Name: Buttery Breakfast Casserole for Cozy Weekend Mornings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 305 min
Ingredients: 8 pieces Croissants (Fresh or slightly stale for best absorption); 1 tablespoon Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (For greasing and sautéing); 4 tablespoons Scallions (Both white and light green parts); 1 pound Sweet Italian Sausage (Can substitute with breakfast or turkey sausage); 2 tablespoons Fresh Sage (Chopped finely for better integration); 6 large Eggs (Forms the custard base); 2 cups Whole Milk (Can substitute with almond milk for dairy-free); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Coconut cream is a great substitute for dairy-free); 1 cup Gruyère Cheese (Grated for even melting); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (To taste); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (To taste); 1 cup Additional Gruyère Cheese (Sprinkle on before baking); 0 Fresh Herbs (Scallion tops or parsley for garnish)

As the sun begins to peek through the kitchen window, the tantalizing scent of buttery croissants mingling with sizzling sausage fills the air—it’s a sign that today is a special breakfast day! This Buttery Breakfast Casserole isn’t just a dish; it’s the ultimate make-ahead solution for busy mornings, ensuring you can savor the little moments instead of being tied to the stove. Perfect for those cozy weekend brunches or festive gatherings, this comforting casserole offers versatile options, allowing you to customize it with your favorite toppings or dairy-free substitutions. Easy to whip up and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. So, are you ready to bring a touch of warmth and joy to your breakfast table? Let’s dive in!

Why is this breakfast casserole irresistible?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just a few easy steps, this Buttery Breakfast Casserole brings homemade comfort to your table without the hassle.

Deliciously Versatile: Swap in your favorite proteins or sneak in veggies, making this dish adaptable for all tastes and dietary needs.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prep it the night before and wake up to a warm, golden casserole ready to impress at brunch!

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Rich, creamy, and beautifully layered, it’s the kind of dish everyone will rave about, making it perfect for gatherings or family meals.

Perfectly Textured: The combination of crispy croissants and a fluffy custard base creates a delightful balance of textures that you simply can’t resist.

For more delicious ideas, check out our Sweet Potato Breakfast or the crowd-favorite Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole!

Buttery Breakfast Casserole Ingredients

• Get ready to indulge in comfort!

For the Casserole

Croissants – Provides a flaky base; choose fresh or slightly stale croissants for best absorption.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Essential for greasing and sautéing, adding a delightful richness.
Scallions – Adds a mild onion flavor; use both the white and light green parts for maximum depth.
Sweet Italian Sausage – Provides hearty protein; feel free to substitute with breakfast or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Fresh Sage – Brings aromatic warmth; chop finely for better integration into your casserole.
Eggs – Forms the custard base; large eggs help bind all the delicious ingredients together.
Whole Milk – Contributes creaminess; swap for almond milk to make this Buttery Breakfast Casserole dairy-free.
Heavy Cream – Adds lovely richness; coconut cream can be a great substitute for a dairy-free version.
Gruyère Cheese – Offers melty texture and flavor; grated Gruyère ensures even melting throughout.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – For seasoning to taste; adjust according to preference before baking.

For Optional Toppings

Additional Gruyère Cheese – A cheesy top layer elevates the flavor; sprinkle on before baking for a delicious finish.
Fresh Herbs – Try scallion tops or parsley for a colorful and flavorful garnish.

This Buttery Breakfast Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a gathering of flavors that will surely become a breakfast staple. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttery Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 500°F (260°C). This high temperature is perfect for toasting the croissants, ensuring they become delightful and crispy. While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Toast Croissants
Cut each croissant in half and place them cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 5-10 minutes, until they are golden and slightly crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool before tearing them into large pieces.

Step 3: Sauté Sausage
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped scallions and sweet Italian sausage, cooking for about 5 minutes or until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Stir in the finely chopped sage for the last minute, releasing its aromatic goodness, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Combine Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the toasted croissant pieces with the sautéed sausage mixture, ensuring everything is evenly distributed. This Buttery Breakfast Casserole starts to take shape as the flavors meld together, making for a robust base that will soak up the custard beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare Custard
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, grated Gruyère cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This creamy custard will bind the casserole, adding richness and flavor to the dish.

Step 6: Layer Casserole
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Spread the croissant and sausage mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Carefully pour the custard mixture over the top, making sure it soaks into the layers. Press down slightly to ensure everything is coated and let it sit.

Step 7: Refrigerate
Cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight if you’re preparing it in advance. This resting period allows the croissants to absorb the custard, creating a moist and flavorful Buttery Breakfast Casserole that’s ready for baking when you are.

