Name: Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Croissants (about 5 to 7, split in half lengthwise); 1 tablespoon Olive oil; 1 bunch Scallions (white part sliced thinly); ¾ pound Italian sausage (casings removed); 2 teaspoons Sage (finely chopped fresh); 8 Eggs; 3 cups Whole milk; 1 cup Heavy cream; 8 ounces Gruyère cheese (grated (2 cups)); 1 ¼ teaspoons Kosher salt; 1 teaspoon Black pepper

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that combines flaky croissants and creamy goodness, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in this Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole. Growing up, breakfast was always a special affair, especially on weekends when we had the time to linger over our meals. I remember my family huddled around the table, laughter and stories filling the air, as we enjoyed hearty dishes that brought us closer together. This casserole is inspired by those cherished moments, transforming classic flavors into a warm, inviting dish that’s sure to impress.

Imagine waking up on a chilly fall morning, the aroma of baked croissants mingling with the savory scent of sausage. It’s the perfect way to start the day! What I love most about this Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole is how it brings together layers of rich flavors and textures. You have the buttery croissants that soak up the custard perfectly, while the sausages and fresh herbs add a delightful depth. It’s more than just breakfast; it’s a way to create memories that linger long after the plates are cleared.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch with friends or simply treating your family to something special, this casserole is as easy to prepare as it is delicious. You can prep it the night before and pop it in the oven when you wake up, letting the anticipation build as it bakes. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy the same warm, cozy feeling it brings to my kitchen!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
600 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
40 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Oven, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet

What You’ll Enjoy About This Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole

Effortless Preparation

One of the reasons I absolutely love this Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole is its simplicity. With a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that tastes as if you spent hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time, making it perfect for those busy mornings or special occasions.

Hearty and Satisfying

This casserole is not just a breakfast option; it’s a whole meal in itself. The combination of flaky croissants and savory sausage makes it hearty enough to keep you full and satisfied all morning long. You won’t need to reach for snacks or feel hungry again soon after. It’s perfect for weekend brunches or even a cozy dinner.

Perfect for Gathering

There’s something about a casserole that brings people together. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, ideal for sharing with friends and family. This Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole is a crowd-pleaser and is bound to spark conversation and create lasting memories around the table.

Layered Flavors

The balance of flavors in this casserole is simply delightful. You have the buttery flavor of the croissants, the richness of the eggs and cream, and the savory notes from the sausage and sage. Each bite is an explosion of deliciousness, and it’s hard to stop at just one serving!

Seasonal Comfort

As the weather cools down, this dish becomes even more inviting. It’s a fantastic way to embrace the flavors of fall. The combination of comfort food and seasonal ingredients makes it a must-try during this time of year.

Versatile Dish

This recipe can also be easily adapted to suit your taste. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, cheeses, or even add in some veggies for a twist. The possibilities are endless, making it a great go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients Required for Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole

The ingredients for this Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole are simple yet impactful. Each plays a vital role in creating the rich and satisfying flavors that this dish is known for. At the heart of it are the buttery croissants, which provide a wonderful texture and absorb the custard mixture beautifully, making each bite a treat. The sausage adds savory notes, and the herbs infuse freshness, balancing the richness of the cream and eggs.

Croissants: 1 pound, split in half lengthwise. The star of the show, these flaky pastries soak up the custard and create a soft base.
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon. Used to sauté the scallions and sausage, it adds depth and flavor to the dish.
Scallions: 1 bunch, white part sliced thinly. These add a mild onion flavor that complements the sausage beautifully.
Italian sausage: ¾ pound, casings removed. Provides a hearty, savory component that makes this casserole truly satisfying.
Sage: 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh. This herb adds a lovely aromatic quality to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
Eggs: 8. They create the custard base that binds everything together.
Whole milk: 3 cups. Helps create a creamy texture that makes each bite rich and delicious.
Heavy cream: 1 cup. This adds an extra layer of richness and creaminess to the casserole.
Gruyère cheese: 8 ounces, grated (2 cups). A nutty cheese that melts beautifully, adding flavor and texture.
Kosher salt: 1 ¼ teaspoons. Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
Black pepper: 1 teaspoon. Adds a touch of heat to balance the richness.

