There is nothing quite like waking up to a warm, rich, and utterly indulgent breakfast that feels like a special occasion every day. This Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe brings together buttery croissants, savory meat, gooey cheese, and a creamy custard for a crowd-pleasing dish that will win hearts and appetites alike. It’s the perfect combination of flaky, cheesy, and comforting, great for a weekend brunch or holiday morning when you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe plays a key role, from the flaky croissants that soak up the custard to the savory bacon and melty cheese that add flavor and texture. It’s a simple yet thoughtful lineup that builds layers of deliciousness in every bite.
- 5–6 large croissants (day-old preferred): Stale croissants work best as they soak up the egg mixture without becoming mushy.
- 1 cup cooked bacon or sausage (crumbled): Adds satisfying savory, smoky flavor and a bit of protein.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a rich, tangy bite that melts beautifully.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella adds gooey, stretchy creaminess.
- 6 large eggs: The custard base that holds everything together with fluffy texture.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Adds richness and moisture for a tender custard.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Boosts creaminess and gives a luscious mouthfeel.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A subtle tang that enhances flavor depth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides gentle aromatic warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and complexity.
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley (for garnish, optional): Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and a pop of color.
How to Make Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Croissants
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole won’t stick. Slice each croissant in half lengthwise, then cut into large chunks — these pieces will soak up all the creamy egg mixture perfectly.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Arrange half of the croissant chunks evenly in the baking dish. Scatter half of your cooked bacon or sausage on top, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering with the remaining croissants, meat, and cheese. This layering creates delicious pockets of flavor and texture through every piece.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until completely combined. This creamy custard mixture is the heart of the casserole and will soak into the croissants, turning soft and custardy after baking.
Step 4: Pour and Let It Absorb
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered croissants, pressing down gently to help the bread soak up the custard. For best results, let the casserole sit for at least 15 minutes so the croissants absorb those flavors fully. You can also cover and refrigerate overnight, making this a fantastic make-ahead brunch option.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake the casserole uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until it is beautifully golden brown on top and fully set in the center. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving—this helps it firm up slightly for easier slicing and enhances the flavors.
How to Serve Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley are a simple and elegant finish, adding a burst of color and a subtle fresh note that balances the richness of the casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad to cut through the richness, or a light green salad with vinaigrette for a more savory brunch spread. A dollop of sour cream or a little hot sauce on the side can also be a delightful kick for those who love a bit of heat.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch, or cut into squares for a casual buffet-style brunch. Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the layers for extra nutrition and colorful variety. It’s your canvas to customize!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole keeps its creamy texture but will become firmer, making it easy to reheat in portions.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well either as whole baked portions or unbaked after assembling but before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisped on top. Microwaving works but may make the texture a bit softer, so the oven is best when you want to preserve that golden crust.
FAQs
Can I use fresh croissants instead of day-old croissants?
While fresh croissants are delicious, day-old or slightly stale croissants absorb the custard better without getting too soggy, giving your casserole the perfect texture.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or sausage and consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to keep it hearty and flavorful.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes! One of the best parts of this Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe is that it can be assembled the night before, refrigerated overnight, and baked fresh in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
What cheeses work best in this recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic because they offer great flavor and meltability. However, feel free to experiment with gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for different tastes.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free croissants if you can find them, or substitute with sturdy gluten-free bread chunks. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a breakfast dish that feels special but is incredibly easy to prepare, this Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe is an unbeatable choice. The combination of buttery croissants, savory bacon, and creamy cheese wrapped in a fluffy egg custard is downright irresistible. Give it a try for your next brunch or holiday morning—you may just find your new favorite tradition!
Print
Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delicious and hearty Croissant Breakfast Casserole combining buttery croissants, savory bacon or sausage, and a rich blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, all soaked in a flavorful egg custard and baked to golden perfection. Ideal for a make-ahead brunch or holiday breakfast, this casserole is easy to customize and serves 8 generously.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5–6 large croissants (day-old preferred)
- 1 cup cooked bacon or sausage, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Croissants: Slice the croissants in half lengthwise and then cut them into large chunks, which will form the base layers of your casserole.
- Layer Ingredients: Place half of the croissant pieces into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with half of the cooked bacon or sausage, followed by half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Repeat this layering process with the remaining croissants, meat, and cheeses to build the casserole.
- Mix Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until completely combined, creating a rich, flavorful custard.
- Combine Custard with Layers: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant layers in the dish. Gently press down on the layers to help the bread soak up the custard, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
- Rest the Casserole: Allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes so the croissants absorbed the liquid. For a make-ahead option, cover and refrigerate it overnight.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and the center is fully set, indicating the eggs are cooked through.
- Cool and Garnish: Once baked, let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a fresh, colorful finish before serving.
Notes
- This casserole is highly customizable—consider adding sautéed onions, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and vegetables.
- It reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers or preparing ahead of time for holiday mornings or brunch gatherings.
