Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Croissant Casserole is a delightful dish that is both comforting and indulgent. It brings together the buttery goodness of croissants with rich eggs and tangy cheese. This recipe is perfect for breakfast or brunch and can easily impress your family and friends.
The combination of crispy bacon and fresh herbs elevates the flavors, making it suitable for any special occasion or holiday gathering. Plus, it’s an easy make-ahead meal that saves time in the morning while still delivering on taste.
Equipment Needed For Cheesy Croissant Casserole
Creating this delicious casserole is simple and doesn’t require anything too fancy. Here’s a brief list of the equipment you’ll need:
- Large baking sheet
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- 9 by 13-inch baking dish
- Paper towels for draining bacon
What You Need to Make Cheesy Croissant Casserole
To whip up a Cheesy Croissant Casserole, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:
- 6 large croissants, quartered
- 6 slices bacon
- 8 eggs
- 3 cups milk (preferably whole)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped chives
- 2 tsp. chopped thyme leaves
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch cayenne
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella, divided
- Butter, for pan
How to Cook Cheesy Croissant Casserole Step by Step
To begin, preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats, take the croissants and place them on a large baking sheet, cut side up. Bake them until they are golden brown, which should take about 6 minutes. This step will enhance their flavor and texture.
Next, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium flame. Add the bacon slices and cook them until they are crispy, which should take about 8 minutes. Once they’re cooked, transfer the bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease, and then chop the crispy bacon into bite-sized pieces.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, finely chopped chives, and thyme. Make sure they are well combined. After the mixture is blended, season it with Kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for a hint of spice. Next, fold in about three-quarters of a cup of shredded Gruyere cheese and three-quarters of a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese into the egg mixture.
Prepare a 9 by 13-inch baking dish by lightly buttering its bottom and sides. Now it’s time to assemble. Scatter the quartered croissants evenly in the baking dish. Follow this by adding the chopped, crispy bacon on top of the croissants. Carefully pour the egg mixture over the croissants and bacon, ensuring it covers everything well. Gently press down on the croissants so they soak up the egg mixture fully.
For the best results, refrigerate the casserole for about 30 minutes to overnight. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you are ready to bake, set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Before placing the casserole in the oven, sprinkle the remaining cheeses on top. Bake the casserole for about 45 minutes, or until it turns a lovely golden brown.
Once baked, garnish with more chives if desired and serve the casserole warm. It’s delicious, hearty, and sure to be a favorite!
How To Make Cheesy Croissant Casserole
Making Cheesy Croissant Casserole is straightforward. First, you gather all your ingredients and equipment. After baking the croissants and cooking the bacon, you prepare the egg mixture. Lastly, assemble and bake—the key steps are simple, and the flavor payoff is fantastic!
This dish shines with its creamy texture and fluffy croissant bits that soak up the egg mixture. Each bite delivers a delightful blend of cheese, herbs, and savory bacon.
How To Serve Cheesy Croissant Casserole
Serving Cheesy Croissant Casserole is simple and enjoyable. You can slice it into squares or squares and place them on individual plates. Garnish with some chopped chives for that fresh touch and a pop of color.
This dish is best served warm, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Pair it with a bright fruit salad or a light green salad to create a balanced meal.
What To Serve With Cheesy Croissant Casserole
Cheesy Croissant Casserole pairs well with various side dishes. Fresh fruit is excellent as it adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Consider serving a colorful fruit salad with strawberries, blueberries, and oranges.
For a more filling meal, a light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a crisp and tangy balance to the rich, cheesy casserole. Additionally, offering some crispy roasted potatoes or a light soup can round out the meal nicely.
How To Store Cheesy Croissant Casserole
If you have leftovers, it’s easy to store Cheesy Croissant Casserole. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. This way, you can enjoy a quick, hearty meal whenever you like. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips To Make Cheesy Croissant Casserole
To make the most of your Cheesy Croissant Casserole, consider some handy tips. First, choose good-quality croissants; this dish relies on their flaky texture and buttery flavor.
For the best flavor, don’t skip the herbs. Fresh chives and thyme add a lot to the dish. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or rosemary for a different twist.
Make sure to let the casserole sit in the fridge for a bit; overnight refrigeration yields the best flavor and texture. This allows the croissants to absorb more of the egg mixture.
Variation
You can easily customize the Cheesy Croissant Casserole according to your taste. For a more robust flavor, try adding sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. These can brighten the dish while adding nutritional value.
If you prefer different types of cheese, consider using cheddar or feta for a unique flavor profile. You can even swap out the bacon for sausage or ham for an alternative meat option.
Best Time To Make Cheesy Croissant Casserole
Cheesy Croissant Casserole is excellent for any occasion! It’s particularly perfect for leisurely weekend breakfasts, holiday brunches, or even as a cozy dish for a family gathering.
You can also prepare it for potlucks or breakfast clubs. Making it ahead really sets you up for stress-free entertaining later.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Avoiding mistakes can help ensure your casserole turns out perfectly. One common error is not allowing the croissants to cool adequately after baking. If they’re too hot, they might not absorb the egg mixture well.
Another mistake is over-baking. Keep an eye on the casserole in the oven. You want it golden brown and set but not dry. Lastly, be careful with seasonings; ensure you taste as you go to avoid an overly salty dish.
Nutritional Notes
For those watching their nutrition, Cheesy Croissant Casserole is a hearty dish. It includes protein from the eggs and bacon and some vitamins from the herbs. However, due to the heavy cream and cheese, it is rich and should be enjoyed in moderation.
If desired, you can lighten the dish by replacing heavy cream with more milk and using lower-fat cheeses.
FAQs
Can I make the casserole a day ahead?
Yes! You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake.
Can I use other types of bread?
Absolutely! While croissants are traditional, you can use any bread, such as brioche or French bread, for a different spin.
How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees until heated through.
Conclusion
Cheesy Croissant Casserole is a fantastic blend of flavors and textures, making it a must-try recipe for brunch or breakfast gatherings. With easy preparation and the option to customize, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you are feeding family or impressing guests, this casserole is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy all the cheesy goodness wrapped up in flaky croissant layers, and let this dish become a regular in your recipe rotation!
Cheesy Croissant Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the croissants on a large baking sheet, cut side up, and bake until golden brown, about 6 minutes.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 8 minutes, then drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, chives, and thyme until well combined.
- Season with Kosher salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne. Fold in 3/4 cup each of Gruyere and mozzarella cheese.
- Butter the bottom and sides of a 9 by 13-inch baking dish.
- Scatter the quartered croissants in the baking dish, followed by the chopped bacon.
- Pour the egg mixture over the croissants and bacon, pressing down to ensure the croissants soak up the mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Sprinkle on the remaining cheeses and bake for about 45 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Garnish with chives if desired and serve warm.
