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.
