Irresistible Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This overnight croissant breakfast casserole is a savory, satisfying way to start your day. Combining flaky croissants, flavorful sausage, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s a comforting dish you can prepare the night before for an easy morning meal.

Ingredients

• 5 large croissants (preferably a day or two old), torn into large chunks
• 1 pound (450g) ground sausage, cooked and drained
• 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups (475ml) whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Step 2: Layer the torn croissants evenly in the dish.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the croissants.
4. Step 4: Add the shredded cheese, spreading it evenly.
5. Step 5: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully combined.
6. Step 6: Pour the egg mixture slowly over the croissant mixture, making sure to cover all the pieces.
7. Step 7: Gently press down the croissants with a spatula so they absorb the liquid.
8. Step 8: Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 6 hours).
9. Step 9: The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
10. Step 10: Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until golden brown on top and set in the center.
11. Step 11: Let it cool for 10 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old croissants for better texture as they soak up the custard without falling apart.
• Swap sausage for cooked bacon or ham for a different flavor.
• Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Try mixing in different cheeses such as Gruyère or mozzarella for variety.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. This casserole also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh croissants instead of day-old ones?

Fresh croissants may become too soggy after soaking overnight. Day-old or slightly stale croissants hold up better and absorb the custard without becoming mushy.

Can I prepare this casserole on the same day I want to serve it?

While it’s best when soaked overnight, you can let it sit for at least 6 hours if short on time. Just be sure to give the croissants enough time to absorb the egg mixture for the best texture.

Irresistible Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 150 reviews

This Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a savory and indulgent breakfast bake featuring tender croissant chunks, savory cooked sausage, and melted cheddar cheese, all soaked in a flavorful egg and milk mixture. Prepared the night before and baked in the morning, it offers a hassle-free, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for brunch or family breakfasts.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 6 hours 60 minutes (includes overnight refrigeration)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 5 large croissants (preferably a day or two old), torn into large chunks

Meat

• 1 pound (450g) ground sausage, cooked and drained

Cheese

• 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese

Egg Mixture

• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups (475ml) whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Garnish

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Layer Croissants: Evenly distribute the torn croissant chunks in the prepared baking dish, forming the base layer of the casserole.
3. Add Sausage: Sprinkle the cooked and drained ground sausage evenly over the croissants to provide a savory flavor throughout the dish.
4. Add Cheese: Spread the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the sausage layer to add a creamy, melted texture when baked.
5. Combine Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully combined to create the custard for the casserole.
6. Pour Over Layers: Slowly pour the egg mixture over the croissants, sausage, and cheese in the baking dish, making sure to cover all the pieces thoroughly.
7. Press Down: Gently press the croissants and toppings down with a spatula to help them absorb the egg mixture uniformly.
8. Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours to let the croissants soak up the custard fully.
9. Bake: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil and bake the casserole uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is fully set.
10. Cool and Garnish: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes post-baking, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm for a delicious breakfast experience.

Notes

• Using day-old croissants allows them to better absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
• Cook and drain the sausage well to avoid excess grease pooling in the casserole.
• The casserole can be customized by substituting the cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or Swiss.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
• This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated overnight to save time in the morning.
• Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

Keywords: overnight breakfast casserole, croissant casserole, breakfast bake, sausage breakfast, cheesy breakfast casserole, make-ahead breakfast, brunch recipe