Name: Irresistible Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 7 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 large croissants (preferably a day or two old), torn into large chunks; 1 pound (450g) ground sausage, cooked and drained; 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese; 6 large eggs; 2 cups (475ml) whole milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Introduction

This Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and easy way to start your morning. With buttery croissants, savory sausage, and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or a leisurely weekend brunch. Prepare it the night before and wake up to a warm, comforting meal.

The image shows a round white ceramic baking dish filled with a layered savory pie. The top layer is golden brown and bubbly with melted cheese, browned in spots, and slightly puffed, curling slightly at the edges to reveal a flaky, golden pastry crust. Beneath the cheese and crust, you see a creamy layer with small chunks of mushrooms mixed in. Fresh green parsley leaves are placed on top as garnish, adding a bright contrast. The dish is set on a rustic wooden table with a white marbled textured surface partly visible, and a red glass bottle blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

5 large croissants (preferably a day or two old), torn into large chunks
1 pound (450g) ground sausage, cooked and drained
1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
6 large eggs
2 cups (475ml) whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Layer the torn croissants evenly in the dish.
Step 3: Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the croissants.
Step 4: Add the shredded cheese, spreading it evenly over the sausage.
Step 5: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully combined.
Step 6: Pour the egg mixture slowly over the croissant mixture, making sure to cover all the pieces evenly.
Step 7: Gently press down the croissants with a spatula so they absorb the liquid.
Step 8: Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours.
Step 9: The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 10: Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Step 11: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old croissants to prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy.
Substitute sausage with cooked bacon or ham for different flavor options.
Add diced vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
Try pepper jack or mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a different twist.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen before baking—cover tightly and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

How to Serve

The image shows a white round casserole dish filled with a golden brown croissant casserole. The top layer is made of flaky croissant pieces baked to a shiny, slightly crispy texture with a rich golden color. Underneath, there is a creamy, yellow cheese layer mixed with small bits of cooked vegetables and herbs, adding pops of green and red. The casserole is garnished with chopped green herbs on top. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, and a woman's hand is reaching in to take a piece. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole without sausage?

Yes, you can omit the sausage or replace it with other proteins like cooked bacon, ham, or even a vegetarian option such as sautéed mushrooms.

Do I have to refrigerate it overnight?

Refrigerating overnight allows the croissants to soak up the egg mixture fully, resulting in a custardy texture. If short on time, refrigerate for at least 6 hours for good results.