Description
This overnight croissant breakfast casserole is a rich and fluffy dish perfect for stress-free mornings. Buttery croissants soak up a savory egg custard mixture for an easy make-ahead brunch that can include cheese and optional meats or vegetables, delivering a warm and comforting breakfast.
Ingredients
Base
- 4 large croissants, torn into chunks
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1½ cups milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Add-ins
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère)
- Optional: cooked bacon, sausage, or vegetables (quantity to preference)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and place the torn croissant pieces evenly across the bottom, ensuring good coverage for the casserole base.
- Add Cheese and Optional Ingredients: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the croissants. Add any optional cooked bacon, sausage, or vegetables on top of the cheese for added flavor and texture.
- Mix Egg Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until fully combined into a smooth custard mixture.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Pour the egg custard evenly over the croissants, allowing the bread to soak up the liquid mixture fully.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 8 hours, to let the croissants absorb the egg mixture.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the fridge and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the casserole to firm up slightly for easier serving.
Notes
- This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead for convenience.
- Serve with fresh fruit or a side salad to complete the brunch meal.
- Optional add-ins such as cooked bacon, sausage, or vegetables can be tailored to taste and dietary preferences.
- Use day-old croissants if possible for better texture absorption.
- Ensure the egg mixture covers all croissant pieces to prevent dryness during baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