Step 8: Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) before removing the casserole from the fridge. Sprinkle additional Gruyère cheese on top for an extra cheesy layer. Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes or until the casserole is golden and firm to the touch. Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Once cooled, you can optionally garnish your Buttery Breakfast Casserole with fresh herbs like scallion tops or parsley for a pop of color. The time to dig in has arrived—serve warm and relish in the flavors of this delightful dish!

Expert Tips for Buttery Breakfast Casserole

Choose the Right Croissants: Use fresh or slightly stale croissants to ensure they absorb the custard without becoming too soggy during baking.
Sauté with Care: Make sure to cook the sausage until fully browned; undercooked sausage can affect the dish’s flavor and safety.
Mind the Custard: Whisk the eggs, milk, and cream thoroughly to prevent any lumps in the custard, ensuring a smooth texture in your Buttery Breakfast Casserole.
Allow for Soaking Time: Let the casserole sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight—this step is crucial for the flavors to meld beautifully.
Check Doneness Carefully: Insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean when the casserole is done. If it’s still jiggly, return it to the oven for a few more minutes.
Embrace Variations: Feel free to experiment with various toppings and add-ins, like veggies or different cheeses, to customize your Buttery Breakfast Casserole to your taste.

Buttery Breakfast Casserole Variations

Customize this comforting casserole to suit your taste buds with these delightful options and twists!

Dairy-Free: Replace whole milk and heavy cream with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free delight.
Protein Swap: Use crispy bacon or diced ham instead of sausage for a different flavor profile.
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and vibrant color.
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary in place of sage for a fragrant twist that livens up the dish.
Cheese Variety: Instead of Gruyère, experiment with cheddar or feta cheese to change up the flavor and texture.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a flavorful kick!
Sweet Twist: Add sweetened cream cheese or a layer of fruit like blueberries for a sweet-savory combination.
Nutty Texture: Top with chopped pecans or walnuts before baking to add a delightful crunch that elevates each bite.

Don’t forget to explore other great recipes like our delicious Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole and satisfying Orange Breakfast Cake!

What to Serve with Buttery Breakfast Casserole?

Indulge in a delicious breakfast spread that beautifully complements this comforting, golden-baked delight.

Crispy Bacon: The smoky, savory flavor of crispy bacon contrasts wonderfully with the creamy casserole, making every bite a flavor explosion.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad adds a vibrant contrast, balancing the richness of the casserole with sweet and tangy notes.
Honey Butter Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits drizzled with honey complement the buttery elements of the casserole and add an irresistible sweetness.
Sweet Potato Hash: This earthy and vibrant side brings a hint of sweetness and spices, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your breakfast table.
Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers a fresh and nutritious contrast, cutting through the richer elements of the dish.
Mimosa: Bubbly and refreshing, a classic mimosa pairs perfectly, adding a celebratory touch to your brunch and enhancing the cozy vibe.

Make Ahead Options

These Buttery Breakfast Casserole components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps and refrigerating after layering the croissant and sausage mixture with the custard. This soaking period helps enhance the flavors, ensuring just as delicious results. To maintain quality, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), add any extra cheese on top, and bake for about 45 minutes until golden. You’ll have a hearty breakfast ready with minimal effort, making those busy mornings a breeze!

How to Store and Freeze Buttery Breakfast Casserole

Fridge: Store the casserole covered in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm up the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze leftovers in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Make-Ahead: You can assemble your Buttery Breakfast Casserole 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Reheating: To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake covered for about 20-30 minutes, then uncover for an additional 10 minutes to achieve a crispy top.

Buttery Breakfast Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of croissants should I use for the casserole?
I highly recommend using fresh or slightly stale croissants for your Buttery Breakfast Casserole. Fresh croissants will provide a delightful flaky texture, while slightly stale ones can absorb the custard better without becoming overly soggy.

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Leftovers from your Buttery Breakfast Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for quick breakfasts or brunches later in the week!

Can I freeze the Buttery Breakfast Casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. For the best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. When ready to enjoy, preheat your oven to 350°F, cover, and bake for about 20-30 minutes, then uncover for an additional 10 minutes to crisp up the top.

What if my casserole turns out too soggy?
If your Buttery Breakfast Casserole turns out soggy, it might be due to insufficient toasting of the croissants or allowing it to sit in the custard for too long before baking. To prevent this, ensure you toast your croissants until golden, and consider reducing the soaking time if you’re using particularly soft croissants.

Are there any allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Yes, this casserole contains dairy and eggs, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. For a dairy-free option, substitute the milk with almond milk and the cream with coconut cream, and replace the cheese with a dairy-free alternative. Always ensure to check for any additional dietary restrictions and choose suitable ingredients!