Save This fluffy homemade breakfast roll recipe has transformed my weekend mornings from ordinary to extraordinary. The combination of savory sausage and melted cheese wrapped in soft, pillowy dough creates the perfect handheld breakfast that satisfies the entire family.
I first created these rolls when hosting a holiday brunch for extended family. The aroma of freshly baked bread and sizzling sausage brought everyone to the kitchen before they were even out of the oven. Now they're requested at every family gathering.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: creates the perfect tender yet sturdy base for these rolls
- Instant yeast: ensures quick rising time without extra proofing steps
- Breakfast sausage: provides rich savory flavor use quality pork sausage for best results
- Combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese: offers both sharp flavor and perfect meltability
- Chives: add a subtle onion flavor that brightens the entire roll
- Egg wash: gives the rolls their beautiful golden brown exterior
Instructions
- Prepare the dough:
- Combine flour, sugar, yeast and salt in a large bowl, creating a well in the center. Pour in warm milk (about 110°F, warm to touch but not hot), melted butter, and egg. Mix thoroughly until a sticky dough forms, making sure no dry spots remain. This creates the foundation for perfectly soft rolls.
- Knead to perfection:
- Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic, bouncing back slightly when pressed with a finger. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to coat, then cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow to rise in a warm spot (around 75°F) for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Prepare the filling:
- While the dough rises, cook breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break apart with a wooden spoon until crumbly and evenly browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat by transferring to a paper towel lined plate and allow to cool completely before using. This prevents the hot sausage from melting the cheese prematurely or making the dough soggy.
- Shape the rolls:
- Punch down risen dough to release air bubbles and roll out on a lightly floured surface to a 12x8 inch rectangle, keeping thickness as even as possible. Distribute cooled sausage evenly across the surface, leaving a half inch border along one long edge. Sprinkle with both cheeses, chives if using, and a light dusting of freshly ground black pepper.
- Roll and slice:
- Starting with the long edge that has filling all the way to the edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape, pinching the seam to seal. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice into 8 equal portions. Place cut side up on a parchment lined baking sheet, allowing some space between each roll for expansion.
- Bake to golden perfection:
- Brush the tops with beaten egg wash for a glossy finish, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes until deeply golden brown. The internal temperature should reach about 190°F when tested with an instant read thermometer. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.
Save The breakfast sausage is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I discovered that using a high quality pork sausage with hints of sage and maple creates an incredible depth of flavor that elevates these simple rolls to something truly special. My husband claims these rolls saved our Sunday mornings when we had newborn twins and needed quick, handheld breakfast options.
Make Ahead Instructions
These breakfast rolls are perfect for busy mornings when you need something substantial but lack time. Prepare the rolls completely through slicing, then place them on a parchment lined baking sheet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove from refrigerator and allow to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes while the oven preheats. Apply egg wash just before baking and continue with the recipe as written. The flavor actually improves with this method as the filling ingredients have time to meld together.
Ingredient Substitutions
No breakfast sausage available? Italian sausage works beautifully in these rolls, adding a nice hint of fennel and herbs. For a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage creates a leaner breakfast roll with less fat but still plenty of protein. Vegetarians can substitute plant based sausage crumbles or even a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and onions for a meaty texture without the meat. The cheese can be customized based on your preferences—pepper jack adds a nice kick, while Swiss offers a more subtle nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These sausage and cheese breakfast rolls shine as the centerpiece of a complete breakfast spread. Pair them with fresh fruit for a sweet contrast to the savory rolls. A simple green salad dressed with light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness. For a special brunch, serve alongside a light soup like tomato bisque or creamy potato for dipping. These rolls also make excellent grab and go breakfasts for busy weekday mornings—simply reheat in the microwave for 20 seconds or wrap in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.
Storage Tips
Store completely cooled rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer safe bag with the air pressed out. Label with the date and use within 2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. To restore that fresh baked texture, wrap rolls in foil and heat in a 325°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through. A quick 8 second spritz with water before reheating helps revive the soft texture.
Save These impressive breakfast rolls are perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch. They are best served warm and fresh from the oven.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar and mozzarella with your favorite melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
- → Is it possible to prepare the dough ahead?
Absolutely. Prepare the dough, let it rise, then refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temperature before assembling the rolls.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. Reheat before serving.
- → Can I make these meat-free?
Yes, use vegetarian sausage or skip sausage entirely and add more vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for a flavorful meatless version.
- → What sides pair well with these rolls?
Fresh fruit, a green salad, or scrambled eggs make excellent accompaniments for a balanced breakfast or brunch.