Weekends are for leisurely brunches, and what better way to start your day than with a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious breakfast casserole? This recipe elevates the classic breakfast casserole with the flaky goodness of croissants, creating a truly unforgettable dish that's perfect for a crowd or a cozy weekend breakfast for two. Forget the usual soggy bread – this recipe uses croissants for a delightful textural contrast and an irresistible buttery flavor. This easy recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals made simple. It's also a great way to use up leftover croissants! Let's dive into this quick dinner idea that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon (or ham, sausage for variations)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 croissants, cut into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This preparation ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.
Prepare the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined. This forms the base of your delicious casserole.
Add the ingredients: Gently fold in the cheese, bacon (or your chosen meat), onion, and bell pepper (if using). Ensure everything is evenly distributed for consistent flavor.
Assemble the casserole: Add the croissant pieces to the baking dish, distributing them evenly. Pour the egg mixture over the croissants, ensuring all the pieces are nicely coated. Gently press down on the croissants to submerge them slightly in the custard.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and lightly golden brown. Check for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean.
Serve and enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing and serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier.
Tips and Variations:
- Customize your meat: Feel free to substitute the bacon with sausage, ham, or even leftover roasted chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Add some veggies: Experiment with different vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Cheese please: Try different cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning. Just cover it and refrigerate overnight. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This breakfast casserole with croissants is a simple yet impressive dish, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a special weekend brunch. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to make, making it the ultimate easy recipe for busy mornings and special occasions alike. Enjoy this tasty addition to your homemade cooking repertoire!