Introduction:
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls are a delightful and incredibly easy way to start your day. Imagine flaky, buttery crescent rolls embracing savory breakfast sausage and melted cheese. This combination creates a warm, comforting, and satisfying breakfast or brunch option that’s perfect for any occasion.
These crescent rolls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and convenient. They require minimal effort to prepare, making them ideal for busy mornings when you crave a homemade breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they are always a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re looking for a special weekend brunch treat or a quick and easy breakfast to fuel your weekdays, these Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls are the perfect solution. Their simple yet satisfying flavor and flaky texture make them an instant hit. Prepare to enjoy a breakfast that is both comforting and utterly delicious.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
To create these delectable Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls, you’ll need a handful of readily available and simple ingredients. These components combine effortlessly to deliver a breakfast treat that is both flavorful and satisfying. Ensure you have everything on hand before you begin for a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.
The star of this recipe is, of course, the crescent roll dough. You’ll need one package (typically around 8 ounces) of refrigerated crescent roll dough. These pre-made dough sheets are what give the rolls their signature flaky and buttery texture, and they save you considerable time and effort.
For the savory filling, you’ll require one pound of breakfast sausage. You can use your favorite type of breakfast sausage, whether it’s mild, medium, or spicy, depending on your preference. Ensure the sausage is removed from its casings if using links, or use pre-ground breakfast sausage for convenience.
Cheese adds a wonderful melted and gooey element to these rolls. You will need 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Cheddar cheese provides a classic and comforting cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with breakfast sausage.
An egg will be used to create an egg wash, which gives the crescent rolls their beautiful golden brown color and a slight sheen. You’ll need one large egg for this purpose. The egg wash is a simple but crucial step for enhancing the visual appeal of your breakfast rolls.
For seasoning, you’ll need a teaspoon of dried sage. Sage is a classic herb that complements breakfast sausage beautifully, adding a warm and slightly peppery flavor note. It enhances the overall savory taste of the filling.
Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors in the sausage mixture. You’ll need salt to taste and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Proper seasoning is key to bringing out the best flavors of all the ingredients.
Finally, for a touch of optional richness and flavor, you can use 2 tablespoons of butter, melted. Brushing the tops of the crescent rolls with melted butter before baking adds extra buttery flavor and contributes to their golden-brown crust. This step is optional but highly recommended for enhanced flavor and texture.
HOW TO MAKE “Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls”:
Crafting these Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls is a remarkably simple and satisfying process. The recipe involves just a few key steps, making it perfect for even novice bakers. From cooking the sausage to assembling and baking the rolls, each step is designed for ease and delicious results.
The process begins with cooking the breakfast sausage and preparing the filling. This is where the savory base of our crescent rolls is created, infusing the sausage with flavor and ensuring it’s perfectly cooked. Once the sausage is ready, you’ll move on to assembling the crescent rolls.
Next comes the fun part: assembling the crescent rolls with the sausage and cheese filling. This involves gently rolling out the crescent roll dough, adding the savory mixture, and shaping them into classic crescent roll form. This step is quick, easy, and almost therapeutic.
Finally, the assembled crescent rolls are baked to golden brown perfection. The oven’s warmth transforms the flaky dough and melts the cheesy filling, creating a warm and irresistible breakfast treat. Let’s delve into the step-by-step instructions to guide you through this delightful recipe.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Cook the Breakfast Sausage.
Begin by placing a skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage to the skillet. If using sausage links, ensure you remove them from their casings first.
Break the sausage apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. This will ensure it cooks evenly and crumbles nicely for the filling.
Cook the breakfast sausage until it is fully browned and cooked through, with no pink remaining. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes.
As the sausage cooks, drain off any excess grease from the skillet. Draining the grease is important to prevent the rolls from becoming too oily.
Season the cooked sausage with dried sage, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the sausage.
Set the cooked and seasoned sausage aside to cool slightly while you prepare the crescent roll dough. Allowing it to cool slightly will make it easier to handle and prevent it from melting the cheese prematurely.
Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking crescent rolls to a golden brown without burning.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents the crescent rolls from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup.
Alternatively, you can lightly grease the baking sheet if you don’t have parchment paper. However, parchment paper is generally recommended for best results.
Step 3: Assemble the Crescent Rolls.
Open the package of refrigerated crescent roll dough. Unroll the dough and separate it into triangles.
If your dough comes in sheets rather than pre-cut triangles, gently cut it into triangles yourself. Aim for approximately 8 triangles per package.
Place a spoonful of the cooked sausage mixture at the wide end of each crescent roll triangle. Distribute the sausage filling evenly among all the triangles.
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage filling on each triangle. Ensure each roll gets a good portion of cheese for maximum cheesiness.
Starting at the wide end of each triangle, roll up the dough towards the point. Gently pinch the edges to seal the rolls and ensure the filling stays inside.