Recipe Directions for Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole

Making this Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole is a breeze, and the process is just as enjoyable as the final product. Follow these steps to create a hearty dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Let’s get started!

First, heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This is important because you want to toast the croissants until they’re golden brown. Spread the croissants on a large baking sheet, cut side up, and toast them for about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning; they should be beautifully golden and fragrant.
Once toasted, remove the croissants from the oven and let them cool. When cool enough to handle, tear them into large bite-size pieces. This step not only helps with texture but also ensures they soak up the custard perfectly.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced scallions and the Italian sausage. Cook, breaking the sausage apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and crumbled, which should take about 5 minutes. The goal is to cook it until it’s nice and crumbled, blending the flavors with the scallions.
Once the sausage is cooked, stir in the sage, and then remove the skillet from the heat. The warmth will release the flavors of the sage, enhancing the mixture even more.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the pieces of croissant along with the sausage and scallion mixture until well combined. This will ensure that each piece is filled with flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream until smooth. This mixture will serve as the custard that binds the casserole together. Then mix in 1½ cups of the Gruyère cheese, along with kosher salt and black pepper.
Now it’s time to combine everything. Pour the custard mixture over the croissant and sausage mixture in the large bowl, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Prepare a 9 x 13-inch baking dish by coating it with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the croissant mixture into the pan, spreading it out evenly for even cooking.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the croissants to soak up the custard fully, ensuring a rich texture.
When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the plastic wrap and sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese over the top of the casserole. This step is crucial for that cheesy, bubbly topping we all love.
Now, bake the casserole in the oven for about 45 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and set. You’ll know it’s done when it looks puffy and golden. Let it stand for about 10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle.

Expert Tips about Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole

To ensure you get the most out of your Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole, here are some expert tips:

Storage: Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This casserole keeps well and can be reheated in the oven for a quick breakfast!
Freezing: You can freeze this casserole before baking. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Pairing: This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt to balance the richness of the dish.
Variations: Don’t be afraid to customize this casserole! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Serving: Serve this dish warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a dusting of powdered sugar for a nice touch. It can also be enjoyed as a cozy dinner option!

How to Enjoy Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole

Enjoying your Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole is about more than just serving it on a plate; it’s about creating an experience. Here are some ideas on how to enjoy this delightful dish:

Brunch Gatherings: This casserole is perfect for brunch gatherings. Serve it with mimosas or fresh juice for a festive touch.
Family Breakfast: Make it a family tradition to enjoy this on weekends. It encourages everyone to sit together and savor the time spent.
Seasonal Celebrations: Consider making this dish for Thanksgiving or holiday breakfasts. It adds a unique twist to traditional breakfast fare.
Cozy Dinners: Don’t limit this dish to breakfast; it’s hearty enough for dinner, especially when served with a light salad on the side.
Your Favorite Company: Enjoy it with friends over a cozy night in, making it a part of your entertaining repertoire.
Leftover Delight: If you have leftovers, try reheating them for a quick meal. It’s just as delicious the next day!

FAQ

Absolutely! One of the best features of the Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole is that you can prepare it the night before. Just follow the recipe instructions until you’re ready to bake. Cover the dish with plastic wrap after pouring the custard over the croissant mixture, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the croissants to soak up the custard fully, resulting in a deliciously rich breakfast the next morning.

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad or a breakfast smoothie for a balanced meal. You could also serve it with a light yogurt on the side to add some tanginess that complements the rich flavors. For special occasions, mimosas or freshly squeezed juice would make a lovely accompaniment.

While croissants provide a unique texture and flavor, you can certainly experiment with other types of bread. Brioche or challah would be great alternatives, adding their own sweetness and richness to the dish. Just ensure that the bread you choose is sturdy enough to hold up when soaked in the custard mixture.

The Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole is done when it’s golden brown on top and the custard is set, which usually takes about 45 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. A good test is to insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean. Let the casserole stand for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Conclusion

The Sausage Croissant French Toast Casserole truly embodies the comfort of home-cooked meals, blending savory and creamy elements into a dish that warms the heart. With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, it’s an irresistible choice for any gathering or family breakfast. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own cherished moments around the table. It’s a dish that’s bound to become a favorite in your household.