Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Name: Croissant Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 6 large croissants (cut into quarters); 8 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1 cup chopped bell peppers; 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Start your day with a delightful croissant breakfast casserole, a dish that transforms buttery croissants into a savory, egg-based delight. This casserole is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for serving a crowd. With layers of cheese, colorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it’s a breakfast that feels indulgent yet simple. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this deliciously comforting dish!

Ingredients

– 6 large croissants, cut into quarters
– 8 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
– 1 cup chopped bell peppers
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 30-35 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g fat, 15g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Cut the croissants into quarters and place them in the dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the egg mixture.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants.
Sprinkle chopped bell peppers and spinach over the top.
Add shredded cheese on top of the vegetables.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the eggs are set.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving, garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

If you want to customize your casserole, feel free to substitute croissants with brioche or bagels. You can also use any cheese you prefer, or add cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor.

Serving and Pairings

This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad. For beverages, consider serving it with orange juice or coffee for a complete breakfast experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This casserole can also be frozen before baking; just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Cooking Mistakes

Using stale croissants can result in a dry casserole.
Not whisking the eggs thoroughly may leave clumps.
Overbaking can lead to a rubbery texture.
Forgetting to grease the dish can cause sticking.
Skipping the salt may lead to blandness.

Helpful Tips

Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before cutting.
Use a variety of vegetables for added color and nutrition.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.
Consider adding herbs like chives or parsley for freshness.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time in the morning.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this croissant breakfast casserole is vegetarian as it primarily uses eggs and vegetables.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain them before adding to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar cheese is popular, but you can also use mozzarella, feta, or a cheese blend for different flavors.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The casserole is done when the egg is fully set and no longer jiggly in the center, typically taking about 30-35 minutes.

Conclusion

The croissant breakfast casserole is a versatile and delightful dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy family breakfast, it brings together the rich flavors of croissants and a savory egg mixture. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, this casserole is a must-try for any breakfast lover!