Name: Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole: 8 Reasons to Indulge
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: PT-490463H47M7S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6–8 croissants, day-old or fresh, cut into 1–2 inch pieces; 8 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked breakfast sausage or ham, optional; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning, optional; Optional toppings: chopped green onions, additional cheese, or cooked bacon

Introduction

Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a rich, indulgent dish that transforms your mornings into a delightful experience. Perfect for busy weekdays or special brunches, this casserole features fluffy croissants, eggs, and cheese, combined with savory fillings. It bakes into a golden, custardy delight that will make your taste buds sing. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious breakfast treat!

Why You’ll Love This Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

This Overnight Croissant Casserole offers so much more than a standard breakfast. Here are a few reasons why this dish is a must-try:

It’s a make-ahead meal, freeing up your time in the morning.
Fluffy croissants create a unique texture that’s simply irresistible.
You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it versatile.
It’s perfect for a crowd, yielding about eight generous servings.
This casserole is ideal for both sweet and savory palates.
It pairs well with fresh fruits, coffee, or even mimosas for a festive brunch.

With its American cuisine roots and vegetarian options, you can easily adapt it to suit your dietary needs or preferences.

Ingredients for Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Gather these items:

6–8 croissants, day-old or fresh, cut into 1–2 inch pieces
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked breakfast sausage or ham, optional
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning, optional
Optional toppings: chopped green onions, additional cheese, or cooked bacon

How to Make Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange croissant pieces evenly.
Step 2: Sprinkle cooked sausage or ham over the croissants, if using.
Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and optional herbs.
Step 4: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants and meat.
Step 5: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover with foil.
Step 6: Refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to allow the croissants to soak in the custard.
Step 7: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for 25–30 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and custard is set.
Step 8: Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with green onions or extra toppings if desired.

Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole: 8 Reasons to Indulge - Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Using day-old croissants enhances the texture and flavor.
Covering the dish while baking helps the casserole cook evenly.
Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and add more veggies.

Best Ways to Serve Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Here are some serving ideas:

Serve with a side of fresh fruit to balance the richness of the casserole.
Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing mimosa for brunch.
Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or avocado for extra creaminess.

How to Store and Reheat Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Use the final Step 8: from the instructions for guidance. Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm it in the oven for about 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This makes it perfect for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole?

The key to a perfect Overnight Croissant Casserole is allowing the croissants to soak in the custard overnight. This helps them absorb all the rich flavors and results in a wonderfully moist dish.

Can I make Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, this casserole is designed for make-ahead convenience. You can prepare it the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole?

Avoid using fresh croissants that are too soft, as they may not hold up during soaking. Also, ensure that you bake it long enough for the custard to set properly.

Variations of Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole You Can Try

Here are some fun twists:

Replace croissants with brioche for a sweeter flavor.
Add sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a veggie-packed version.
Incorporate different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a gourmet touch.
Make it festive by adding cranberries and walnuts for a holiday theme.

For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out our Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole or try our Blueberry Breakfast Cake. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss our Irresistible Orange Zest Cranberry recipe!