Breakfast Casserole with Croissants
Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals
I absolutely adore starting my day with a warm and comforting breakfast casserole, especially when it incorporates the buttery goodness of croissants. This Breakfast Casserole with Croissants has become a family favorite in my home, combining the richness of eggs, cheese, and savory ingredients for a delightful morning treat. It’s an effortless way to impress guests at brunch or to simply treat yourself on a lazy weekend morning. Trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds before you know it!
When I first tried creating a breakfast casserole using croissants, I was amazed at how the flaky layers absorbed the egg mixture beautifully, creating a rich, custardy texture. I love using a mix of savory ingredients—like spinach and cheese—that complement the croissants perfectly, adding both flavor and color. For me, the secret is letting the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps set the layers and makes each slice come out perfectly.
This casserole has quickly become my go-to for holiday brunches and casual gatherings. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and simply pop in the oven when ready to serve. I love experimenting with different fillings, so feel free to get creative with your veggie and protein choices!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flaky croissants create an indulgent base.
- Savory and rich filling pairs wonderfully with eggs.
- Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family breakfast.
Ingredient Insight
Each ingredient in this breakfast casserole plays a crucial role in creating a balanced dish. The croissants serve not only as a flaky base but also absorb the flavors of the egg mixture, resulting in a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Choosing high-quality croissants can elevate the dish significantly; consider using a mix of plain and almond croissants for a subtly sweet twist.
The richness of eggs is enhanced by the addition of milk, which keeps the casserole moist and fluffy. You can experiment with different types of milk, such as whole, almond, or oat milk, depending on dietary preferences. This flexibility caters to various tastes while still resulting in an indulgent breakfast option that will leave you satisfied.
Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole
Be sure to cut your croissants into even pieces—roughly one-inch chunks—so they cook uniformly. If you find that your mixture seems too runny before baking, try adding an extra 1/4 cup of cheese or a handful of breadcrumbs. This will help absorb any excess moisture and yield a firmer set once baked.
If you're short on time, prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Simply cover it tightly with foil to prevent it from drying out. In the morning, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. This step ensures even cooking and a beautifully puffed appearance.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 large croissants, cut into pieces
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup cooked bacon or sausage, crumbled
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk until well blended. Stir in the chopped spinach, crumbled bacon or sausage, and half of the cheese.
Assemble the Casserole
In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer the croissant pieces evenly in the bottom. Pour the egg mixture over the croissants, ensuring everything is well saturated. Top with the remaining cheese.
Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
Serve
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious breakfast casserole!
Pro Tips
- For a touch of freshness, consider adding diced tomatoes or bell peppers to the filling. You can also prepare this dish the night before—just keep it refrigerated and bake in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your breakfast casserole with a fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt to balance the richness of the dish. A drizzle of spicy Sriracha or a sprinkle of fresh chili flakes can add a fun kick, elevating your brunch experience. Don't forget to serve with a choice of beverages, like freshly brewed coffee or a mimosa, to complement the flavors.
For a heartier option, consider adding roasted vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to the casserole filling. This not only increases the nutritional value but introduces new flavors and textures that can make your breakfast even more delightful.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place slices on a baking tray and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps restore the crispy texture of the croissants without making the eggs rubbery.
For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, allow it to come to room temperature, and then bake as directed for a quick and satisfying breakfast.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator to bake in the morning.
→ What can I use instead of croissants?
You can substitute brioche or any other rich bread if croissants are unavailable.
→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the bacon or sausage and use more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
→ Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover casserole. Just let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer.
Breakfast Casserole with Croissants
I absolutely adore starting my day with a warm and comforting breakfast casserole, especially when it incorporates the buttery goodness of croissants. This Breakfast Casserole with Croissants has become a family favorite in my home, combining the richness of eggs, cheese, and savory ingredients for a delightful morning treat. It’s an effortless way to impress guests at brunch or to simply treat yourself on a lazy weekend morning. Trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds before you know it!
Created by: Sandra
Recipe Type: Nourishing Comfort Meals
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 large croissants, cut into pieces
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup cooked bacon or sausage, crumbled
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk until well blended. Stir in the chopped spinach, crumbled bacon or sausage, and half of the cheese.
In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer the croissant pieces evenly in the bottom. Pour the egg mixture over the croissants, ensuring everything is well saturated. Top with the remaining cheese.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious breakfast casserole!
Extra Tips
- For a touch of freshness, consider adding diced tomatoes or bell peppers to the filling. You can also prepare this dish the night before—just keep it refrigerated and bake in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 15g