Description
A delicious and comforting Apple Cheddar Crescent Casserole combining the sweetness of caramelized Granny Smith apples with sharp cheddar cheese and flaky crescent dough, baked to golden perfection for a perfect brunch or breakfast dish.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Apple Mixture
- 1 Tbsp. unsalted butter, plus more for pan
- 1 large Granny Smith apple, cored, finely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves, divided
- 3/4 tsp. ground fresh nutmeg, divided
Egg Mixture
- 7 large eggs
- 1 2/3 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
Assembly
- 1 (8-oz.) can Pillsbury Crescent Rounds
- 8 oz. sharp orange cheddar, shredded (about 1 1/2 cups), divided
- 1 Tbsp. honey (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease an 8″ x 8″ stainless steel pan generously with butter to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Cook apples: In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the finely chopped Granny Smith apple and cook, stirring frequently, for about 4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Season and caramelize apples: Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Continue cooking the apples, stirring often, for about 4 more minutes until they are slightly browned and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Make egg mixture and layer casserole: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 7 eggs, whole milk, kosher salt, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg. Tear half of the crescent rolls into pieces about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in size and arrange them evenly on the bottom of the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and half of the cooked apple mixture on top. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers. Tear the remaining crescent roll pieces and arrange them over the egg mixture, then top with the remaining cheese and apples.
- Bake and finish: Bake the casserole for 35 to 40 minutes, until it is golden brown, puffy, and set in the center. Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before sprinkling with the remaining 1 3/4 teaspoons of fresh thyme leaves. Drizzle with honey if desired for added sweetness.
Notes
- Use sharp orange cheddar for the best flavor contrast with the tart apples.
- Allow the cooked apples to cool slightly before assembling to prevent overcooking the crescent dough.
- Honey is optional but adds a nice natural sweetness that complements the savory elements perfectly.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cheese.
- Ensure the crescent rolls are torn into 1 to 1 1/2 inch pieces for even layering and baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
