If you’re craving a meal that’s warm, comforting, and full of bold flavors, the Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls Recipe will quickly become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Imagine tender pasta tossed with savory Italian sausage and crisp-tender broccoli, all bathed in a velvety, cheesy sauce that brings pure satisfaction. Paired perfectly with golden, buttery crescent rolls, this dish is a hearty all-in-one dinner that pleases both kids and adults alike. It’s simple enough for busy nights but feels deliciously indulgent every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of simple ingredients packs incredible flavor and texture into this recipe. Each component plays its part, from the rich sausage and fresh broccoli to the creamy cheeses and flaky crescent rolls, creating a balanced and irresistible dish.
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta: These shapes hold the cheese sauce perfectly, giving every bite great texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness to sauté the sausage evenly.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): Brings bold and savory flavor that’s the heart of this recipe.
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen): Add freshness and a nutritious crunch to the creamy pasta.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates the base for the luscious cheese sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to creamy perfection.
- 2 cups milk: The creamy liquid that brings the sauce together smoothly.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a gentle garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle depth to the sauce’s flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the wonderful flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers just enough bite to balance the richness.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts smoothly to produce that classic cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty sharpness to deepen the sauce’s flavor.
- 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough: Golden, flaky crescent rolls are the perfect sidekick to this hearty pasta.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing): Ensures that crescent rolls bake up shiny and irresistibly buttery.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a pop of color.
How to Make Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you need it. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente, which means tender yet still firm to the bite. Add the broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking time so they become perfectly tender but retain a nice snap. Drain everything well and set aside. This step is key for layering in fresh veggie flavor and keeping the broccoli bright and green.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and crumble in the Italian sausage. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks to ensure even browning and full flavor development. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink and has a lovely caramelized crust, then remove it from the pan and set aside. This browned sausage forms the savory foundation for the entire dish.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux, cooking it for about one minute to get rid of any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly, which helps the sauce thicken beautifully without lumps. It should take about three to five minutes to reach a creamy consistency. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until they melt into the sauce, making it rich, velvety, and packed with flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Return the browned sausage to your skillet and add the drained pasta and broccoli, tossing everything together in the cheesy sauce so every piece is evenly coated. Transfer this delicious mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Unroll the crescent dough and shape the rolls as you like — place them along the edges of the casserole or bake them separately on a sheet. Brush the crescent rolls generously with melted butter to develop a golden, shiny crust. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the rolls are beautifully golden and the pasta bake is bubbling hot. Let it cool just slightly before serving so the flavors settle and everyone can dig in happily.
How to Serve Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh final touch, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley. This bright green garnish not only looks inviting but also adds a mild herbal note that contrasts wonderfully with the rich cheese sauce.
Side Dishes
This recipe is a true all-in-one meal, but if you want to round it out, consider a crisp side salad or steamed green beans. Something light and simple complements the richness perfectly without stealing the spotlight from the star dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins topped with a crescent roll twist for a fun presentation that’s perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings. You could also sprinkle extra Parmesan on top before baking for a crunchy cheesy crust that’s irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. This allows you to enjoy the comfort of this meal again without any hassle.
Freezing
You can freeze the pasta bake (without the crescent rolls) for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before wrapping tightly in foil and placing it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze crescent rolls separately to keep them fresh and flaky.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps maintain the creamy texture better than a microwave. Reheat crescent rolls separately in the oven to preserve their buttery crispness. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts to avoid drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Using turkey sausage is a great way to make the dish leaner without sacrificing flavor. It’s a tasty swap that pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese sauce.
Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly and is super convenient. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to avoid extra moisture in the dish.
Can I substitute crescent rolls with something else?
If you’re not a fan of crescent rolls, puff pastry or biscuit dough can be used as alternatives. They will provide a different texture but still complement the cheesy sausage and broccoli pasta beautifully.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
Sharp cheddar and Parmesan are the ideal combo for their melting qualities and flavor depth. However, swapping cheddar for mozzarella will make it milder and creamier if you prefer.
Can I add extra vegetables to the pasta bake?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach to boost the veggie content and add new layers of flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls Recipe is genuinely one of those crowd-pleasers that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple, comforting, and loaded with textures and flavors that satisfy every craving. I can’t recommend it enough for busy families or anyone who wants a hearty, delicious meal without fuss. Go ahead and try this recipe – your dinner table will thank you!
Print
Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta with Crescent Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This cheesy sausage and broccoli pasta with crescent rolls is a hearty, all-in-one meal combining savory Italian sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce tossed with pasta and served with warm, buttery crescent rolls. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a family-friendly dinner that’s easy to prepare and delightfully comforting.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Meat
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Crescent Rolls
- 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking to steam them tender. Drain both and set aside.
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Season and Add Cheese: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta, Sausage, Broccoli, and Sauce: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, add the drained pasta and broccoli, and toss all together to generously coat everything with the cheesy sauce.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Unroll the crescent roll dough and shape into crescents. Arrange the rolls either along the edges of the baking dish or separately on a baking sheet. Brush the crescent rolls with melted butter to ensure a golden finish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish (and crescent rolls if on a separate sheet) in the preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the pasta is bubbly and hot throughout.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm for a comforting, all-in-one meal.
Notes
- Use turkey sausage for a leaner protein option.
- Add red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce if a spicy kick is desired.
- Swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella for a milder, creamier flavor profile.
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it well before adding to the pasta to prevent excess water in the dish.
