Description
Start your morning right with this Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole! Made with buttery croissants, savory sausage, and creamy cheddar cheese, it’s a make-ahead dish perfect for brunch or family gatherings. Easy to customize and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 pound mild breakfast sausage
- 4 large butter croissants, torn into pieces
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 cups whole milk, divided
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft.
- Add sausage, cook until browned, and drain excess fat (reserve 1 tablespoon).
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer torn croissants in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with cooked sausage, onion, and shredded cheese.
- Mix the Custard:
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, heavy cream, 1 cup milk, mustard powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Pour over casserole layers. Press down gently.
- Chill Overnight:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the casserole sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes or until golden and set in the center.
- Make the Gravy:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in reserved sausage fat and flour to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in remaining 2 cups of milk until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes. Serve warm with gravy drizzled on top.
Notes
- Use slightly stale or toasted croissants for better absorption.
- Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for variety.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute croissants with gluten-free bread and use gluten-free flour in the gravy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
