Croissant Breakfast Sandwich Bake
Highlighted under: Cozy Collection
When I first made this Croissant Breakfast Sandwich Bake, I never expected the combination of flaky croissants, cheesy eggs, and savory sausage would create such a delightful dish. Each bite offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience that transforms a classic breakfast into a lavish brunch centerpiece. Perfect for gatherings, this bake is not only easy to prepare, but it also feeds a crowd, making mornings feel special without the fuss. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it a regular part of your breakfast routine.
I remember the first time I served this Croissant Breakfast Sandwich Bake to friends over brunch. Their faces lit up with joy as they took their first bites. The buttery croissants soaked up all the rich flavors from the eggs and sausage, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. It's a perfect way to start the day!
In crafting this recipe, I ensured that the ingredients melded together beautifully. Using a mix of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella adds depth, while a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before baking really finishes it off. I highly recommend letting it sit for a few minutes after baking; it helps everything set up nicely for serving.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Flaky croissants that create a beautiful texture contrast
- Savory and cheesy filling that satisfies every bite
- Easily customizable with your favorite breakfast meats and cheeses
Understanding the Ingredients
The standout ingredient in this Croissant Breakfast Sandwich Bake is undoubtedly the flaky croissants. Their buttery layers provide a rich base, capturing the savory custard of eggs, cheese, and sausage beautifully. Opting for day-old croissants can enhance the texture, giving them a slightly firmer base that holds up to the egg mixture, preventing them from becoming overly soggy during baking. This adaptability in texture adds to the overall experience of each bite.
Choosing the right cheese is crucial for achieving that melty, gooey filling. Cheddar offers a sharp tang that complements the richness of the sausage, while mozzarella brings a sweetness and stretchy consistency that elevates the dish. Feel free to experiment with smoked gouda or pepper jack for a different twist, but ensure any cheese you use melts well to avoid creating a rubbery texture.
Perfecting the Baking Process
When pouring the egg mixture over the croissants, aim for an even distribution to ensure each croissant half is coated. I recommend using a spatula to gently press the croissants down, helping them soak up the egg mixture completely. This step is key to achieving a custardy consistency instead of a dry bake. If you find the top hasn’t browned beautifully after 30 minutes, consider broiling it for a minute or two for that golden finish, but watch closely to avoid burning.
After baking, let the dish rest for at least five minutes before serving. This allows the eggs to set further and makes cutting and serving much easier. A warm knife will help slice through layers without tearing the croissants, allowing for perfect servings that showcase the luscious filling inside.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your Croissant Breakfast Sandwich Bake:
Ingredients
- 4 large croissants, cut in half
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cooked sausage, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like chives or parsley), for garnish
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your bake:
Prepare the Croissants
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish. Place the bottom halves of the croissants in the dish.
Mix the Filling
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cheeses and crumbled sausage.
Assemble the Bake
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant halves in the dish. Top with the remaining croissant halves.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the egg is set and the top is golden brown.
Garnish and Serve
Allow to cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers into the egg mixture for added nutrition and flavor!
Customization Options
One of the joys of this dish is its customizability. You can swap out the sausage for cooked bacon or ham, or even use a vegetarian sausage substitute to cater to dietary preferences. If you're looking for a lighter option, incorporating sautéed vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can provide additional flavor and nutrients while complementing the other ingredients without overpowering their delicate balance.
Don't hesitate to change up the herbs for garnish as well. Fresh basil or thyme can add an aromatic touch that brightens the dish. Alternatively, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving for a spicy kick that can greatly enhance the flavor profile and appeal to those who enjoy a bit of heat in their breakfast.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you're planning for a big brunch, this recipe is easily prepared ahead of time. You can assemble the dish the night before, pouring the egg mixture over the croissants and covering the baking dish with plastic wrap. Just be sure to remove the wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to avoid shocking the eggs with too much cold at once, which can lead to uneven cooking.
Another great make-ahead strategy is to pre-cook and crumble the sausage, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld better overnight. Simply reheating the sausage in a skillet before mixing with the egg mixture ensures everything is warmed through and ready to create that delicious breakfast bake.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
→ What can I use instead of croissants?
You can use brioche or any other buttery bread as a substitute.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before baking. Just thaw before baking and then cook as instructed.
Croissant Breakfast Sandwich Bake
When I first made this Croissant Breakfast Sandwich Bake, I never expected the combination of flaky croissants, cheesy eggs, and savory sausage would create such a delightful dish. Each bite offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience that transforms a classic breakfast into a lavish brunch centerpiece. Perfect for gatherings, this bake is not only easy to prepare, but it also feeds a crowd, making mornings feel special without the fuss. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it a regular part of your breakfast routine.
Created by: Elodie March
Recipe Type: Cozy Collection
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 large croissants, cut in half
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cooked sausage, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like chives or parsley), for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish. Place the bottom halves of the croissants in the dish.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cheeses and crumbled sausage.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant halves in the dish. Top with the remaining croissant halves.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the egg is set and the top is golden brown.
Allow to cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers into the egg mixture for added nutrition and flavor!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 590mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 16g