Curve the ends of each roll slightly inwards to create the classic crescent shape. This step is primarily for aesthetic appeal and is not strictly necessary for the recipe to work.
Place the assembled crescent rolls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Proper spacing allows for even baking and prevents the rolls from sticking together.
Step 4: Prepare Egg Wash and Bake.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and a tablespoon of water to create the egg wash. Whisk until the egg and water are fully combined and slightly frothy.
Brush the tops of each crescent roll with the prepared egg wash. Apply the egg wash evenly for a consistent golden-brown color.
Optionally, brush the tops of the egg-washed crescent rolls with melted butter for extra richness and flavor. This step is not essential but adds a lovely touch of buttery goodness.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and cooked through. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.
The crescent rolls are done when they are puffed up, golden brown, and the dough is cooked through. The cheese should be melted and gooey.
Step 5: Cool and Serve.
Once baked, remove the Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving.
Cooling them slightly allows the filling to set a bit and prevents burning your mouth when you take a bite.
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired, for a touch of color. Parsley is optional but adds a fresh and visually appealing element.
Serve the Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls warm. They are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they are at their flakiest and cheesiest best.
Serve them as a delightful breakfast, brunch, or even a savory snack. They pair wonderfully with a side of fruit, yogurt, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
USEFUL TIPS:
To ensure your Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls are truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips. These suggestions can elevate both the flavor and the overall enjoyment of making and eating this recipe. Let’s explore some valuable insights to enhance your baking experience.
For enhanced sausage flavor, consider using a high-quality breakfast sausage. Opt for a sausage brand that you enjoy and that has good flavor on its own. The quality of the sausage directly impacts the overall taste of the rolls.
To prevent the crescent rolls from sticking to the baking sheet, always use parchment paper. Parchment paper is the most reliable way to ensure easy release and prevent sticking.
If you don’t have parchment paper, ensure you grease the baking sheet thoroughly and consider using a non-stick baking sheet. However, parchment is generally more effective.
For even cooking, make sure the crescent rolls are spaced evenly on the baking sheet. Proper spacing allows heat to circulate around each roll, promoting even browning and cooking.
Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can lead to unevenly cooked rolls.
If you want to add extra flavor to the sausage filling, consider incorporating finely diced onions or bell peppers when cooking the sausage. Sauté the diced vegetables with the sausage to soften them and add extra depth of flavor and texture to the filling.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture or use a spicy breakfast sausage. Red pepper flakes or spicy sausage will add a pleasant warmth that complements the savory flavors.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or spicy sausage to your desired level of heat.
To ensure the cheese is perfectly melted and gooey, make sure it is evenly distributed over the sausage filling. A generous and even layer of cheese is key to achieving that desirable melted and cheesy texture in every bite.
Don’t overbake the crescent rolls. Overbaking can make them dry and less flaky. Bake until they are golden brown and puffed, but still soft on the inside.
Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overbrowning.
If you want to make these ahead of time, you can assemble the crescent rolls and store them unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
When baking from the refrigerator, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Check for doneness by ensuring they are golden brown and cooked through.
DETAILS:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
The preparation time for Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls is approximately 20 minutes. This includes the time needed to cook the sausage, gather ingredients, shred cheese (if not pre-shredded), and prepare the baking sheet and egg wash.
Efficient prep work streamlines the overall cooking process and makes it a quick and easy breakfast option.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
The cooking time for these crescent rolls is around 15 minutes. This encompasses the time to bake the assembled rolls in the preheated oven until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them towards the end.
Total Time: 35 minutes
The total time from start to finish for Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls is approximately 35 minutes. This includes both the prep time and the cooking time, making it a relatively quick and efficient breakfast or brunch recipe for busy mornings.
Yield: 8 servings
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, assuming one package of 8 crescent rolls. It is ideal for serving a small family or group.
The recipe can be easily doubled or halved to adjust the yield according to your needs.
Category: Breakfast/Brunch
This dish is categorized as breakfast or brunch. It is designed to be a satisfying and flavorful morning meal, perfect for starting the day or enjoying during a leisurely weekend brunch.
It can also be served as a savory snack or light lunch.
Method: Oven Baked
The primary cooking method used in this recipe is oven baking. The oven provides even heat to bake the crescent rolls to golden brown perfection, melting the cheese and cooking the dough thoroughly.
Oven baking is a simple and effective method for creating flaky and delicious crescent rolls.
Cuisine: American
The cuisine of this recipe is best described as American. It features familiar and comforting flavors and ingredients commonly found in American breakfast and brunch cuisine, such as breakfast sausage and cheddar cheese.
It embodies the spirit of classic American comfort food, adapted for a quick and easy preparation.
Diet: Not specified
The diet classification for this recipe is not specifically limited. However, it can be adapted to fit certain dietary preferences with some modifications.
For a lower-fat version, use leaner breakfast sausage and reduced-fat cheese. To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and ensure the crescent roll dough is dairy-free.
