Description

A make-ahead breakfast casserole featuring buttery croissants, crispy bacon, and a rich egg custard, baked until golden and puffy for an effortless weekend brunch.

Ingredients

Scale

12 large butter croissants (or 2 dozen small), torn into 1-inch chunks
8 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
12 slices applewood smoked bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4 stalks green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Optional: 2 cups chopped spinach
Optional: 1 cup diced hash browns (pre-cooked)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Tear croissants into 1-inch chunks and place them in a large bowl.
Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy, drain, chop, and add to the bowl with croissants.
In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until frothy.
Pour the egg mixture over the croissants and bacon. Press down firmly to ensure all pieces are submerged.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and green onions on top.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for up to 12 hours for make-ahead, or let sit for 15 minutes if baking immediately.
Remove cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-45 minutes, until golden brown and set.
If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil for the last 10 minutes.
Let rest for 10 minutes before cutting and serving.

Notes

Use day-old or stale croissants for best texture as they absorb the custard better without becoming mushy. Ensure all croissant pieces are fully submerged in the egg mixture to prevent dry spots. For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen unbaked for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square slice
Calories: 450
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 650
Fat: 28
Saturated Fat: 14
Carbohydrates: 35
Fiber: 2
Protein: 22

Keywords: croissant bake, breakfast casserole, weekend brunch, make-ahead breakfast, bacon and egg bake, easy brunch recipe