Breakfast Croissant Casserole

Name: Breakfast Croissant Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 6 large croissants, cut into pieces; 8 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1/2 cup diced ham or cooked bacon; 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley or chives); Salt and pepper to taste; Butter for greasing the baking dish

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Inspiration

When I first tried making a Breakfast Croissant Casserole, I was surprised by how easy it was to transform ordinary croissants into a delightful breakfast dish. I love the way the buttery layers soak up the egg mixture, creating a creamy and rich texture that's perfect for a weekend brunch. The combination of flavors from the croissants and the filling makes it special, and I always look forward to serving this to family and friends for a cozy morning together.

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:29:35.995Z

I remember the first time I served this Breakfast Croissant Casserole at a family gathering. The way it disappeared in minutes amazed me! It’s not just about flavor; the method allows the croissants to absorb all the richness of the egg and cream mixture, which is key to achieving that custardy texture. I recommend letting it sit for a little while before baking to maximize those flavors.

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients, whether that's crispy bacon, sautéed vegetables, or different cheeses. Each time I make it, I get creative and end up with something unique!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory and buttery croissant layers that make each bite special
Rich and creamy texture that's wonderfully comforting
Easily customizable with your favorite breakfast ingredients

The Secret to Perfectly Soaked Croissants

One of the key aspects of a successful Breakfast Croissant Casserole is ensuring the croissants are thoroughly soaked in the egg mixture. To achieve this, it's crucial not only to pour the mixture evenly over the croissant pieces but also to gently press down on them with a spatula or your hands, allowing the eggs to penetrate through the layers. This technique guarantees that each bite is infused with rich, custardy goodness, and makes a noticeable difference in texture and flavor.

For best results, let the assembled casserole sit for about 20-30 minutes before baking. This resting time allows the croissant pieces to absorb more of the egg mixture, resulting in a moister and creamier casserole. If you’re short on time, you can also prepare this dish the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to adjust your baking time if it goes into the oven straight from the fridge.

Customizing Your Casserole

One of the wonderful things about this Breakfast Croissant Casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize it by swapping out the cheese, meats, and herbs based on your preferences. For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms and spinach, or replacing the ham with roasted bell peppers. Cheese options such as feta or mozzarella can also add unique flavors to the dish, enhancing both taste and texture.

If you want to boost the flavor profile, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture. These additions can elevate the dish's complexity without overwhelming the base flavors of the croissants and eggs. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to a new favorite version of this casserole, so feel free to get creative!

Serving and Storing Leftovers

Once baked, the Breakfast Croissant Casserole can be served in squares or reserved as a family-style meal in the dish. Pair it with fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness of the casserole. It’s fantastic comfort food for brunch or even as a satisfying breakfast for dinner. If you're feeling indulgent, a drizzle of hollandaise sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds an exciting twist.

For leftovers, cool the casserole completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well; consider cutting it into portions and freezing them individually. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. This makes for a quick and easy breakfast option on busy mornings.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients below to get started on this delicious casserole!

Ingredients

6 large croissants, cut into pieces
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1/2 cup diced ham or cooked bacon
1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley or chives)
Salt and pepper to taste
Butter for greasing the baking dish

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready before you start assembling the casserole.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Breakfast Croissant Casserole!

Prepare the baking dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.

Mix the egg mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine ingredients

Add in the cheese, diced ham or bacon, and fresh herbs to the egg mixture, stirring to incorporate.

Assemble the casserole

Layer the croissant pieces in the prepared baking dish. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, ensuring they're well soaked.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Breakfast Croissant Casserole!

Enjoy your breakfast with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced start!

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. This casserole works wonderfully with leftover meats or veggies. Also, allowing the mixture to sit for at least 30 minutes before baking can enhance the flavors.

Ingredient Highlights

The croissants are the star of this dish, and their buttery, flaky texture brings an indulgent mouthfeel that conventional bread can’t replicate. It's important to use fresh or slightly stale croissants, as they better absorb the egg mixture, giving the casserole that creamy quality. Fresh croissants can often be found at a local bakery or the bakery section of a supermarket, and using different flavors, such as almond or chocolate, can add an unexpected twist to your casserole.

Using a variety of cheeses can also change the entire flavor profile of the dish. While cheddar is classic, pepper jack offers a spicy kick, and gouda adds a nutty depth. The choice of meat is equally significant—bacon provides a crunchy texture, while ham integrates a juicy saltiness. If you're looking to reduce fat, consider omitting the meat altogether or using turkey bacon, which can still provide that satisfying crunch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your casserole comes out too dry, it might be due to overbaking or not having enough egg mixture. Always keep an eye on the baking process, especially during the last 10-15 minutes when you remove the foil; the dish should be set in the center and golden brown around the edges. If you find your casserole wasn't sufficiently soaked, remember to allow more resting time for the croissants in the egg mixture before baking next time.

Conversely, if the casserole is too soggy, it could be from using overly soft croissants or not enough baking time. This is often the case with fresh croissants, which can absorb moisture differently. For a poofier result, try baking it a little longer or slightly increasing the amount of egg or milk to create a lighter texture that retains moisture without becoming mushy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can use cooked vegetables, different meats, or even fruit for a sweeter version!

→ Is it okay to freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! You can freeze individual portions and reheat them in the oven or microwave.

→ How do I know when it's done baking?

The casserole should be puffed and golden brown on top, with the egg set in the center. You can also check with a toothpick.