It’s a versatile base recipe that can be adjusted to suit various dietary needs and preferences.
NOTES:
These Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls are delicious served on their own, but they can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Consider serving them with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or melon, for a balanced meal.
They also pair well with yogurt or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and tang. For a more substantial brunch, serve them alongside scrambled eggs or a simple salad.
Leftovers of these crescent rolls store well in the refrigerator. Simply place any remaining rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate them promptly after they have cooled completely.
Properly stored leftovers can be enjoyed for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them gently before serving to restore their warm and flaky texture.
When reheating leftovers, the oven or toaster oven is recommended for best results. Reheating in the oven or toaster oven helps to crisp up the dough and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for a quicker option, but the texture may be slightly softer.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in these crescent rolls. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses would all be delicious alternatives to cheddar.
Consider using different cheese varieties to customize the flavor profile to your liking. You can also add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to the tops before baking for extra cheesy flavor.
For added flavor complexity, consider incorporating other seasonings into the sausage mixture. Onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add depth and warmth to the savory filling.
Experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own signature flavor combination.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can definitely use different types of sausage in this recipe. Ground turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even Italian sausage (mild or sweet) would all be delicious alternatives to breakfast sausage.
The type of sausage you use will influence the final flavor profile of the crescent rolls, so choose one that you enjoy.
Can I use different cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese or a blend of cheeses. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, provolone, pepper jack, or even a smoky Gouda would all work wonderfully.
Experiment with different cheeses to find your perfect cheesy combination and create variations of this recipe.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to the sausage filling. Finely diced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would all be excellent additions.
Sauté the vegetables with the sausage until softened before using them to fill the crescent rolls. Vegetables add flavor, texture, and nutritional value to the rolls.
Can I make these crescent rolls ahead of time and freeze them?
Yes, you can assemble the crescent rolls and freeze them before baking. Assemble the rolls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them until solid.
Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Freezing is a great way to prepare these rolls in advance for a future breakfast or brunch.
Can I make these without crescent roll dough?
While crescent roll dough is key to the flaky texture of this recipe, you could potentially use puff pastry as a substitute. Puff pastry will provide a similar flaky texture but will result in a slightly different shape and overall feel.
Crescent roll dough is specifically designed for crescent shapes, while puff pastry is more versatile in terms of shaping.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
To store leftover Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls, ensure they are completely cooled to room temperature first. Cooling them before storing prevents condensation and helps maintain their texture.
Do not leave the cooked crescent rolls at room temperature for more than two hours to prevent potential bacterial growth. Food safety is important, especially with meat and dairy-based fillings.
Once cooled, transfer the leftover crescent rolls to an airtight container. A sealed container will prevent them from drying out and maintain their freshness and flavor for longer.
Ensure the container is properly closed before refrigerating.
Store the airtight container of leftover crescent rolls in the refrigerator. Refrigerate them promptly after cooling for optimal food safety and to maintain their quality.
Leftover Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Consume them within this timeframe for the best flavor and texture.
For reheating, preheat your oven or toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Reheat the crescent rolls for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisped up again.
Reheating in the oven or toaster oven is the best way to restore their flaky texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soggy.
RELATED RECIPES
If you enjoyed these Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls, you’ll surely love these other delightful breakfast and brunch recipes:
Cheesy Bacon and Egg Casserole with Turkey Ham.
A hearty and satisfying casserole filled with eggs, turkey ham, cheese, and bread, perfect for a weekend brunch. This casserole is a great make-ahead option for feeding a crowd and offers a delicious combination of savory breakfast flavors.
Spinach and Feta Quiche with a Flaky Crust.
A classic quiche filled with a creamy mixture of eggs, spinach, and feta cheese, all encased in a flaky pie crust. This quiche is elegant and flavorful, perfect for a special brunch or a light lunch.
Blueberry Streusel Muffins with a Crumbly Topping.
Moist and tender blueberry muffins topped with a buttery, crumbly streusel topping. These muffins are a delightful sweet treat for breakfast or brunch, bursting with juicy blueberries and sweet streusel.
Savory Turkey Ham and Cheese Scones.
Flaky and savory scones loaded with diced turkey ham and cheddar cheese, offering a delicious alternative to sweet scones. These scones are perfect for a savory breakfast or brunch option and pair wonderfully with butter or cream cheese.
CONCLUSION
Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls are more than just a simple recipe; they are an invitation to create a warm and comforting start to your day. From their easy preparation to their crowd-pleasing flavor, these rolls are designed to bring joy to your breakfast table.
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flaky crescent dough, savory breakfast sausage, and gooey melted cheese. The straightforward steps and readily available ingredients make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced home chefs.
So gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and prepare to indulge in the warm, savory goodness of these Breakfast Sausage Crescent Rolls. Enjoy the simple pleasure of making and sharing this comforting breakfast treat with your loved ones. These crescent rolls are sure to become a cherished recipe for your morning culinary repertoire.
