack and cheddar, melts beautifully throughout the dish.
Chicken Ham: Use around 6-8 ounces of cubed chicken ham for a savory kick.
Jalapeño: If you like a little heat, add 1-2 finely chopped, deseeded whole jalapeños.
Seasonings: Don’t forget 2 teaspoons of freeze-dried parsley, ½ teaspoon of ground pepper, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt for flavor.

This combination of ingredients will create a hearty meal perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast at home. For more tips on the nutritional benefits of incorporating eggs and dairy, check out resources from the American Egg Board.

Feel free to swap in veggies or other proteins to make it your own!

Preparing Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole

Making a Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is an enjoyable way to kickstart your morning with minimal hassle! Whether you’re planning for a weekend brunch or a holiday gathering, this dish delivers hearty flavors and satisfying textures. Let’s dive into the preparation steps.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s helpful to gather everything you need. Here’s a quick checklist:

Crescent Rolls: 2 cans (8 oz each)
Cream Cheese: 4 oz, softened
Eggs: 6 large
Whole Milk: 1 cup
Shredded Cheese: 2 cups (I love a blend of colby jack and cheddar)
Chicken Ham: 6-8 oz, cubed into ½-cm pieces
Jalapeños: 1-2 whole, deseeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
Dried Parsley: 2 teaspoons
Pepper and Sea Salt: to taste

Having your ingredients ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. You can check out this guide on ingredient prep for more tips!

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish

Let’s kick things off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will create the perfect baking environment once your casserole is assembled. While your oven warms up, take a 9x13 casserole dish and spread a light layer of butter over the bottom. This simple step helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.

Prepare the Crescent Rolls

Next up, unroll the crescent roll dough carefully. Cut along the perforated lines to form triangles. Here’s the fun part: dab a small dollop of cream cheese on each triangle before rolling them up! This extra step will infuse the casserole with a creamy texture and flavor.

Mix the Filling Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your eggs and whole milk. Beat them together until you achieve a uniform mixture. Then, stir in the shredded cheese, cubed chicken ham, chopped jalapeños, dried parsley, and seasonings of pepper and salt. Don’t worry if your mixture looks a bit chunky—that’s just what we want!

Assemble and Bake the Casserole

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Place your crescent rolls in the casserole dish, spreading them out evenly. Pour the egg mixture over the rolls, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. It's okay if some deviate from the mix—just make sure to distribute everything as evenly as possible.

Bake your Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole in the middle of the oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until it’s puffy and golden brown. If you notice it browning too quickly, simply cover it with foil.

After baking, let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is perfect for sharing, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any table!

Enjoy your delightful breakfast experience!

Variations on Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole

Looking to switch things up with your Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole? Here are some delightful variations that cater to different tastes!

Veggie-packed Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole

For a vibrant twist, add a medley of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms. Sauté the veggies first to enhance their flavors and mix them into the egg mixture. Not only will this version brighten your casserole, but it will also provide a healthy boost to kickstart your day!

Mexican-inspired Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole

Craving something with a kick? Try a Mexican-inspired variant by incorporating chorizo or turkey bacon along with black beans and corn. To take it up a notch, sprinkle some taco seasoning into the egg mixture and top everything with fresh cilantro before serving. This gives your morning a zesty flavor that’s sure to impress!

For even more ideas, check out these breakfast casserole tips from Food Network.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole

When making your Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole, consider these handy tips for the best results:

Prep Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge—no need to let it sit out!
Cheese Varieties: Feel free to mix your favorite cheeses! Gouda or Swiss can add a delicious twist.
Custom Add-ins: Experiment with ingredients like spinach, peppers, or even Turkey Bacon for different flavors.
Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the casserole while baking; if it browns too quickly, cover it with foil.

For more tips on creating scrumptious breakfast dishes, check out resources like Food Network for inspiration!

Serving suggestions for Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole

Transform your Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole into a delightful spread with these serving suggestions. Pair it with a light side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing touch. A creamy avocado dip or homemade salsa can also elevate the dish and add layers of flavor.

Don’t forget condiments! Offer hot sauce for spice lovers and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy finish. For a complete breakfast experience, serve with fresh fruit such as berries or sliced melons. You can also add a selection of herb-infused teas to complement your meal beautifully.

For more breakfast ideas, check out this blog for inspiration!

Time breakdown for Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Getting everything ready is a breeze! In just 15 minutes, you can have your crescent roll dough unrolled and all your ingredients mixed and ready for the oven.

Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
This Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole takes about 30 to 40 minutes to bake to golden perfection. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't brown too quickly!

Total time: 45-55 minutes
In less than an hour, you can whip up a delicious breakfast that serves 16. Perfect for brunch gatherings or meal prep for the week!

For more breakfast ideas, consider checking out The Kitchen for tips on easy, healthy meals. Or if you're looking for more tasty casserole recipes, visit Taste of Home for inspiration!

Nutritional Facts for Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole

When it comes to enjoying a delicious breakfast without compromising on nutrition, Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is a great option. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’re getting:

Calories: 217 kcal per slice
Protein: 10g, making it a filling choice to kick-start your day
Sodium: 575mg, so you'll want to be mindful if you're watching your salt intake

This casserole is not only satisfying but also provides a good balance of protein and calories, perfect for fueling your busy mornings. If you’re interested in more nutritious breakfast ideas, you might want to check out this resource on balanced breakfast options from Healthline. Enjoy every bite and feel good about your meal choices!

FAQs about Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing this Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole the night before is a fantastic way to save time in the morning. Simply assemble it according to the recipe instructions, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, you can bake it straight from the fridge—just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What type of cheese works best?
You really can’t go wrong, but I love using a blend of Colby Jack and cheddar for a creamy, flavorful combination. If you want to switch things up, consider mozzarella for a milder taste, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick! Experiment with your favorites to make this dish truly yours.

Can I substitute the chicken ham?
Certainly! If chicken ham isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it for turkey bacon, crumbled sausage, or even sautéed veggies for a vegetarian option. This Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is versatile, making it easy to adapt to your dietary preferences while still being delicious.

Conclusion on Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole

The Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is a delightful way to kickstart your day. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this dish is perfect for brunch or gatherings. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy morning at home, this casserole promises comfort and satisfaction. Don't forget to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it your own!