Croissant Breakfast Casserole
As the holiday season approaches, gathering with friends and family around the breakfast table becomes a cherished tradition. One dish that is sure to impress your guests while making your morning easier is the Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole. This luxurious yet simple casserole combines the flakiness of croissants with a rich custard base, making it a perfect centerpiece for any holiday brunch.
Why Choose Croissants?
Croissants are not only delicious but also bring a sumptuous texture to the dish. Their buttery layers soak up the egg mixture beautifully, creating a soft and custardy interior while still offering a slight crisp on the top when baked. With croissants as the star ingredient, this breakfast casserole elevates the usual brunch offerings to something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this delightful Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole, gather the following ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 4-5 large croissants, preferably day-old or stale, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for a richer taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or gruyère)
- 1/2 cup diced ham (or cooked sausage, optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust based on preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Optional Toppings:
- Fresh herbs like chives or parsley
- Sliced avocados
- Additional shredded cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, layer the torn croissant pieces evenly.
- Sprinkle the diced ham or sausage over the croissants, followed by the shredded cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the croissant and cheese layers, ensuring everything is evenly soaked.
- Gently press down on the croissants with a spatula to aid absorption.
Step 2: Let It Rest Overnight
Cover the casserole with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the croissants to absorb the custard mixture fully.
Step 3: Bake the Casserole
- In the morning, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the egg is set in the middle. If it browns too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil for the last few minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs, sliced avocado, or an extra sprinkle of cheese. Pair this dish with fresh fruit, a variety of pastries, or a festive drink like mimosas or coffee.
Making It Your Own
Feel free to customize the casserole based on your preferences:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Sweet Twist: Consider adding chocolate chips or berries mixed with cream cheese for a sweeter version perfect for a holiday gathering.
Final Thoughts
The Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a showstopper that balances ease and elegance, making it an ideal choice for your holiday brunch. Prepare it the night before, and you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy the festivities with your loved ones. This casserole is sure to become a cherished tradition in your holiday festivities for years to come!
Happy cooking and happy holidays!