A rich and savory overnight breakfast casserole made with buttery croissants, crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese. Perfect for a make-ahead breakfast, holiday gathering, or weekend brunch.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:45 minutes
Total Time:9 hours 5 minutes
Yield:8 servings
Category:Breakfast
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Salt
Ingredients
6 large croissants, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 ounces bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional)
Butter or cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Cut the croissants into bite-sized pieces and arrange them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces.
Sprinkle the cooked bacon evenly over the croissant pieces, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, bacon, and cheese. Gently press down on the croissants to help them absorb the liquid.
Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight, preferably for 8 to 12 hours.
The next morning, remove the casserole from the refrigerator while preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the covering and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the center is set, the eggs are fully cooked, and the top is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
This is an adapted recipe inspired by Mel’s Kitchen Cafe, not a verified transcription of the original.
Day-old croissants work especially well because they absorb the egg mixture without becoming overly soggy.
For extra flavor, substitute part of the cheddar cheese with Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack cheese.
Cooked breakfast sausage or diced ham can replace the bacon.
For a lighter casserole, use reduced-fat milk and cheese.
Refrigerating overnight allows the croissants to absorb the egg custard for a tender texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a 325°F oven until heated through.
Serve with fresh fruit, a green salad, or roasted breakfast potatoes.