Imagine starting your morning with buttery, flaky croissants baked to golden perfection, soaked in a rich egg mixture, and layered with savory sausage, creamy cheese, and vibrant vegetables. The Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a decadent yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for family breakfasts, holiday brunches, or anytime you want to elevate your morning meal.

Let’s explore how to prepare this indulgent casserole step by step while discovering tips to make it your own.

Why You’ll Love Croissant Breakfast Casserole

This casserole is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons:

• Unique Texture: The flaky croissants absorb the egg mixture beautifully while maintaining their buttery layers.
• Versatility: Customize the recipe with your favorite fillings and seasonings.
• Convenient: Prepare it the night before for a stress-free morning.
• Balanced Flavors: The perfect mix of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and tangy mustard brings a gourmet touch.

Ingredients for Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Main Ingredients

• 8–10 small/medium stale croissants
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb breakfast sausage
• ½ yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 2 cups white cheddar, grated
• 3 green onions, sliced
• ½ teaspoon paprika

Egg Mixture

• 10 eggs
• 1 ¼ cups half and half
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (like Frank’s or Tabasco)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Topping

• 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
• Reserved egg mixture
• Additional shredded cheddar cheese
• Sliced green onions for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned.
3. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft.
4. Set the sausage mixture aside to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled sausage mixture, cream cheese, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, and sliced green onions.
2. Mix until well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Prepare the Croissants

1. Slice the croissants in half lengthwise.
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Arrange the bottom halves of the croissants in the dish, covering the base evenly.
4. Spread the sausage mixture evenly over the croissant bottoms, then top with the top halves of the croissants.

Step 4: Make the Egg Mixture

1. In a blender or mixing bowl, combine the eggs, half and half, dijon mustard, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend or whisk until smooth and uniform.
3. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the egg mixture and set aside.

Step 5: Pour and Soak

1. Pour the remaining egg mixture evenly over the croissants in the baking dish.
2. Cover the dish with foil and let it soak for at least 1 hour at room temperature, or refrigerate overnight for a deeper flavor.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush the croissants with the reserved egg mixture and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
3. Top with additional shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with sliced green onions for a fresh finish.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Use Stale Croissants: Stale croissants absorb the egg mixture better, preventing a soggy casserole. Fresh croissants can be lightly toasted before use.
• Customize the Fillings: Swap sausage for bacon, ham, or a vegetarian alternative. Add spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables for variety.
• Make It Spicy: Add more hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or pepper jack.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/8 of Casserole)
Calories	380
Protein	20g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fat	28g
Sodium	750mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, assemble and freeze the uncooked casserole (without the topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, add the topping, and bake as directed.

4. Can I use croissants of different sizes?

Absolutely. Adjust the number of croissants to fit your dish, ensuring the base is fully covered.

5. Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the sausage with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a meat-free option.

6. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Ensure the dish is covered with foil during the initial baking period and monitor closely to avoid overbaking.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Breakfast Game

This Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a showstopping dish that combines elegance with comfort. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch, holiday gathering, or a cozy family breakfast, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.

Ready to try it? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and bring a little luxury to your breakfast table today!

Print