Crescent Lasagna
Crescent Lasagna is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, combining the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with the flaky goodness of crescent roll dough. It’s the perfect dish for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or whenever you crave something warm and cheesy. This recipe offers a simpler, quicker alternative to classic lasagna while maintaining all the delicious flavors that make it a family favorite. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish!
Why It Deserves a Spot
Crescent Lasagna deserves a special place in your recipe repertoire for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, different types of cheese, or even swap out the meat for a vegetarian option. Second, it’s a time-saver, as the crescent roll sheets eliminate the need for boiling pasta, making preparation a breeze. Lastly, it’s a one-pan meal that combines protein, dairy, and carbs into a satisfying dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredient Checklist
- 1 lb sausage – Use your choice of ground sausage, whether mild or spicy, for flavor.
- 1 (8-oz) can tomato sauce – This adds the necessary moisture and tomato flavor.
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that gives the dish its Italian flair.
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic – Fresh or jarred, it enhances the overall taste.
- 1 cup cottage cheese – Provides a creamy texture and protein boost.
- 1 large egg – Binds the cottage cheese mixture.
- 2 tsp parsley – Fresh or dried, for garnish and flavor.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, divided – For richness and umami in the filling and topping.
- 12 slices mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully on top.
- 2 (8-oz) cans crescent roll sheets – The star of the show, providing a flaky crust.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil – For cooking the sausage.
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Large skillet – For browning the sausage and combining the filling ingredients.
- Baking dish (9×13 inch) – To assemble and bake the lasagna.
- Mixing bowl – For combining the cottage cheese filling.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – For stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
Crescent Lasagna Cooking Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Crescent Lasagna bakes evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the 1 lb of sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Sauce and Seasoning
To the browned sausage, stir in the can of tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of cottage cheese, 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons of parsley, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, roll out one can of crescent roll sheets to cover the bottom. Pinch seams together to create a solid crust. Layer half of the sausage mixture over the dough, followed by half of the cottage cheese mixture. Top with 6 slices of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining sausage mixture and mozzarella.
Step 6: Top and Bake
Roll out the second can of crescent roll sheets and lay it over the top, pinching seams together. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the Crescent Lasagna from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This resting period will make slicing easier. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Smart Substitutions
- Ground turkey or chicken – A leaner alternative to sausage.
- Ricotta cheese – Can be used in place of cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
- Spinach or kale – Add to the filling for added nutrition.
- Gluten-free crescent rolls – Substitute for a gluten-free option.
Avoid These Mistakes
To ensure your Crescent Lasagna turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the layers set.
- Be sure to pinch the seams of the crescent rolls tightly to prevent leakage.
- Don’t overcook the sausage; it should be browned, not burnt.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and meltability.
Best Ways to Store
Storing your Crescent Lasagna properly will help maintain its flavor and texture:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Ask the Chef
Can I make Crescent Lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just increase the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I serve with Crescent Lasagna?
Pair it with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. The refreshing greens balance the richness of the lasagna beautifully.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Cheddar, gouda, or provolone would all work wonderfully in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
The Takeaway
Crescent Lasagna is not only a fun and creative take on a classic dish, but it also brings together the flavors of Italy in a simple, satisfying way. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. With its layers of savory sausage, creamy cheeses, and flaky crescent dough, this recipe is bound to impress. Don’t forget to customize it to your taste and experiment with different ingredients. Happy cooking!
Crescent Lasagna
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the 1 lb of sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- To the browned sausage, stir in the can of tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of cottage cheese, 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons of parsley, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, roll out one can of crescent roll sheets to cover the bottom. Pinch seams together to create a solid crust. Layer half of the sausage mixture over the dough, followed by half of the cottage cheese mixture. Top with 6 slices of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining sausage mixture and mozzarella.
- Roll out the second can of crescent roll sheets and lay it over the top, pinching seams together. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove the Crescent Lasagna from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C).
