Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe
This Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and easy make-ahead dish perfect for brunch or breakfast gatherings. Soft croissants soak in a flavorful mixture of eggs, milk, and spices, combined with savory breakfast sausage, bell peppers, and onions, then topped with melted cheddar cheese and baked to golden perfection. The casserole can be prepared the night before, allowing flavors to meld beautifully and saving time on busy mornings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: Overnight plus 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 large croissants, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
Spices
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the croissant pieces, cooked and crumbled sausage, diced bell pepper, and diced onion to the egg mixture. Gently fold everything together until the croissants are evenly coated with the egg mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours, allowing the croissants to soak up the egg mixture and blend flavors.
- Rest Before Baking: In the morning, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to take the chill off.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked bacon or ham for the breakfast sausage if preferred.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.
- This casserole can be covered and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Make sure the croissants are fresh or slightly stale for best absorption of the egg mixture.
Keywords: overnight casserole, croissant breakfast casserole, make ahead breakfast, breakfast casserole with sausage, easy brunch recipe
