Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls Recipe
Say hello to your new weeknight hero: Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls. This is the kind of dish that feels like a big, cozy hug after a busy day. Hearty pasta tossed with rich, cheesy sauce, tasty sausage, and vibrant broccoli, all crowned with golden, buttery crescent rolls that bake up pillowy and irresistible. It covers all the bases—craveable comfort, kid-friendly flavors, and a show-stopping finish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for yourself, Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls is a genius way to get delicious food on the table with minimal fuss (but maximum flavor!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of simple, familiar ingredients to bring magic to your table. Each one earns its place—bringing texture, color, and that soul-satisfying taste that gives this casserole its charm.
- Pasta (8 oz penne or rotini): The base of the dish; tubular shapes hold the sauce perfectly.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and helps brown the sausage for extra flavor.
- Italian sausage (1 pound, mild or spicy): Packs a punch of savory flavor—pick your preferred heat level!
- Broccoli florets (2 cups, fresh or frozen): Sneaks in veggies and keeps every bite colorful.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Essential for a smooth, silky cheese sauce base.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens your cheese sauce to creamy perfection.
- Milk (1 1/2 cups): Brings all the sauce ingredients together in luscious harmony.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully and gives the dish its melty, gooey appeal.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds salty, nutty notes that cut through the richness.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Just a hint to round out the sauce with extra warmth.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): For perfect seasoning, tailored to you and your crowd.
- Refrigerated crescent rolls (1 can, 8 oz): The fun, flaky topping that bakes up golden on top!
How to Make Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s getting warm, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until it’s just al dente—don’t walk away! In the final two minutes of cooking, throw in the broccoli florets so they stay bright green and tender. Drain it all and set aside. You’re laying the groundwork for Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls heaven!
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in your olive oil. Add the sausage (casings off!), breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. Let it sizzle away until it’s wonderfully browned and thoroughly cooked. If you see extra grease, just spoon it off, but leave a little for flavor. This layer adds big flavor and heartiness to your casserole.
Step 3: Make the Rich Cheese Sauce
Lower your skillet to medium heat, add the butter, and let it melt into any sausage drippings left. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute—it’ll get foamy and fragrant. Now, pour in the milk little by little, whisking constantly. You’ll feel the magic as it thickens up in 3–4 minutes. Melt in the cheddar and Parmesan with a sprinkle of garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. You’ll end up with a sauce that’s so silky and cheesy, you’ll want to eat it straight from the pan!
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add your drained pasta, tender broccoli, and browned sausage right into that luscious cheese sauce. Stir it all together so every noodle and floret is coated. Pour the whole mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and even things out—you’re almost there!
Step 5: Top with Crescent Rolls and Bake
Unroll the crescent dough and gently lay the triangles over your cheesy pasta mixture. Don’t worry if they don’t cover every inch; a bit of bubbling casserole peeking through looks (and tastes) amazing. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. The crescent rolls will puff and turn a gorgeous golden brown while the filling gets bubbly and even more delicious under the surface.
Step 6: Rest, Serve, and Enjoy!
Once the Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls is baked to golden perfection, let it cool for just a few minutes so you can slice and serve with ease. This last pause is the hardest part—but so worth it once you see those creamy, cheesy layers underneath!
How to Serve Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley, a few extra shavings of Parmesan, or even a handful of chopped scallions will all bring a bright, fresh pop to your Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls. If you’re feeling decadent, a quick grind of black pepper or a dash of chili flakes on top can take it to the next level!
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness. Steamed green beans or roasted carrots add even more veggies to your meal. And if you’re feeding a big crowd, some simple garlic bread never hurts—just don’t forget that the crescent roll topping steals much of the show!
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking the Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls in individual ramekins for adorable, single-serve portions that impress at any dinner party. Or, swap in different pasta shapes and cheese blends for a custom twist. To really wow, shape the crescent dough into a lattice before baking—it looks fancy and guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the baking dish with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crescent topping stays surprisingly soft and satisfying, even after chilling!
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the casserole (baked or unbaked) in a freezer-safe dish. If unbaked, wrap tightly and add the crescent roll topping just before cooking. Thawed and reheated, this dish tastes just as fabulous—making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeks.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole loosely with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also zap single portions in the microwave, though give the crescent topping a quick pass under the broiler or in a toaster oven for best results.
FAQs
Can I use another type Main Course
Absolutely! Swap in turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter take, or try a spicy chorizo or kielbasa if you want a different flavor profile. Just make sure to cook until browned and crumbly for the best texture.
What if I don’t have crescent rolls?
No crescent rolls? Puff pastry, biscuit dough, or even homemade pizza dough work well as toppings. Each brings its own fun personality, but the crescent rolls have that classic buttery flavor and fluffy finish that makes this casserole shine.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply grab your favorite gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the cheese sauce. There are even gluten-free crescent roll options at many grocery stores—just double-check the labels to be sure.
How do I add more vegetables?
Feel free to toss in sautéed mushrooms, sweet bell peppers, or shredded zucchini when cooking the sausage, or add spinach and peas to the pasta water with the broccoli. Extra veggies make Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls even heartier and more colorful!
Can I assemble this ahead of time?
You sure can! Prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the crescent roll topping, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, lay the crescent dough on top and pop it in the oven. It’s a lifesaver on busy nights or when entertaining.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for that magical, comforting meal to bring everyone to the table, Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls is the answer. It’s easy, satisfying, and playful—the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Don’t wait to share this crowd-pleaser; your taste buds (and your happy eaters) will thank you!
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Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this comforting Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta baked to perfection with a buttery crescent roll topping. A delightful combination of flavors and textures that make for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 2 cups small broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent rolls
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta: in salted boiling water until al dente. Add broccoli in the last 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the sausage: in a skillet until browned. Remove excess grease.
- Make the sauce: melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk. Stir in cheeses, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add pasta, broccoli, and sausage to the cheese sauce, mix well.
- Bake: Transfer mixture to a baking dish, top with crescent dough triangles, and bake for 15–20 minutes until golden.
Notes
- You can use pre-steamed broccoli or microwave frozen broccoli to save time.
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor.
- For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 casserole
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 810mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
