If you have a craving for something comforting but want to shake up your usual dinner routine, this Crescent Lasagna Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine all the cheesy, meaty goodness of traditional lasagna wrapped up in buttery, flaky crescent roll dough. It bakes into a golden, pull-apart masterpiece that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. Every bite gives you layers of savory sausage, creamy cottage cheese, melty mozzarella, and tangy parmesan nestled inside that crispy dough—seriously, it’s lasagna like you’ve never experienced before!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crescent Lasagna Recipe relies on simple, everyday ingredients that pack a punch when combined. Each component plays a crucial role, from providing rich flavor and creamy textures to adding that perfect golden crust and savory seasoning you’ll want to savor again and again.
- 1 lb sausage: Choose your favorite Italian sausage for a hearty, well-seasoned meat base that adds depth and spice.
- 1 (8-oz) can tomato sauce: Provides a tangy, slightly sweet sauce that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that bring classic Italian flavor notes to your meat sauce.
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic: Adds a fragrant punch of aroma and taste that makes the sauce irresistible.
- 1½ cups cottage cheese: Offers a creamy, light contrast that keeps the dish smooth and rich without heaviness.
- 1 large egg: Binds the cottage cheese mixture perfectly for that authentic lasagna creaminess.
- 2 tsp parsley: Gives a fresh herbal lift and brightens the flavor of the cheese filling.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese (divided): Brings a sharp, nutty tang that complements the creamy and meaty layers.
- 12 slices mozzarella cheese: Essential for that gooey, melty cheese pull that makes lasagna so beloved.
- 2 (8-oz) cans crescent roll sheets: The star of the show, forming a buttery, flaky crust that encloses all the goodness.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil: Used to brush the top, helping the crescent dough develop its luscious golden color.
How to Make Crescent Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Meat Sauce
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and giving your baking dish a good spray with nonstick cooking spray so the crescent dough won’t stick. Then, brown the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s nicely cooked and crumbly. Drain off any excess grease to keep things from getting too oily. Next, add the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic right into the pan with the sausage. Season it with salt and black pepper to your liking. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes to marry those flavors beautifully, then remove it from the heat and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling
While the sauce simmers, whisk together the cottage cheese, egg, and dried parsley flakes in a small bowl. This mixture will bring that creamy, cheesy comfort to your lasagna and help bind everything inside the flaky dough shell.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Press one can of crescent roll dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. This forms that gorgeous crust that holds all the lasagna fillings. Next, get ready to layer: start with six slices of mozzarella cheese, which melt perfectly to give you that classic cheesy texture. Spoon half of the meat sauce over the cheese, then sprinkle half of the parmesan cheese. Spread the cottage cheese mixture over this layer, followed by the remaining meat sauce. Add the remaining six mozzarella slices on top before sealing it all in with the second can of crescent roll dough. Don’t forget to press the edges well so none of the delicious filling escapes during baking.
Step 4: Final Touches and Baking
Brush the top of your crescent dough with a little olive oil; this step ensures it bakes up shiny and golden brown. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful finish. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is deep golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Once out of the oven, let your Crescent Lasagna Recipe cool for a few minutes before slicing so that each piece stays intact and ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Crescent Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over each slice just before serving to add a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness. For an added kick, a drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
This crescent-wrapped lasagna pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini are also fantastic side choices that add freshness and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve Crescent Lasagna Recipe in individual ramekins or small baking dishes for personalized portions. You can also turn this into handheld servings by cutting it into squares or rectangles and letting guests enjoy it as a hearty grab-and-go treat at parties or casual dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, wrap leftover Crescent Lasagna Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days—perfect for easy reheating and enjoying later.
Freezing
Crescent Lasagna freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole dish tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 2 months without losing any of that incredible flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge if frozen, then heat in a 350ºF oven until warmed through and crispy again, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave leftovers for a quicker option, but reheating in the oven will help maintain that flaky crescent roll crust.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of sausage?
Absolutely! Ground beef works well and will give you a milder flavor. If you want to keep some Italian seasoning punch, just add a bit more Italian seasoning and garlic to the meat while cooking.
Is it okay to substitute ricotta for cottage cheese?
Yes, ricotta can be used if you prefer a creamier, smoother texture in the cheese layer. Cottage cheese lends a bit more texture, but both taste fantastic in this Crescent Lasagna Recipe.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Definitely. Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a vegetable-packed version. Add extra herbs and spices to keep the layers flavorful and satisfying.
What if I don’t have crescent roll sheets?
You can use pre-made pizza dough or puff pastry as a substitute, though the texture will differ slightly. Crescent rolls give that iconic flaky and buttery crust that’s so key to this recipe.
How spicy is this Crescent Lasagna Recipe?
The spice level depends largely on the sausage you choose. If you prefer milder food, go for mild Italian sausage or adjust the seasoning to your taste. For a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner that feels special and satisfies a crowd, the Crescent Lasagna Recipe should be your new go-to. With its effortless assembly, crowd-pleasing flavors, and that unique crescent roll twist, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a cherished favorite. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how lasagna ever tasted any other way!
Print
Crescent Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Crescent Lasagna is a creative and easy twist on the classic Italian dish, using crescent roll dough as a quick and flaky pasta substitute. Filled with savory Italian sausage, tomato sauce, creamy cottage cheese, and layers of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this dish bakes into a golden, bubbling casserole perfect for a comforting family dinner served in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 (8-oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 1½ cups cottage cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp dried parsley flakes
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, divided
- 12 slices mozzarella cheese
Dough and Topping
- 2 (8-oz) cans crescent roll sheets
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Sausage and Sauce: In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain excess grease. Add the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper according to taste. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine the cottage cheese, large egg, and dried parsley flakes thoroughly to form a smooth cheese mixture. Set aside.
- Layer the Dough: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, creating a dough base for the lasagna.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Place six slices of mozzarella cheese evenly over the crescent dough layer. Spoon half of the meat sauce evenly on top, then sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the meat. Spread the cottage cheese mixture over the Parmesan layer, followed by the remaining meat sauce. Add another layer of mozzarella slices on top.
- Top with Second Dough Layer: Roll out the second can of crescent roll dough and place it over the assembled layers in the dish. Press the edges of the dough to seal the top and bottom layers together securely.
- Finish and Bake: Brush the surface of the top dough with olive oil to encourage browning, then sprinkle with the remaining grated Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crescent roll topping is deep golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, use turkey sausage and reduced-fat cheeses.
- You can substitute fresh parsley for dried parsley flakes for a brighter flavor.
- Ensure to seal the crescent dough edges well to prevent leaking during baking.
- Letting the lasagna cool slightly before slicing helps maintain the layers and prevents it from falling apart.
- Can be served with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a full meal.
