Crescent Breakfast Squares are a delightful fusion of simplicity and flavor, making them a fantastic option for busy mornings, casual brunches, or even a breakfast on the go. With just a few store-bought ingredients like crescent roll dough, ham, eggs, and cheese, this recipe transforms into a hearty, satisfying meal in no time. The versatility of this dish is one of its key strengths—you can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs, from different types of meat to a wide range of cheeses and vegetables. Not only does it appeal to both kids and adults alike, but it’s also a dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making it a perfect choice for meal prepping or hosting a crowd.
The buttery, flaky crescent roll crust envelops layers of savory scrambled eggs, tender ham, sautéed vegetables, and melted Swiss cheese, all topped off with a dash of everything bagel seasoning for an extra pop of flavor. It’s a great way to use up leftover deli meats or cheeses and can be easily customized based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing for a special occasion, Crescent Breakfast Squares are sure to become a go-to recipe in your rotation.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 8 ounces ham slices
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon butter (divided)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell peppers
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
- Everything bagel seasoning (optional, for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Dough:
- Unroll the crescent dough and place one can’s worth on a sheet of parchment paper. Roll it into a 10×15-inch rectangle, sealing any perforations. Do the same with the second can of dough on a separate sheet of parchment.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Place one of the dough rectangles on a 13×18-inch sheet pan, keeping the parchment underneath.
- Layer the ham slices on the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the ham.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir the chopped onions and bell peppers for about 3 minutes until softened.
- Scramble the Eggs:
- Lower the heat to medium-low. Add another tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half (or cream), salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are just set but still moist.
- Assemble the Squares:
- Spread the scrambled eggs over the ham layer, keeping the 1/2-inch border intact.
- Lay the Swiss cheese slices on top of the eggs.
- Seal the Dough:
- Take the second rectangle of dough and place it over the filling. Remove the parchment paper carefully.
- Moisten the edges of the dough and press them together, sealing the two rectangles. Use a fork to crimp the edges.
- Bake the Breakfast Squares:
- Brush the top of the dough with melted butter and sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top, if desired.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is nicely browned.
- Cool and Slice:
- Remove the pan from the oven and cool the breakfast squares on a wire rack for about 15 minutes.
- Slice into squares using a sharp knife and serve.
Guidelines:
- You can customize the filling by adding different meats like bacon or sausage, or using a different cheese such as cheddar.
- Ensure the eggs are still slightly wet when you remove them from the heat as they will finish cooking in the oven.
- Bagel seasoning is optional, but it adds an extra layer of flavor.
Recipe Overview:
The Crescent Breakfast Squares are a quick and savory breakfast option that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing in advance. Using convenient store-bought crescent roll dough, this recipe offers a delicious combination of eggs, ham, cheese, and veggies, all baked together in a flaky, golden crust. The dish is versatile and can be adapted with different fillings or toppings to suit your preferences. It’s great for weekend brunches, holiday breakfasts, or meal prep for busy mornings.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Convenient Ingredients: By using crescent roll dough, you save time and effort while still achieving a buttery, flaky crust. No need for homemade dough!
- Customizable: Swap out the ham for bacon, sausage, or even a vegetarian option like spinach and mushrooms. The cheese can be changed to cheddar, mozzarella, or any favorite.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep, this recipe is suitable for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The dish can easily be sliced into squares for a group, making it ideal for breakfast gatherings or potlucks.
Serving Suggestions:
Crescent Breakfast Squares pair well with a fresh fruit salad or a side of roasted potatoes. You can also serve it with condiments like ketchup, hot sauce, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips:
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the dish in the morning before baking.
- Freezer-Friendly: After baking and cooling, the squares can be individually wrapped and frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Leftover Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or microwave for a quick fix.
Recipe Variations:
- Vegetarian: Skip the ham and load up on sautéed veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini. You can even add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Southwestern Style: Add cooked chorizo or ground sausage, replace the Swiss cheese with pepper jack, and throw in some diced jalapeños and salsa for a zesty kick.
- Breakfast Pizza: For a pizza twist, top the eggs with marinara sauce, pepperoni, and mozzarella before adding the second layer of crescent dough.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
Pro Tips for Success:
- Seal the Dough: Make sure to seal the edges of the dough well to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. Pressing the edges with a fork helps to create a tight seal.
- Don’t Overcook the Eggs: It’s important to remove the scrambled eggs from the heat while they’re still slightly wet, as they will finish cooking in the oven. This ensures they don’t become dry or rubbery.
- Let It Cool: After baking, allow the dish to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the squares hold their shape when cut.
Perfect for Any Occasion:
Whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating a holiday breakfast, or just looking for a comforting family meal, Crescent Breakfast Squares are a go-to option. They can be served as part of a breakfast buffet, brought to potlucks, or even enjoyed as a hearty snack. The ease of preparation and flexibility in ingredients make this recipe a timeless favorite.
FAQ Section:
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes! You can prepare the egg filling the night before, refrigerate it, and assemble the squares the next day for fresh baking.
Q: Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent rolls?
A: Absolutely! If you have time and prefer homemade dough, it will work just as well, though it might add extra prep time.
Q: How do I prevent the bottom from getting soggy?
A: Make sure the scrambled eggs aren’t too runny and avoid adding extra moisture like wet vegetables or sauces that could affect the texture of the dough.
Q: Can I freeze the leftover squares?
A: Yes! Just wrap individual squares in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the freezer. They’ll keep for up to two months.
Conclusion:
Crescent Breakfast Squares are more than just a simple breakfast recipe—they’re a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that brings comfort and convenience to your table. The combination of a flaky crescent roll crust, savory scrambled eggs, flavorful ham, and melty cheese makes every bite satisfying and packed with flavor. Plus, the option to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients allows you to make this recipe truly your own.
Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or a casual family meal, this dish is bound to impress with its ease of preparation and delicious results. Its ability to be made ahead of time and stored for later use also makes it an excellent option for busy households or those looking to streamline their morning routines. Not only can you adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs, but you can also get creative with variations like vegetarian, southwestern, or even breakfast pizza-style Crescent Squares.
