There’s nothing quite like a hearty and indulgent breakfast to start your day off right. And when it comes to breakfast indulgence, Croissant Bacon and Egg Casserole takes center stage. This dish combines the buttery flakiness of croissants with crispy bacon, creamy eggs, and a savory cheese blend to create a breakfast masterpiece. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just craving a comforting morning meal, this recipe will surely satisfy your taste buds and make your breakfast memorable.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 6 large croissants, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
For the Topping (Optional):
- Additional shredded cheese
- Sliced green onions
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Preparing the Croissant Bacon and Egg Casserole:
- Begin by tearing the croissants into bite-sized pieces. You can use day-old croissants for the best results, as they absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
- Place half of the torn croissants in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the crumbled bacon over the croissants.
- Layer half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining croissants, bacon, and cheeses.
Creating the Egg Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant, bacon, and cheese layers in the baking dish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the croissants to soak up the delicious egg mixture.
Baking the Casserole:
- When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes while the oven heats.
- Bake the casserole, covered with foil, in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, uncover the casserole and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and the center is set. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
Serving:
- Once the Croissant Bacon and Egg Casserole is baked to perfection, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- If desired, garnish with additional shredded cheese, sliced green onions, and chopped fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
- Slice and serve this delightful breakfast casserole while it’s warm. Enjoy the creamy, savory, and buttery goodness of this morning masterpiece.
Variations and Tips
- Add Veggies: Feel free to incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy a bit of heat in your breakfast.
- Meat Variations: Substitute the bacon with cooked sausage, ham, or turkey bacon for different flavor profiles.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
Croissant Bacon and Egg Casserole is a breakfast delight that combines the rich, buttery goodness of croissants with the savory allure of bacon and cheese. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just treating your family to a memorable breakfast, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. So, preheat your oven, assemble the layers of deliciousness, and let the aroma of this breakfast masterpiece fill your kitchen. With each bite, savor the comfort and indulgence of a breakfast that’s truly special. Enjoy!
