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Fluffy Croissant Breakfast Casserole with Cheesy Herb Layers

fluffy croissant breakfast casserole - featured image

A quick and easy breakfast casserole featuring buttery croissants layered with melted cheese and fresh herbs, perfect for brunch and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large buttery croissants, day-old or fresh
  • 8 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk or half-and-half
  • 2 cups shredded Gruyère or sharp white cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
  2. Slice the croissants into roughly 1-inch cubes.
  3. Spread half of the croissant cubes evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the croissants. Scatter half of the chopped herbs evenly over the cheese layer.
  4. Repeat layering with the remaining croissants, cheese, and herbs.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or half-and-half, salt, pepper, and optional Dijon mustard until fully combined and slightly frothy.
  6. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered croissants and cheese. Press gently to help custard soak in.
  7. Let the casserole rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to absorb the custard.
  8. Bake for 45-50 minutes until custard is set, top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Notes

Use day-old croissants for best custard absorption. If top browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking. Let casserole rest before baking to avoid sogginess. Room temperature eggs and milk prevent curdling. Substitute gluten-free croissants or bread for gluten-free version. Dairy-free options available with plant-based milk and cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: croissant casserole, breakfast casserole, brunch recipe, cheesy casserole, herb casserole, easy breakfast, family brunch