Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole – Easy & Delicious

Introduction

If you love starting your morning with a warm, buttery, and satisfying breakfast, this Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish. It combines flaky croissants, creamy eggs, melty cheese, and savory ingredients into one irresistible bake. The best part? You can prepare everything the night before and simply pop it in the oven the next morning. This makes it an ideal choice for holidays, brunches, and busy mornings when you want a delicious homemade meal without the hassle.

Unlike traditional breakfast casseroles that use bread cubes, this version uses croissants, which provide a rich, buttery texture and slightly crisp edges after baking. The eggs and milk create a custard-like base that soaks into the croissants, ensuring every bite is flavorful and creamy. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just treating yourself to a cozy breakfast, this croissant egg casserole is guaranteed to impress.

If you’ve been searching for a make-ahead breakfast casserole that’s both easy and indulgent, look no further. This overnight croissant bake will become your new favorite go-to recipe for special occasions or lazy weekend mornings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why this overnight croissant breakfast casserole is a must-try:

• Make-Ahead Convenience – Prep everything the night before, so you can enjoy a stress-free morning.
• Rich and Buttery Flavor – The croissants add an unbeatable texture and taste.
• Perfect for Feeding a Crowd – It’s great for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, or meal prep.
• Highly Customizable – You can add meats, cheeses, or vegetables to suit your taste.
• Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor – Just assemble, refrigerate, and bake—it couldn’t be easier!

If you’re looking for a savory croissant breakfast casserole that is both comforting and impressive, this recipe is the perfect choice.

Ingredients for the Best Croissant Casserole

To make this easy croissant breakfast bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Casserole Base:

• 6 large croissants, torn into chunks
• 1 ½ cups diced ham (or cooked bacon or sausage)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese

For the Egg Custard:

• 6 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (for extra depth of flavor)

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup sautéed mushrooms for a richer taste
• ½ cup diced bell peppers for a colorful twist
• 1 cup baby spinach, chopped, for extra nutrition
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before getting started, make sure you have the right tools for a smooth cooking process:

• Large mixing bowl – For whisking the egg mixture.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – To hold the casserole.
• Whisk – For blending the eggs and milk.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient portions.
• Plastic wrap or aluminum foil – To cover and refrigerate overnight.

How to Make Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Croissants

Tear the croissants into large chunks and place them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. The flaky layers will soak up the egg mixture beautifully, creating a soft yet slightly crispy texture.

Step 2: Add the Fillings

Evenly distribute the diced ham (or any preferred meat), followed by the shredded cheddar and Swiss cheese. If you’re adding vegetables, sprinkle them evenly over the croissants as well.

Step 3: Make the Egg Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Assemble and Soak

Slowly pour the egg mixture over the croissants, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Use a spatula to gently press the croissants down so they absorb the liquid.

Step 5: Cover and Refrigerate

Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the croissants soak up the custard for the best texture.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before baking. This prevents the dish from going into the oven too cold.

Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Let It Rest and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm.

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Tips for a Perfect Breakfast Casserole

• Use day-old croissants for the best texture, as they absorb the custard mixture better without becoming too soggy.
• Let it soak overnight to ensure a fully infused and flavorful casserole.
• Don’t overbake! Keep an eye on the oven to prevent the casserole from drying out.
• Customize the flavors by swapping out cheeses or adding fresh herbs like chives or thyme.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, feta, or even blue cheese for a unique taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not soaking the croissants long enough can result in dry spots—ensure they are fully coated in the egg mixture.
• Using too much liquid may make the casserole overly soggy. Stick to the recommended measurements.
• Skipping the resting time after baking makes it harder to cut neat slices—let it sit for a few minutes.

How to Serve and Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve this overnight croissant breakfast bake with fresh fruit on the side. A drizzle of honey or a spoonful of cranberry sauce can add a hint of sweetness that balances the savory flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This croissant breakfast casserole stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 15 minutes. If microwaving, heat individual portions for 30-45 seconds.

To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What to Serve with Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

• Fresh Fruit Salad: Adds a light and refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt Parfaits: Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries complement the dish.
• Roasted Breakfast Potatoes: A crispy, flavorful side to balance the softness of the casserole.

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FAQs About Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Can I make this the night before?
Yes! Assembling it ahead of time allows the flavors to blend beautifully.

Can I use store-bought croissants?
Absolutely! Fresh or day-old croissants work well.

What’s the best cheese for this casserole?
Cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère are excellent choices, but feel free to experiment.

Conclusion

This Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is the perfect balance of flaky, creamy, and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a regular morning, it’s an easy dish that delivers incredible flavor. Try this recipe today and share it with family and friends!

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