If you are looking for a hearty and absolutely irresistible breakfast dish, this Sausage & Cream Cheese Crescent Breakfast Casserole Recipe will become your go-to favorite in no time. It beautifully combines savory breakfast sausage, creamy cheese, and buttery crescent rolls into one luscious casserole that’s perfect for family brunches or a special weekend treat. The way the sausage and cream cheese meld together inside those golden crescent roll pockets is pure magic, and the rich custard baked on top ties everything together with a lovely, custardy finish. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be making it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Sausage & Cream Cheese Crescent Breakfast Casserole Recipe comes down to a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating that rich, comforting flavor and perfect texture. From the savory breakfast sausage to the flaky crescents and gooey cheddar, every item is essential.
- 1 (1-lb) roll breakfast sausage: Provides the savory foundation and meaty flavor that’s the star of the dish.
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese (softened): Adds creamy, tangy smoothness that balances the sausage perfectly.
- 2 (8-count) tubes refrigerated crescent rolls: Flaky and buttery dough that wraps everything into delicious pockets.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the top to add a sharp, cheesy contrast.
- 5 large eggs: Help create the rich custard base that binds the casserole together.
- 1½ cups milk: Brings creaminess and moisture to the egg mixture.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Adds a subtle depth of savoriness.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Provides a gentle hint of warmth to round out the flavors.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
How to Make Sausage & Cream Cheese Crescent Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Cook the Sausage
Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. This will ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly. Then, place the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat and cook until it’s no longer pink. This step is crucial for flavor development and food safety! After it’s cooked through, drain off the excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy. Next, stir in the softened cream cheese right into the sausage while it’s still warm — this helps the cream cheese melt smoothly and creates a rich filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Rolls
Now for the fun part! Unroll both cans of refrigerated crescent rolls and separate them into 16 triangles. Then cut each triangle lengthwise into 2 narrow triangles. This gives you 32 smaller pockets, which are perfect for stuffing with that luscious sausage and cream cheese mixture. The crescent dough is buttery and flaky, which contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Crescent Roll Pockets
Scoop a heaping tablespoon of the sausage and cream cheese mixture onto the wide side of each narrow triangle. Then roll it up tightly and place them seam-side down in the prepared pan. This step takes a little bit of patience but trust me, the results are worth it! Repeat until you’ve used all the triangles and filling.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Custard Mixture
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the crescent rolls in the pan. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this rich custard mixture over the cheese and crescents, letting it seep into all the little nooks and crannies. This custard is what brings the casserole together as it bakes, giving it that dreamy, custardy texture and flavor that you will love.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the egg custard is set and the top is a gorgeous golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole feels firm to the touch and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool just a bit before serving to let those flavors settle.
How to Serve Sausage & Cream Cheese Crescent Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a lovely touch of color and a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness perfectly. You could also add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick, depending on your mood.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad to brighten up the plate or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette if you’re serving it for brunch. For a heartier meal, crispy breakfast potatoes or hash browns round it out beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, consider serving the casserole in mini muffin tins for personalized, grab-and-go portions. You can also slice it into squares and serve alongside scrambled eggs or fresh toast for a full breakfast spread. Presentation is all about making your meal feel special and welcoming.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover it well to keep it moist and fresh. It reheats beautifully and maintains its texture, making it an excellent make-ahead breakfast option.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble as directed, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra bake time. If freezing leftovers, wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or warm a whole casserole in a 350ºF oven until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes. This will bring back the melty, delicious texture you want anytime you crave this dish.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While breakfast sausage is traditional and flavorful, you can swap in spicy Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even a vegetarian alternative depending on your preference. Just adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese in the casserole?
You could try using ricotta or a mild goat cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor. Keep in mind cream cheese gives a unique creaminess and tang that really ties the sausage filling together.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crescent roll dough or substitute with gluten-free puff pastry. Make sure your sausage and other ingredients are also gluten-free to keep it safe for dietary needs.
What’s the best way to reheat this casserole without drying it out?
Reheat gently in the oven covered with foil to retain moisture, or microwave with a small cup of water nearby to keep the casserole soft and creamy.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, just pop it into the oven and bake as directed. It’s perfect for busy mornings or entertaining guests.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage & Cream Cheese Crescent Breakfast Casserole Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines comfort and convenience in the best way possible. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting brunch, or simply craving a decadent breakfast dish, this casserole promises to deliver big smiles and full bellies. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a cherished staple in your kitchen!
Print
Sausage & Cream Cheese Crescent Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Sausage & Cream Cheese Crescent Breakfast Casserole is a savory, cheesy morning delight perfect for feeding a crowd. Crescent rolls filled with a creamy blend of cooked breakfast sausage and cream cheese are rolled up and baked in a casserole dish, then topped with cheddar cheese and an egg custard mixture. The result is a hearty, comforting dish combining flaky pastry, rich sausage, and fluffy baked eggs — ideal for brunch or an easy weekend breakfast.
Ingredients
Sausage & Cream Cheese Filling
- 1 (1-lb) roll breakfast sausage
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
Crescent Rolls
- 2 (8-count) tubes refrigerated crescent rolls
Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Egg Mixture
- 5 large eggs
- 1½ cups milk
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375ºF. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it is no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once done, drain excess fat and stir in the softened cream cheese until thoroughly combined and creamy.
- Prepare Crescent Rolls: Unroll the two tubes of refrigerated crescent rolls, separating them into 16 large triangles. Then cut each triangle lengthwise into two narrow triangles to make 32 smaller triangles in total.
- Assemble Crescent Rolls: Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the sausage and cream cheese filling onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Roll them up tightly from the wide end to the pointed end, then place each roll seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat until all the triangles are filled and arranged in the dish.
- Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the rolled crescents to add a rich, melty cheese topping.
- Mix and Pour Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this egg custard evenly over the cheese-covered crescent rolls in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the egg mixture is fully set and the crescents are golden brown and puffed. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to easily mix with the cooked sausage.
- You can adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- For a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sausage mixture.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before; assemble it, cover, refrigerate, and bake in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking straight from the fridge.
