Introduction to Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole
Morning rush hour can feel like a race against time, can’t it? That’s where my Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole comes to the rescue! This delightful dish feels like a warm embrace on a busy day, offering a delicious and hassle-free solution for your brunch table. With buttery croissants, savory sausage, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Imagine serving this glorious casserole at your next gathering, where everyone can dive in without the stress. Trust me, this recipe is your new go-to for delicious stress-free mornings!
Why You’ll Love This Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole
This Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is all about ease and flavor. With just a bit of prep the night before, you’ll wake up to a warm, hearty breakfast that practically makes itself. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, and the combination of buttery croissants and savory sausage creates a flavor explosion. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? This dish turns hectic mornings into a delightful experience filled with smiles!
Ingredients for Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole
Let’s talk about the building blocks of this mouthwatering Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole!
- Olive oil: This is your go-to for sautéing the onions. It adds a subtle flavor and helps everything cook evenly.
- Onion: One small, chopped onion enhances the savory depth of your casserole. Sautéing it brings out its natural sweetness.
- Breakfast sausage: I prefer mild for a kid-friendly version, but feel free to switch to spicy if you want to kick it up a notch!
- Butter croissants: These flaky delights are truly the stars of the show! You can also use smaller croissants for a more delicate bite.
- Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar ties everything together with its creamy, gooey goodness. Substitute with your favorite cheese if you’d like a twist!
- Eggs: Large eggs form the rich custard base, holding the casserole together as it bakes.
- Heavy whipping cream: This luscious addition intensifies the creaminess. You can replace it with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Whole milk: Use three cups total for the best creamy texture. Avoid low-fat for this dish—trust me, it’s worth it!
- Dry mustard powder: Just a half teaspoon elevates the flavor profile, adding a subtle zest that deeply complements the dish.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning. You can adjust the quantities to suit your taste, especially in the gravy.
- Paprika: A pinch enhances the aroma and adds a hint of color to your casserole.
- Garlic powder: This brings a delightful essence. Fresh garlic works too; just sauté it with the onions!
- Butter: Used for making the gravy, it adds richness. The reserved fat from the sausage also adds great flavor.
- All-purpose flour: This thickens the gravy, giving it that comforting, silky texture we all love.
How to Make Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole
Now, let’s dive into making this Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole! I can almost smell it baking as we talk! Follow these simple steps for a dish that will warm hearts and delight tastebuds. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them until they’re soft and translucent. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Sautéing onions unlocks their natural sweetness and adds depth to our casserole. Trust me, this little step makes a big difference!
Step 2: Cook the Breakfast Sausage
Next, toss in your mild breakfast sausage. Cook it until it turns brown and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Browning the meat not only brings out its flavors but also contributes that lovely savory taste we crave. Remember to drain excess fat but save a bit for our gravy later!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now for the fun part! Tear those buttery croissants into bite-sized pieces and transfer them to a large bowl. Add in the cooked sausage mixture and the shredded cheddar cheese. Gently combine everything. The creamy cheese and fluffy croissants create the perfect texture that’s hard to resist!
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, ½ cup of whole milk, and your chosen spices. Take your time with this step; a good whisk will ensure everything is blended smoothly. This custardy mixture is key to binding your casserole, giving it that rich, hearty feel every bite deserves!
Step 5: Assemble and Refrigerate
Carefully layer your croissant and sausage mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, ensuring everything is soaked in that velvety goodness. Cover it with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite burst with deliciousness come morning!
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
The next day, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for about 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and puffy. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking when breakfast is served!
Step 7: Make the Gravy
Don’t forget about the gravy! While your casserole bakes, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan along with the leftover sausage fat. Stir in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and gradually add in 2½ cups of whole milk. Keep stirring until it thickens, and season it with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy, flavorful gravy will elevate your casserole to a whole new level!
Tips for Success
- Prep everything the night before to save time in the morning.
- Use day-old croissants for added texture; they soak up the custard beautifully.
- Don’t skip the overnight refrigeration—it deepens the flavors!
- Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly to prevent any lumps.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: A non-stick or cast iron skillet works perfectly.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Any baking dish can substitute; just ensure it’s oven-safe.
- Mixing bowls: Use any size that fits your ingredients comfortably.
- Whisk: A fork can also do the trick if you’re in a pinch!
- Plastic wrap: Alternatively, you can use a clean kitchen towel to cover the casserole while refrigerating.
Variations
- Vegetable Medley: Add some chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a nutritious twist.
- Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for Swiss or pepper jack cheese for a unique flavor experience.
- Whole Wheat Croissants: For a healthier option, use whole wheat croissants; they taste delightful too!
- Vegan Version: Utilize plant-based sausage and egg substitutes with almond or oat milk for a vegan-friendly casserole.
- Herb Infusion: Sprinkle some fresh herbs like chives or parsley over the top before serving for a fresh flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the casserole hot, drizzled with that creamy gravy for maximum flavor.
- Pair it with fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
- A side of crispy bacon or sausage links complements the dish beautifully.
- Consider serving mimosas or coffee for a complete brunch experience.
FAQs about Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole
Can I use other types of bread? Absolutely! While the croissants add a delightful flakiness, you can substitute them with any bread, like brioche or even day-old bagels. Just adjust the soaking time to ensure they absorb the egg mixture well.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! That’s the beauty of this Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole. Assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and just pop it in the oven the next morning. It saves time and stress!
What should I serve with this casserole? Pairing it with a fresh fruit salad or some crispy bacon elevates the meal! For drinks, coffee and mimosas make a delightful brunch combination.
How do I store leftovers? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven for warmth.
Can I freeze this casserole? Yes! Assemble and freeze the unbaked casserole. When you’re ready to serve it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It’s a great meal prep hack!
Final Thoughts
Your mornings just got a whole lot brighter with this Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole! It’s more than just a meal; it’s a way to gather your loved ones and spark joy around the breakfast table. Picture the warmth of buttery croissants and sizzling sausage enveloping you each bite, exhilarating your taste buds. Plus, the convenience of prepping it the night before means you can wake up to deliciousness without stress! I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your family’s brunch traditions, bringing laughter, nourishment, and a sense of togetherness to your loved ones.
Print
Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: Overnight + 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for an overnight croissant breakfast casserole, perfect for brunch.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, peeled and chopped
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, mild flavor
- 4 large butter croissants (or 8 small croissants)
- 1 c shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 c heavy whipping cream
- 3 c whole milk, divided
- 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (plus additional for the gravy to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (plus additional for the gravy to taste)
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add breakfast sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, draining fat but reserving some for gravy.
- Allow sausage mixture to cool slightly.
- Tear croissants into pieces and combine with sausage mixture and cheese in a bowl.
- Spread mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, 1/2 cup milk, and spices, then pour over the croissant mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) the next day.
- Bake casserole for 35 to 45 minutes until browned on top.
- While baking, make the gravy by melting butter and reserved fat, stirring in flour, then gradually adding 2 ½ cups of milk until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve casserole hot alongside gravy.
Notes
- Make sure to use whole milk for a creamier texture.
- Feel free to customize the cheese or add vegetables as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 225mg
