Breakfast Croissant Casserole

Name: Breakfast Croissant Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 6 large croissants, cut into bite-sized pieces; 6 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Favorites

I absolutely love starting my day with a delightful Breakfast Croissant Casserole. It’s a game changer for breakfast gatherings! The flaky croissants soak up the creamy custard and melt in your mouth, making each bite a luxurious experience. The combination of eggs, cheese, and spices elevates this dish to new heights, and it's surprisingly easy to prepare. Just toss together the ingredients, let them mingle, and bake—get ready to impress your family or guests with minimal effort!

Created by

Chloe Baker

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:53:36.075Z

One morning, I decided to experiment with leftovers, particularly croissants, and this Breakfast Croissant Casserole was born. By soaking croissants in a custard made of eggs and milk, I managed to create a satisfying dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make. The key is to let it sit for at least 30 minutes before baking, allowing the flavors to develop wonderfully.

I love adding a hint of vanilla and nutmeg for warmth. These subtle spices complement the rich ingredients, giving the casserole a delightful depth. The resulting texture is both creamy and fluffy, making it a perfect brunch centerpiece that everyone will adore!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Flaky croissants soaked in rich custard mixture
Heavenly flavor enhanced by a touch of vanilla and nutmeg
Perfect for breakfast gatherings or a cozy weekend brunch

Tailoring Your Croissant Casserole

One of the great features of this Breakfast Croissant Casserole is its adaptability. You can easily swap out the croissants for a different type of bread, such as brioche or even leftover bagels. This versatility allows you to work with what you have on hand while still achieving a rich and satisfying dish. Just make sure the bread you choose can adequately soak up the custard mixture; both brioche and croissants do a fantastic job with their flaky texture.

For those looking to add more nutrients, consider incorporating cooked vegetables like spinach or sautéed mushrooms into the mixture. These additions not only boost the overall flavor but also enhance the nutritional profile of your casserole. Just remember to reduce the amount of custard slightly if you add a lot of extra ingredients to maintain the right balance.

The Importance of Soaking Time

Allowing the croissants to soak in the custard for at least 30 minutes is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. This soak time allows the bread to absorb the flavors of the eggs, milk, and spices, resulting in a cohesive and flavorful dish. You can even let it sit in the refrigerator overnight, which will deepen the flavors as they meld together. Just remember to cover the dish tightly to prevent it from drying out.

If you're in a hurry but still want to prepare this dish, consider a quick soak time of about 15 minutes. While it won't be as richly flavored, it still yields a delightful casserole. Just be cautious not to rush the baking process; ensure the casserole is fully set in the middle, usually indicated by a slight jiggle or a firm texture when you tap the side of the baking dish.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This Breakfast Croissant Casserole is delicious on its own, but serving it with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad can elevate your brunch experience. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup on top adds a touch of sweetness that beautifully contrasts the savory flavors. You can also serve it with a dollop of yogurt for a creamy texture that enhances the dish’s richness.

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring the exterior stays slightly crisp. Freezing is also an option; just cut into portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious casserole:

Ingredients

6 large croissants, cut into bite-sized pieces
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Breakfast Croissant Casserole:

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the croissant pieces and shredded cheese, tossing to coat evenly.

Make the Custard

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Combine and Soak

Pour the custard mixture over the croissant and cheese. Gently stir to ensure all pieces are well soaked. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 45 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the middle.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally topped with fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Pro Tips

For extra indulgence, add diced ham or sautéed vegetables to the mixture before baking. You can also experiment with different cheeses for varied flavor profiles.

Enhancing Flavor

The combination of vanilla extract and ground nutmeg in the custard not only adds warmth but also elevates the flavors of the casserole. If you're looking for a twist, consider infusing the milk with a cinnamon stick or even using flavored creamers to give a unique twist to your dish. Just remember to strain out any solid ingredients before mixing with your eggs.

For cheese lovers, trying different cheese blends can take your casserole to new heights. A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella can provide a delightful combination of flavor and texture, creating crispy edges while keeping a gooey center. If you need a dairy-free option, plant-based cheeses work well here, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.

Baking Tips

Proper oven temperature is crucial for perfectly baked croissant casserole. If your casserole is browning too quickly on the top before being set in the middle, consider covering it loosely with aluminum foil for the final 15 minutes of baking. This will help prevent burning while allowing it to cook through evenly.

To check for doneness, look for a golden-brown top and a slightly firm center. If you have a food thermometer, the center should register about 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked. Avoid opening the oven door too often, as it can cause the casserole to collapse due to temperature fluctuation, which is a common issue in baked goods.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bake it fresh the next morning.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to use Gruyère, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites for a unique taste.

→ Can I substitute croissants with other types of bread?

Yes! You can use brioche or even stale bread if you're looking for an alternative to croissants.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.