Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole Bake

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This Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole Bake is a delightful way to start your morning with minimal effort. Featuring buttery croissants, a creamy egg mixture, and your favorite breakfast add-ins, this dish is a crowd-pleaser perfect for holidays, brunches, or any special occasion. Prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning for a stress-free meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for early mornings or busy days.
  • Customizable flavors: Add your favorite proteins, cheeses, or veggies.
  • Rich and hearty: Buttery croissants soaked in a savory egg custard create a luxurious texture.
  • Great for gatherings: Feeds a crowd with ease.
  • Minimal morning prep: Simply bake and serve.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Day-old croissants
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Heavy cream
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Breakfast sausage, bacon, or ham
  • Salt and pepper
  • Optional: diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach

Directions

this recipe
  1. Grease a large baking dish. Tear croissants into pieces and place them evenly in the dish.
  2. Cook your breakfast sausage or bacon until browned, and crumble or chop into small pieces.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
  4. Layer your cooked sausage, bacon, or ham over the croissants, followed by shredded cheese and optional vegetables.
  5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish.
  6. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight.
  7. In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
  8. Bake uncovered for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set.
  9. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 8-10
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: Overnight (8-12 hours)
  • Cook Time: 40-50 minutes

Variations

  • Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and load up on veggies like mushrooms, spinach, and tomatoes.
  • Cheese lovers: Use a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
  • Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for some heat.
  • Sweet option: Swap savory ingredients for cream cheese, fresh berries, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh croissants instead of day-old croissants?

Yes, but day-old croissants absorb the egg mixture better, giving the dish a more cohesive texture.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the milk and cream with non-dairy options like almond milk and coconut cream, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

4. What other meats can I use?

You can try cooked and crumbled chorizo, diced chicken, or turkey sausage.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute gluten-free croissants or bread.

6. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when the top is golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Can I use pre-cooked bacon or sausage?

Yes, pre-cooked meats work great and save time during preparation.

8. What sides pair well with this casserole?

Serve it with a fresh fruit salad, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad.

9. Can I add fresh herbs?

Definitely! Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill add extra flavor.

10. How long should the casserole sit before serving?

Let it rest for about 5 minutes after baking to allow it to set and make slicing easier.

Conclusion

This Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole Bake is a delicious and versatile recipe that makes mornings easier and tastier. Whether you’re hosting brunch or preparing a holiday breakfast, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Try it today and enjoy a hassle-free, mouthwatering meal!

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Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole Bake

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This Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole Bake is a rich and savory dish perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Flaky croissants are layered with eggs, cheese, sausage, and spices, then soaked overnight for maximum flavor. It’s an easy make-ahead dish that guarantees a delicious, stress-free morning!

  • Author: ksuur
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Breakfast, Brunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large croissants, torn into chunks
  • 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and place the torn croissant pieces evenly across the bottom.
  2. Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the croissants, followed by the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant and sausage layers, pressing down gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.
  5. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight (at least 6 hours).
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.
  7. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set in the center.
  8. Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with green onions, if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Feel free to substitute the sausage with cooked bacon or ham for variety.
  • Add a handful of spinach or diced bell peppers for extra vegetables.
  • This casserole freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

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