Description
This Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a decadent and savory morning treat featuring flaky croissants soaked in a rich egg custard, layered with flavorful breakfast sausage and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for making ahead, this dish combines comforting textures and bold flavors, making it ideal for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Place the croissant pieces evenly across the bottom of the dish to form the base layer of the casserole.
- Add Sausage and Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage over the croissant pieces, then distribute the shredded cheddar cheese on top to ensure every bite is rich and flavorful.
- Make the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This custard base will soak into the croissants and bind the casserole.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant, sausage, and cheese layers. Gently press down the croissants so they absorb the liquid custard thoroughly, enhancing texture and flavor absorption.
- Refrigerate: Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 2 hours. This allows the croissants to fully soak up the egg mixture for the best consistency.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature while the oven heats. Bake it uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set firmly.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. Slice and serve warm to enjoy the melted cheese, savory sausage, and soft croissant combination at its best.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider using half-and-half instead of milk.
- This casserole can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance for convenience.
- Feel free to swap the breakfast sausage for bacon or ham as preferred.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated thoroughly within 2 days.
- Add chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top before baking for extra freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: breakfast casserole, croissant casserole, sausage breakfast bake, make-ahead breakfast, overnight casserole, brunch recipe, cheddar cheese casserole
