Save A decadent and savory breakfast casserole featuring buttery croissants, fluffy eggs, melty cheese, and aromatic garlic, perfect for brunch or a cozy morning.
The first time I made this croissant bake, family gathered around the kitchen, drawn by the irresistible scent of garlic and melting cheese. Everyone fought for seconds!
Ingredients
- Croissants: 4 large, preferably day-old, torn into large pieces
- Eggs: 6 large
- Whole Milk: 1 ½ cups
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Mozzarella Cheese: ½ cup, shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Chives or Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Dried Thyme: ½ teaspoon (optional)
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Layer Croissants:
- Arrange torn croissant pieces evenly in dish.
- Mix Custard:
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, garlic, chives or parsley, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and half the Parmesan.
- Combine:
- Pour mixture over croissants, press down gently so all are soaked.
- Add Butter:
- Drizzle melted butter on top.
- Top With Cheese:
- Sprinkle remaining Parmesan over casserole.
- Rest:
- Let sit for 10 minutes for croissants to absorb custard.
- Bake:
- Bake 30-35 minutes until golden and set.
- Finish:
- Cool for 5 minutes, garnish with extra herbs before serving.
Save My kids love helping tear apart croissants and sprinkle cheese, making breakfast prep a special weekend tradition in our home.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a simple green salad, roasted tomatoes, or fruit for a complete brunch spread.
Ingredient Swaps
Try Gruyère or Swiss for a different cheese flavor or toss in sautéed spinach and mushrooms for extra veggies.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well refrigerated up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven for best texture.
Save This bake is an instant crowd-pleaser for any brunch table. Treat yourself and loved ones to a warm, cheesy morning!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different cheeses in this dish?
Yes, Gruyère or Swiss cheese are tasty substitutions or additions to the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- → Do croissants need to be day-old?
Day-old croissants absorb the custard best, but fresh croissants work if that's what you have on hand.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
It is vegetarian-friendly as written, but contains dairy and eggs. Omit meat or substitute plant-based cheeses if needed.
- → Can I add vegetables or meat?
Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, cooked bacon, or ham can be added for extra flavor before baking.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cool completely, cover, and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving.
- → Is it possible to prepare ahead?
Yes, you can assemble the bake the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning for convenience.