This Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a warm, comforting dish perfect for lazy mornings! Layers of buttery croissants, eggs, and cheese make it so yummy.
Honestly, who can resist a dish where croissants are the star? I love serving it fresh from the oven, and it always brings smiles to the breakfast table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: These are the heart of the casserole! Fresh butter croissants give it that beautiful flaky texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen ones, but make sure to thaw them first for best results.
Eggs: Use large eggs for this recipe. If you’re avoiding eggs, consider using an egg substitute or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
Whole Milk: Whole milk adds richness. You can swap in almond milk, oat milk, or any dairy-free milk for a lighter option, though it may slightly change the texture.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor! If cheddar isn’t your favorite, feel free to use Monterey Jack, Swiss, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Breakfast Meat: If you want a vegetarian option, just skip the sausage or bacon. You can add sautéed veggies instead, like bell peppers or spinach, for extra flavor.
How Do You Make Sure Your Casserole Is Perfectly Baked?
Baking a casserole can sometimes be tricky, but here are some tips for success:
- Start with preheating the oven to ensure even cooking.
- Press down gently on the croissant layers to let the egg mixture soak in; this avoids a dry center.
- Covering with foil stops the top from browning too quickly. Remove it halfway through to allow a golden edge.
- Keep an eye on the bake time. If the center is still slightly jiggly, give it a few extra minutes in the oven.
These steps will help achieve that fluffy texture while ensuring everything is cooked through. Enjoy your delicious breakfast casserole!
How to Make Croissant Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 large butter croissants, halved
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked breakfast sausage or bacon, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Croissant Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 50 minutes in the oven. So, in total, plan for about an hour and 5 minutes, including baking time. Perfect for a cozy brunch or a special breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for even cooking later on. While the oven is heating, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Croissants:
Next, slice each croissant in half horizontally. Then, cut each half into bite-sized pieces. This will help them soak up all the delicious egg mixture!
3. Layer the Croissants:
Begin arranging half of the croissant pieces in the bottom of your greased baking dish, ensuring they’re spread evenly. If you’re adding meat, sprinkle half of the crumbled sausage or bacon over the croissants at this stage.
4. Add Cheese and More Croissants:
Sprinkle about 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the first layer of croissants and meat. Now, add the remaining croissant pieces on top to create a second layer that’s just as enticing!
5. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until it’s all well blended. This mixture is going to make your casserole fluffy and rich!
6. Pour and Soak:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered croissants in the baking dish. Gently press down on the croissants to help them soak up the egg mixture. There’s nothing like a good soak for maximum flavor!
7. Cheese on Top:
Finish by sprinkling the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer. This will create a cheesy crust when baked!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the middle and the top is golden brown. The heavenly aroma will fill your kitchen!
9. Cool & Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set a bit more. Just before serving, take a moment to garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy this rich, fluffy Croissant Breakfast Casserole with family and friends. It’s perfect for a delightful breakfast or brunch centerpiece!
Can I Use Day-Old Croissants for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Day-old croissants are perfect for this casserole as they’ll soak up the egg mixture even better without becoming too soggy. Just make sure they’re still fresh enough for good flavor!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to reduce the amount of meat accordingly if you’re including veggies!
How Do I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking!
