Name: Make-Ahead Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 7 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 large croissants (preferably day-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; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; Fresh parsley, chopped; Cooked turkey, chicken, or plant-based sausage; Swiss, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar; Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers; Dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for spice

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If you’re craving a breakfast that feels like a warm hug but fits perfectly into your busy morning routine, look no further than this make-ahead Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole. It’s a divine mix of buttery croissants, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese, all soaked overnight and baked to golden perfection. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll want to serve it on repeat for every brunch, holiday morning, or weekend treat—because it’s truly that irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, yet every ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering layers of flavor and texture. From the flaky croissants that absorb the rich custard to the savory sausage that adds a satisfying bite, each component works in harmony to create the perfect breakfast bake.

5 large croissants (preferably a day or two old): Using slightly stale croissants helps them soak up the egg mixture without turning soggy.
1 pound ground sausage, cooked and drained: Adds savory, meaty richness that elevates the casserole’s flavor.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy goodness throughout the casserole.
6 large eggs: The custard base binds everything together, creating a fluffy, indulgent texture.
2 cups whole milk: Makes the custard creamy and smooth, helping soften the croissants perfectly.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, so don’t skimp here.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spicy undertone to balance the richness.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings subtle savory warmth for an extra flavor punch.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a mild sweetness and depth.
Fresh parsley (optional): A bright garnish that adds a burst of color and freshness.

How to Make Make-Ahead Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks and cleanup is easy. Then, tear your croissants into large chunks and spread them evenly in the dish. The croissants are the foundation of this casserole, soaking up all the marvelous flavors in the next steps, so distributing them well is key.

Step 2: Layer the Sausage and Cheese

Next, cook your sausage thoroughly and drain any excess fat—this keeps the casserole from being greasy. Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the croissants, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. This layering creates delightful pockets of savory meat and melty cheese that make each bite exciting.

Step 3: Mix the Custard and Pour

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until everything is smooth and combined. Slowly pour this custard over the layered croissants, sausage, and cheese, making sure every piece gets coated. A gentle press with a spatula helps the croissants absorb the flavorful liquid, setting the stage for a soft, custardy center with a crisp exterior.

Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the dish tightly with foil, then pop it into the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight. This make-ahead step is crucial—it gives the croissants time to soak up the custard fully, resulting in a casserole that bakes up fluffy and rich without any sogginess.

Step 5: Bake the Next Morning

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil and bake the casserole uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is a beautiful golden brown and the center is set. Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing—this resting time helps it firm up for cleaner cuts and easier serving.

How to Serve Make-Ahead Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a bright pop of green that not only makes the casserole look inviting but also provides a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the rich, cheesy dish. If you want another layer of flavor, feel free to add chopped chives or a dusting of smoked paprika for a hint of warmth.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with a light fruit salad or fresh berries to cut through the richness. For a heartier option, serve alongside crispy hash browns or roasted potatoes for a balanced meal that satisfies everyone at your table. A dollop of Greek yogurt also works wonders for refreshing your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving the casserole straight from the ceramic baking dish to the table brings a warm, rustic vibe to your breakfast spread. Pair it with a colorful fruit platter or a fresh green salad to create an eye-catching contrast. Using neutral-colored plates helps the golden hues of the casserole shine, making each serving look absolutely irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This make-ahead casserole keeps its flavor and texture beautifully, making it an easy grab-and-go option for busy mornings or quick meals throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of the casserole, either pre-baked or after baking, for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the assembled flavors and texture.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, microwave single portions for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through. For larger portions or the entire casserole, reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed evenly and the top regains its slight crispness.

FAQs

Can I make this without sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to omit the sausage or substitute it with cooked chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based meat alternative to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.

Can I bake it immediately without chilling overnight?

While you can bake the casserole right after assembling, the magic really happens during the overnight chill. This soak time lets the croissants absorb all the custard fully, creating the perfect texture and melding flavors beautifully.

What if I don’t have croissants on hand?

Brioche or challah bread makes a decent substitute due to their richness, but croissants add that unmistakable buttery flavor and flaky texture that elevate this casserole into something truly special.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw properly before reheating for the best results.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers are delicious additions that boost the nutrition and add extra flavor to this already hearty dish.

Final Thoughts

This make-ahead Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole truly changes the breakfast game with its effortless prep, comforting layers, and amazing flavors. Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a special brunch, having this dish ready means more time to relax and enjoy great company. Give it a try—you won’t regret waking up knowing breakfast just needs to bake itself!

Make-Ahead Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole

★★★★★

4.9 from 26 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 6 hours 60 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a decadent and comforting make-ahead breakfast dish combining buttery croissants, savory sausage, creamy eggs, and melty cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy mornings, holiday brunches, or weekend family breakfasts, it’s prepped the night before and baked to golden perfection in the morning for a flaky, flavorful, and indulgent start to your day.

Instructions

Prepare the Base: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Layer the torn croissants evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the cooked and drained sausage over the croissants, then add the shredded cheddar cheese, spreading it evenly.
Make the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully combined. Pour the egg mixture slowly and evenly over the croissant, sausage, and cheese layers. Gently press down with a spatula to help the croissants absorb the custard.
Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. This allows the croissants to soak and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Bake in the Morning: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil and bake the casserole uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the casserole for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm alongside your favorite breakfast sides.

Notes

Use day-old croissants for best texture; fresh croissants can make the casserole soggy.
Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking to firm up and make slicing easier.
For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking—watch carefully to avoid burning.
Feel free to customize by swapping the sausage or cheese or adding vegetables.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of recipe)
Calories: 410 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Fat: 27 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 15 g
Cholesterol: 230 mg

Keywords: overnight croissant breakfast casserole, croissant casserole, make-ahead breakfast, sausage breakfast casserole, cheesy breakfast bake, holiday brunch recipe, easy breakfast casserole