Name: Croissant Breakfast Casserole with Savory Sausage and Cheddar Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 9 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, peeled and diced; 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild flavor); 4 large croissants or 8 small croissants, torn into large bite-size pieces; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 6 large eggs; ½ cup heavy whipping cream; 3 cups whole milk, divided; ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder; ½ teaspoon salt, plus additional to taste; ½ teaspoon black pepper, plus additional to taste; ¼ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon reserved sausage fat (from cooking sausage); 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 ½ cups whole milk (remaining from the 3 cups total); Salt and pepper to taste

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If you are searching for a breakfast that feels like a warm morning hug, the Croissant Breakfast Casserole with Savory Sausage and Cheddar Recipe is an absolute delight you won’t want to miss. This dish combines buttery, flaky croissants with rich, flavorful sausage and sharp cheddar cheese to create a hearty yet tender casserole that’s perfect for sharing with family or friends. Its make-ahead nature means mornings can be relaxed without sacrificing a homemade, comforting meal. Each bite bursts with savory layers and a custardy texture that truly elevates breakfast into something special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A light green bowl holds three main layers arranged side by side. On the left, there is a thick layer of bright orange shredded cheese. In the middle, large pieces of soft, torn bread with a golden-brown crust and fluffy inside pile up. On the right, cooked ground meat with small pieces of light brown onion is packed, showing a textured and crumbly look. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a white and blue checkered cloth blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients may seem simple, but each plays a crucial role in building the irresistible flavors and textures of this Croissant Breakfast Casserole with Savory Sausage and Cheddar Recipe. From the buttery croissants to the creamy custard that binds everything, every element is essential.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing onions and sausage, adding a subtle fruity note while preventing sticking.
Small onion: Adds sweetness and a delicate, caramelized base flavor to balance the sausage.
Breakfast sausage (1 lb): Provides savory richness and the signature meaty punch to the casserole.
Croissants (4 large or 8 small): The star carbohydrate, offering a flaky, buttery texture that soaks up the custard beautifully.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Brings sharpness and gooey creaminess that melds everything together.
Large eggs (6): Essential for creating the custardy base that holds the casserole perfectly.
Heavy whipping cream (½ cup): Adds richness and a silky texture to the custard mixture.
Whole milk (3 cups, divided): Used for the custard and the creamy gravy, balancing richness and helping achieve the right consistency.
Dry mustard powder (½ tsp): A subtle kick that brightens the custard flavors.
Salt (½ tsp plus extra): Amplifies every flavor and seasons the gravy to taste.
Black pepper (½ tsp plus extra): Adds warmth and a gentle spice that pairs wonderfully with the sausage.
Paprika (¼ tsp): Brings a touch of smoky sweetness and beautiful color.
Garlic powder (¼ tsp): Complements savory ingredients with a mellow, aromatic depth.
Butter (2 tbsp): Used in making the gravy, enriching the sauce with silky mouthfeel.
All-purpose flour (3 tbsp): Helps thicken the gravy into a luscious consistency.

How to Make Croissant Breakfast Casserole with Savory Sausage and Cheddar Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Cook the Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until they are soft and translucent. This step develops sweetness that enhances the overall flavor. Next, crumble in the breakfast sausage and cook until it is fully browned, letting the savory aroma fill your kitchen. Once done, drain excess fat carefully—don’t toss it because it will be saved for the gravy, adding phenomenal depth.

Step 2: Assemble the Base Layers

In a large bowl, combine your cooked sausage and onions with torn croissant pieces and shredded cheddar cheese. Toss gently until evenly mixed. Then, transfer this hearty mixture to a greased 9×13-inch glass baking dish, spreading it out so every bite gets a perfect medley of all ingredients.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Custard Mixture

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy whipping cream, ½ cup of whole milk, dry mustard powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder until smooth. This mixture will soak into the croissants, transforming them into a tender and custardy delight.

Step 4: Combine and Refrigerate Overnight

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant and sausage mixture in your baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least eight hours or preferably overnight. This step allows the croissants to absorb the custard fully, ensuring each bite is rich and cohesive.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the casserole from the fridge and place it uncovered into the oven. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes until the top is beautifully golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell baking alone will make it impossible to wait!

Step 6: Prepare the Savory Gravy

While the casserole bakes, start your sausage gravy by melting butter and one tablespoon of the reserved sausage fat in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about a minute, creating a roux that will thicken your gravy. Then, slowly add the remaining 2 ½ cups of milk, whisking constantly to keep it smooth. Let the gravy simmer gently until thickened, stirring often. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Plate and Serve

Once out of the oven, slice your Croissant Breakfast Casserole with Savory Sausage and Cheddar Recipe into generous portions. Serve with piping hot gravy on the side or ladled on top for that extra creamy goodness everyone will love.

How to Serve Croissant Breakfast Casserole with Savory Sausage and Cheddar Recipe

The dish is a baked casserole with a rough, uneven surface made of several layers. The top layer is golden brown with darker, crispy spots, showing melted cheese mixed with browned ground meat spread unevenly over the surface. Underneath, there are chunks of soft, slightly browned bread that seem soaked with the egg and cheese mixture, giving a textured, bubbly look. The colors range from light yellow to deep golden orange, with some darker brown burnt bits scattered on top. The casserole is inside a clear glass baking dish on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or parsley adds a fresh, vibrant color and mild oniony flavor that contrasts beautifully with the warm, savory casserole. A light dusting of smoked paprika can also enhance both aroma and appearance, making the dish even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness or some fresh fruit like berries and orange slices to add a bright, juicy contrast. For a cozy brunch feel, classic hash browns or roasted breakfast potatoes are excellent accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch—perfect for brunch gatherings. Another idea is to layer it in a clear glass baking dish to showcase the beautiful layers of croissant, sausage, and cheese soaking in custard, making your presentation as delectable as the taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers should be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for quick, delicious breakfasts or snacks that feel like a treat rather than a chore.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully if you want to prepare it way in advance. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftover casserole slices in a conventional oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving works too—cover with a damp paper towel to keep moisture, heating in short bursts to retain texture. Warm your gravy gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! While cheddar gives a sharp, classic flavor, you can try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a mix of cheeses for different taste profiles and textures.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole overnight?

Yes, refrigerating overnight allows the croissant pieces to soak up the custard fully, resulting in a perfectly tender and cohesive bake. If you’re short on time, a few hours can still work, but overnight is best.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the sausage and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or a medley of bell peppers and spinach for a satisfying vegetarian twist.

What if I don’t have croissants? Can I use another bread?

You can substitute with brioche or any sturdy flaky bread, but croissants are ideal for their buttery flakiness which absorbs the custard in a special way that elevates this recipe.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

This Croissant Breakfast Casserole with Savory Sausage and Cheddar Recipe truly transforms any morning into something extraordinary. It’s the perfect way to impress guests or treat your loved ones to a homemade breakfast that tastes both indulgent and comforting. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes a treasured favorite in your breakfast lineup!

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