Ah, breakfast—the most delightful meal of the day! There’s just something uniquely satisfying about starting the morning with a hearty dish that can satisfy everyone at the table. That’s why I absolutely adore my Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole. Picture this: fluffy chunks of croissants soaked in a rich, custardy mix of eggs and milk, complemented by savory sausage and melted cheese. It’s a warm hug on a plate! And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love the idea of prepping something the night before and waking up to a delicious breakfast just waiting to be baked?
This casserole has become a staple in my home, especially on lazy weekends when the whole family is gathered. My daughter often helps me tear the croissants into pieces, and I must say, there’s something extra special about making breakfast together. So, grab your favorite croissants and let’s dive into this easy yet impressive recipe!
What’s in Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole?
- Croissants: The star of the show! Using stale or day-old croissants gives the best texture. Kroger or your local bakery’s croissants work wonderfully here.
- Eggs: I use large farm-fresh eggs because they make everything taste better. Plus, they’re packed with protein to get your day started right!
- Milk: Whole or 2% works best for a creamy base. I usually go for organic milk; it adds richness to the dish.
- Breakfast sausage: Cooked and crumbled, this adds a savory depth to the casserole. Regular, turkey, or even plant-based sausage are all great options.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: It melts like a dream and gives that lovely gooey texture. A mix of cheeses can also be fabulous!
- Diced onion and bell pepper: Optional, but these little beauties add flavor and a pop of color. I’m particularly fond of red bell peppers for their sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon: Just a teaspoon elevates this dish to a whole new level. It gives a hint of warmth and sweetness that perfectly complements the savory elements.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all the flavors in the casserole.
- Fresh parsley: For a touch of freshness and color when serving, if you’re feeling fancy!
Is Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole Good for You?
This casserole does have its fair share of hearty ingredients, but hey, it’s breakfast! Let’s break it down: Croissants are typically buttery and rich, but they also provide a satisfying texture. The presence of eggs and milk contributes to the protein and calcium content, making it filling. The sausage adds some essential fats and protein, while the vegetables bring vitamins to the table. Just keep in mind that the richness can be a bit much if you’re watching your calorie intake. A simple swap of low-fat cheese or turkey sausage can lighten things up a tad, and adding in more veggies like spinach or mushrooms gives a healthy boost. Pair your casserole with fresh fruit or a light salad, and you’ve got yourself a well-rounded breakfast!
Ingredients List
- 6 large croissants, preferably stale or day-old
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole?
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for your delicious creation!
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined and lovely.
- Tear the croissants into bite-sized pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making it cozy.
- Evenly distribute the crumbled sausage, diced onion, and diced bell pepper over the croissant pieces like you’re creating a savory masterpiece.
- Pour the egg mixture over the croissant and sausage layer, ensuring the croissant pieces soak up all that goodness.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, because who wants to skip out on cheesy goodness?
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and pop it in the refrigerator overnight (or a minimum of 4 hours) so all those flavors meld together.
- The next morning, when you’re dreaming of breakfast, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is beautifully set in the middle.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing, and feel free to garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling a touch gourmet!
Cooking Tips & Variations for Your Casserole Adventure
- If you want a cheese lover’s dream, mix in some mozzarella or Swiss cheese along with the cheddar.
- For the vegetarians in your life, simply omit the sausage or use veggie sausage, and ramp up the veggies like spinach or mushrooms.
- Don’t hesitate to get creative with the spices—some paprika or a dash of hot sauce can add a kick of flavor!
- Leftovers? This casserole reheats well in the microwave or oven, so lunch is sorted!
Honestly, if you are searching for a breakfast winner that will wow your family and friends, this Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is just the ticket. It’s easy, delicious, and feels a bit fancy. Try it out, and when you do, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!
