Your New Favorite Brunch Dish

Looking for a show-stopping breakfast or brunch recipe that’s easy to make yet indulgent enough to impress? Look no further than this Croissant Breakfast Casserole. Perfect for holidays, lazy weekends, or when you’re hosting guests, this dish combines buttery croissants, savory sausage, and a creamy egg mixture, all baked to golden perfection. To top it off, we include a rich and flavorful homemade gravy that takes this casserole to the next level.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is for anyone who loves comfort food with minimal effort. The best part? You can prepare it the night before, making your morning stress-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Prep: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
• Versatile Ingredients: The recipe allows for plenty of substitutions to suit your tastes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family brunches, potlucks, or holiday breakfasts.
• Rich and Comforting: Layers of flaky croissants, cheesy goodness, and savory sausage make every bite heavenly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need for this Croissant Breakfast Casserole:

For the Casserole:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, peeled and diced
• 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild flavor)
• 4 large croissants (or 8 small), torn into large bite-size pieces
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 large eggs
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 3 cups milk (whole milk recommended), divided
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon reserved sausage fat
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ cups milk
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• 9×13-inch glass baking dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Casserole Base

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until softened and translucent.
• Crumble the sausage into the skillet and cook until browned. Drain the fat and save 1 tablespoon for the gravy.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage and onions, torn croissants, and shredded cheese. Transfer this mixture to a greased 9×13-inch glass baking dish.

2. Make the Egg Mixture

• In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, ½ cup milk, mustard powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
• Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant and sausage mixture in the baking dish.

3. Chill Overnight

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.

4. Bake the Casserole

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

5. Prepare the Gravy

• While the casserole bakes, melt butter and the reserved sausage fat in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Add flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
• Gradually add 2 ½ cups milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
• Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Slice the casserole into portions and serve with gravy on the side or ladled over each piece.

Tips and Variations

Ingredient Swaps:

• Sausage: Swap for bacon, ham, or a vegetarian alternative like plant-based sausage.
• Cheese: Use mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
• Croissants: Stale bread, brioche, or even bagels can be substituted in a pinch.

Add-Ins:

• Sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can add extra nutrition and flavor.
• A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick.

Time-Saving Tip:

• Use pre-cooked sausage crumbles and shredded cheese to save time during preparation.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven until warmed through. The gravy can also be refrigerated in a separate container for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to adjust the consistency if needed.

What to Serve with Croissant Breakfast Casserole

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks:

• Sides: Fresh fruit salad, roasted potatoes, or a green salad for balance.
• Drinks: Pair with freshly brewed coffee, a mimosa, or a classic orange juice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe without refrigerating overnight?

Yes! While the flavors meld best when chilled overnight, you can bake the casserole immediately after assembling. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly, and freeze it unbaked for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

The gravy is best served fresh, but you can make it ahead and reheat it gently over low heat. Add a splash of milk to adjust the consistency if it thickens too much.

Conclusion

This Croissant Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish that’s both decadent and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or simply treating your family to a special weekend breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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