This Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a warm and fluffy dish that combines buttery croissants, eggs, and cheese for a delightful morning treat. It’s super easy to put together!
I love making this on weekends when I want a cozy brunch without too much fuss. Plus, who can resist that flaky croissant goodness? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Day-old croissants work best as they hold up better in the egg mixture without getting too soggy. If you don’t have croissants, you can use other pastries or even day-old bread like brioche or French bread for a different texture.
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for fluffiness. You can use egg whites if you’re looking to cut back on cholesterol, but it may affect the rich flavor.
Milk: Whole milk makes the dish creamy, but half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk alternative can also be used. Just be mindful of the flavor; some non-dairy options can change the taste slightly.
Cheese: Cheddar is a favorite, but feel free to experiment! Swiss, mozzarella, or a pepper jack blend adds great flavor. Use dairy-free cheese if you’re going vegan.
Sausage or Bacon: Cooked breakfast sausage gives a meaty taste. Turkey sausage or plant-based sausage also works if you want a lighter or vegetarian option.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole Isn’t Soggy?
A common issue with breakfast casseroles is sogginess, especially from the croissants soaking up the egg too much. Here are some tips:
- Use day-old croissants; they’ll absorb the egg mixture without falling apart.
- Don’t skip the step of letting the casserole sit before baking to allow the croissants to soak without overdoing it.
- Cover the casserole with foil for the first half of baking to steam it, then uncover it to let the top crisp up.
These steps help maintain a nice balance, ensuring your casserole is fluffy yet holds together well when served!
How to Make a Delicious Croissant Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 6 large croissants (preferably day-old)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Fillings:
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage or bacon, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Butter or cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 45 minutes to bake, making it a wonderful dish for a leisurely weekend breakfast. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour for a delicious homemade breakfast that serves a crowd!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare Your Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it well with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the Croissants:
Take your day-old croissants and slice them in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves evenly in the baking dish, arranging them nicely so they fit well and cover the bottom.
3. Add the Meat Layer:
Sprinkle the chopped cooked sausage or bacon evenly over the croissant halves. This will add a wonderful savory flavor to your casserole.
4. Cheese It Up:
Now, generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the meat layer. This will help bind everything together once it’s all baked!
5. Top with Croissant Halves:
Gently place the top halves of the croissants on top of the cheese layer. Don’t worry if they don’t fit perfectly; just press them down lightly to make sure they soak in the egg mixture.
6. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or half-and-half), salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until it’s all blended together nicely.
7. Pour It All Together:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered croissants and fillings. Give it a moment for the croissants to soak up some of that creamy goodness.
8. Enhance with Parmesan:
If you’re using it, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for that extra cheesy touch.
9. Bake It!
Cover the baking dish with foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After that time, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the casserole is set in the center and the top is golden brown and delicious.
10. Cool & Serve:
Once it’s done baking, let the casserole stand for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps it to hold its shape. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch, and serve warm.
This Croissant Breakfast Casserole is perfect for any brunch occasion or a cozy family breakfast, and it’s sure to impress with its layers of flavor and texture. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Croissants Instead of Day-Old?
Yes, you can use fresh croissants, but they may become a bit soggy as they absorb more of the egg mixture. If using fresh croissants, consider toasting them lightly before layering to help maintain their structure.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Can I Substitute the Meat with a Vegetarian Option?
Yes! Feel free to replace the sausage or bacon with vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version. You can also use plant-based sausage for a healthier alternative.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal!