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Let me tell you, this Overnight Croissant Breakfast Bake brightens up any typical morning and turns it into something special. Busy families or brunch hosts will love it. The smell of croissants, sausage, and cheddar in the oven makes even the sleepiest folks hurry to the kitchen.
This dish first showed up at my house on Christmas—and now it's one of those can't-miss traditions. Best part? You just pop it in the oven while everyone's opening presents, no stress.
Amazing Ingredients
- Eggs: Go for large fresh eggs for a fluffy soft texture and rich taste
- Whole milk: It'll make everything creamy, but if you want extra richness, try half and half
- Cheddar cheese, shredded: Brings that classic tang and melt—grab extra sharp for max flavor
- Pork sausage for breakfast: Pick one with tasty seasoning and not too greasy for perfect savory bites
- Big bakery croissants: Sliced up, these soak up all the creamy stuff while staying crisp on top
- Kosher salt: Levels up all the flavors and helps you control how salty it gets
- Cracked black pepper: Adds pep to every bite—change it up for more or less kick
- Dry mustard: It might sound weird but don't skip it, that hint of spice makes the whole thing better
How To Put It All Together
- Cool and Serve:
- Hang tight for a few after it comes out of the oven so it can set. Cut into squares, then dig in while it's still warm and melty
- Baking Time:
- Preheat the oven to three fifty, take your dish out of the fridge to warm a bit, then bake uncovered for forty-five minutes. Look for a golden top and just a little jiggle in the middle
- Let It Soak:
- Wrap tight with plastic and toss in the fridge—overnight or at least a couple hours. The longer you let it sit, the dreamier the custard gets
- Pour It All In:
- Gently pour the egg mixture over your croissant, sausage, and cheese layers. Use a spatula to press down just enough so the croissants soak it up—no smashing
- Mix Eggs and Dairy:
- In a big bowl, whisk eggs, milk, pepper, dry mustard, and salt till it's totally smooth. This ties everything together and gives it that fluffy vibe
- Layer Cheese and Sausage:
- Scatter sausage crumbles over those bread chunks, then sprinkle the cheese everywhere. That way every piece gets the good stuff
- Prep Your Baking Pan:
- Slather a nine-by-thirteen inch dish with a little oil or butter, making sure you don't miss the edges. Spread your croissant pieces all over so you get crisp on the bottom
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I seriously love how the corners of the croissants turn crunchy while the rest stays soft. Every bite feels like a treat. My kids still talk about that one snowy morning when the kitchen was steamy and we ate this together.
Storing Leftovers
Just cover leftovers tight and keep them in the fridge up to three days. Warm up slices in the microwave or oven for best flavor. Want to freeze? Put it together but don't bake. Wrap well with foil, freeze up to two months, then thaw in the fridge before baking as usual.
Easy Swaps
If you're skipping sausage, try mushrooms, peppers, or spinach instead. For something lighter, turkey or chicken sausage works great too. Swap the cheddar for Swiss, mozzarella, or gruyere if you're feeling fancy. Each cheese totally changes the vibe.
How To Serve
This one’s awesome with a big fruit salad or fresh mixed berries. If you want something heartier, add roasted potatoes and greens. Pair with some hot coffee or fresh squeezed orange juice for a perfect brunch setup.
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Tradition Sneak Peek
Dishes like this are a big deal in American brunches—especially in the South and Midwest. They're all about ease and comfort, which is why everyone loves them for holiday get-togethers. Every family switches things up their own way, and that’s what makes it cool.
FAQs About the Recipe
- → Can I use store-bought croissants?
Yep, using croissants from the store is totally fine. Just grab ones that are fresh so your bake turns out really tasty.
- → Are there alternatives to sausage?
Of course! Swapped bacon or turkey sausage works. Or go meatless and sauté mushrooms, spinach, or any veggies you like.
- → Can this dish be frozen before baking?
For sure. Just put it together, wrap up tight, and freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in your fridge overnight before baking the next day.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Just pop leftovers in a sealed container and keep them in the fridge for three days max. Warm up in the microwave or oven whenever you want.
- → Can I swap out the cheese?
Definitely! Try Swiss, mozzarella, or Gruyère. They'll each give the dish their own twist.