Irresistible Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and easy way to start your day. Combining flaky croissants, savory sausage, and a creamy egg custard, it’s perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches.

Ingredients

• 5 large croissants (preferably day-old), torn into large chunks
• 1 lb (450g) ground sausage, cooked and drained
• 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups (475ml) whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Layer the torn croissants evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese over the croissants.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Pour this mixture evenly over the croissant layers. Gently press down with a spatula to help the croissants soak up the custard.
3. Step 3: Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the croissants to soften.
4. Step 4: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Uncover the casserole and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Let cool for 10 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter option, substitute turkey or chicken sausage, or use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist.
• Swap cheddar for Swiss, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella cheese for different flavor profiles.
• Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the layers for extra vegetables and color.
• If you like spice, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the egg mixture before baking.

Storage

Store leftover casserole tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. This dish can also be frozen before baking; thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh croissants instead of day-old?

Day-old croissants work best as they absorb the custard without becoming too mushy, but you can use fresh ones if you reduce soaking time slightly or bake a bit longer.

Can I prepare this casserole the same day instead of overnight?

Yes, you can assemble and bake immediately, though the texture improves with overnight soaking as the flavors develop and the croissants soak up the egg mixture fully.

Irresistible Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 62 reviews

This Irresistible Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole combines flaky croissants with savory sausage, melted cheddar cheese, and a rich egg custard for a convenient make-ahead breakfast. Simply prepare the layers the night before, refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning for a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a leisurely weekend brunch.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 6 hours 60 minutes (including refrigeration)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 5 large croissants (preferably day-old), torn into large chunks
• 1 lb (450g) ground sausage, cooked and drained
• 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups (475ml) whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins & Swaps

• Cooked turkey, chicken, or plant-based sausage
• Swiss, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella cheese
• Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers
• Dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes, for a spicy kick

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Layer torn croissants evenly in the dish. Sprinkle cooked sausage and shredded cheese evenly over the croissants.
2. Make the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully combined. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the croissant, sausage, and cheese layers. Gently press down with a spatula to help the croissants absorb the liquid.
3. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the croissants to soak up the custard mixture.
4. Bake in the Morning: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil and bake the casserole for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is fully set. Remove from oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before garnishing with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• Day-old croissants work best as they absorb the custard without becoming too soggy.
• You can customize the casserole by swapping sausage for cooked turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives.
• Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
• The casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance for convenience.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: overnight casserole, breakfast casserole, croissant casserole, sausage breakfast bake, make-ahead breakfast, brunch recipe, cheesy casserole