Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

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An Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate solution for a stress-free morning meal. This delightful dish combines buttery croissants, savory sausage, creamy eggs, and melty cheese into a breakfast that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for weekends, holidays, or any busy morning, this make-ahead casserole allows you to enjoy a leisurely morning without sacrificing flavor or quality.

The croissant, originally a French pastry, brings a unique flaky texture and rich buttery flavor to the casserole. Combined with the savory elements of sausage and cheese, this breakfast dish offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and convenience; assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning for a hot, homemade breakfast with minimal effort.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply preparing for a busy weekday morning, this Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a must-try. It’s customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients, and guarantees a delicious start to your day.

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe 

  1. Convenience: Assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
  2. Flavorful: The combination of buttery croissants, savory sausage, and melty cheese creates a rich and satisfying dish.
  3. Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients, such as vegetables, different cheeses, or alternate meats, to make it your own.
  4. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a large group, this casserole is ideal for family gatherings, holiday breakfasts, and brunches.
  5. Make-Ahead: Preparing the dish ahead of time means you can enjoy a stress-free morning with a hot, delicious meal ready to go.
  6. Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors and textures make this casserole a hit with both kids and adults.
  7. Versatile: Serve it for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.
  8. Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the eggs and sausage, this casserole provides a hearty start to your day.

Ingredients:

  • 6 large croissants, cut into pieces
  • 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions & Instructions 

  1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9Ă—13-inch baking dish. Place the croissant pieces evenly in the dish.
  2. Add Sausage and Cheese: Sprinkle the cooked sausage and shredded cheese over the croissants.
  3. Make the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture over the croissant, sausage, and cheese layers, pressing down gently to ensure the croissants soak up the liquid.
  5. Refrigerate: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 2 hours.
  6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven heats. Bake, uncovered, for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
  7. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information 

Here is the nutritional breakdown for one serving of Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole (based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Protein: 21g
  • Fat: 29g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Potassium: 350mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Vitamin A: 20% DV
  • Vitamin C: 2% DV
  • Calcium: 25% DV
  • Iron: 15% DV

This casserole offers a balanced meal with a good amount of protein and fats to keep you energized throughout the morning.

Variations

  • Vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with sautĂ©ed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms.
  • Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a kick of heat.
  • Different Cheeses: Try using Swiss, Gruyère, or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I use store-bought croissants? Yes, store-bought croissants work perfectly for this recipe. Just ensure they are fresh and of good quality.

What can I use instead of sausage? You can substitute sausage with cooked bacon, turkey sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative.

Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, you can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) casserole. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Pro Tips By Elisa

  • Layer Evenly: Ensure the croissant, sausage, and cheese layers are evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.
  • Custard Soak: Allowing the croissants to soak in the egg mixture overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
  • Serve Warm: This casserole tastes best when served warm, fresh out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole with a side of fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal. A hot cup of coffee or a glass of orange juice pairs perfectly with this savory dish, making it an ideal choice for a leisurely breakfast or brunch.