Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a rich and indulgent make-ahead brunch dish that transforms buttery croissants into a fluffy, custard-like casserole. Layered with eggs, milk, cheese, and savory breakfast fillings like ham or bacon, this dish is baked to golden perfection the next morning.

It’s the perfect recipe for Christmas morning, Easter brunch, or any time you want a stress-free yet impressive breakfast for family and guests. By preparing it the night before, you get all the flavors of a fresh, warm breakfast with minimal work in the morning.

Ingredients

  • 6 large croissants, torn into chunks (day-old preferred)
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for richness)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup cooked ham or bacon, diced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing dish)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare Croissants

  • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
  • Tear croissants into chunks and place half into the baking dish.

Step 2: Add Fillings

  • Layer half of the ham (or bacon), onion, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese over croissants.
  • Add remaining croissant chunks on top and repeat with ham and cheeses.

Step 3: Make Egg Custard

  • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Pour evenly over croissant mixture, pressing down lightly to soak.

Step 4: Chill Overnight

  • Cover with foil and refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight.

Step 5: Bake

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Remove casserole from fridge 20 minutes before baking.
  • Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake another 20 minutes until golden and set.

Step 6: Serve

  • Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with parsley or chives.

Variations

  • Vegetarian: Replace meat with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
  • Loaded Style: Add crumbled sausage, bacon, and ham for a meat-lover’s version.
  • Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
  • Sweet Twist: Replace savory fillings with cream cheese, berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Cooking Notes

  • Day-old croissants absorb custard better than fresh.
  • If casserole looks too brown before center sets, cover loosely with foil.
  • For extra richness, substitute some milk with heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced brunch.
  • Serve with coffee, mimosas, or hot tea.
  • Add roasted potatoes or a light salad for a complete spread.

Tips

  • Prep the night before for a no-stress morning.
  • Store leftovers in fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze baked casserole in portions for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture.

Timing

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Chill Time: 6+ hours (overnight preferred)
  • Cooking Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 7+ hours (including chill)

Nutritional Information (per serving, 8 servings)

  • Calories: 430
  • Protein: 23g
  • Sodium: 740mg

FAQs

Q1: Can I make overnight croissant breakfast casserole ahead of time?

  • Yes, assemble the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.

Q2: Can I use mini croissants instead?

  • Yes, just cut them in half or thirds before layering.

Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?

  • Yes, use plant-based milk, cheese, and butter alternatives.

Q4: Can I add vegetables?

  • Absolutely, spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers work beautifully.

Q5: Can I skip the overnight chill?

  • You can bake it after 1–2 hours of chilling, but overnight chilling gives the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a buttery, cheesy, and savory dish that makes mornings easy and delicious. With its make-ahead convenience, golden croissant layers, and hearty fillings, it’s the ultimate recipe for special occasions or lazy weekends. Simple, customizable, and guaranteed to please, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite.

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