There is something utterly comforting about a warm, cheesy breakfast bake that brings together the irresistible flavors of crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese—all nestled inside buttery croissant pieces. This Bacon, Egg and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe is my go-to for weekend brunches or when I want to impress guests with minimal fuss but maximum flavor. The layers of texture and savory goodness create a dish that feels like a cozy hug in every bite, making it a new favorite to add to your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a critical role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the smoky bacon to the tender croissants, every addition is essential for making this bake truly stand out.
- Bacon: Crispy and smoky, it adds a salty crunch that infuses the dish with rich flavor.
- Large croissants: Using already baked croissants ensures buttery, flaky layers that soak up the savory custard beautifully.
- Eggs: The protein-packed base that binds everything together with a creamy, custard-like texture.
- Milk: Adds creaminess and helps create the smooth, custardy texture of the bake.
- Garlic powder: Brings subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Onion powder: Adds gentle aromatic notes that enhance the overall savory profile.
- Pepper: A touch of spice to brighten and balance the richness.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors and seasoning every bite perfectly.
- Shredded white cheddar cheese: Creamy and mild, it melts into velvety pockets throughout the bake.
- Shredded mild cheddar cheese: Adds a slightly sharper cheese flavor and beautiful golden topping.
- Chopped chives: A fresh, mild oniony finish that cuts through the richness with a burst of color.
How to Make Bacon, Egg and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon for Crispy Perfection
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a large sheet pan with foil. Lay out the bacon strips in one even layer for consistent cooking. Baking the bacon instead of frying keeps the process tidier and allows the fat to render evenly, resulting in perfectly crispy bacon every time. Once baked for 12 to 14 minutes, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then chop into bite-sized pieces. This smoky, crispy bacon will be a star ingredient throughout the bake.
Step 2: Toast the Croissant Pieces
Next, lower the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. Tear your baked croissants into small, bite-size pieces—this gives delightful texture by allowing the custard to soak in while still retaining some crunch. Spread the croissant pieces evenly in the pan and toast them in the oven for 10 minutes. This step enhances their buttery, flaky texture and helps them hold up nicely once soaked with the egg mixture.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Savory Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adding half of both the shredded white and mild cheddar cheeses into the mixture creates pockets of melty cheese magic within the bake. Pour this rich custard evenly over the toasted croissant pieces, ensuring all pieces get a delicious coating that will soak up every bit of flavor.
Step 4: Layer the Bacon and Finish With Cheese
Sprinkle the chopped, crispy bacon evenly over the custard-soaked croissants, then top with the remaining shredded cheeses for a golden, bubbly finish. This layering guarantees every bite has that irresistible combo of bacon, egg, and cheese that everyone adores.
Step 5: Bake or Refrigerate to Bake Later
You can bake the dish immediately by placing it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes, or cover and refrigerate it overnight for an easy, ready-made breakfast the next day. Baking until the eggs are fully set ensures a creamy and satisfying consistency that holds beautifully when sliced. Once baked, finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives for a pop of color and subtle refreshing bite.
How to Serve Bacon, Egg and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped chives are the classic choice, adding a bright, mildly oniony flavor that cuts through the richness. For a special touch, try a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce to add tang and heat. Some freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese on top right after baking also elevate the visual appeal and taste.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs wonderfully with light and fresh sides. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of fresh sliced fruit adds refreshing contrast. For something heartier, consider crispy roasted potatoes or a simple tomato and cucumber salad. These sides complement the richness without overwhelming.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it straight from the baking dish for family-style comfort, or cut into neat squares and plate individually with garnishes for a brunch gathering. Wrapping leftovers in parchment paper or using mini muffin tins to create individual portions before baking adds a fun twist for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, so eating it the next day can be just as delightful, if not better.
Freezing
You can freeze baked portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy mornings.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving works in a pinch but may make the croissants soft rather than crisp. To revive some crunch, finish reheating under the broiler for a minute or two, watching carefully.
FAQs
Can I use croissant dough instead of baked croissants?
For this recipe, it’s best to use already baked croissants. Using dough would change the texture and baking times significantly. Baked croissants provide the perfect flaky layers to soak up the custard without becoming soggy or doughy.
Is it necessary to toast the croissants before adding the egg mixture?
Yes, toasting helps the croissants hold their shape and texture when the egg custard is poured over. It creates a delightful contrast between crisp edges and soft, custardy interior.
Can I substitute the cheese varieties?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cheeses you love, such as Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella. Just keep in mind that sharper cheeses will change the flavor profile and melt differently.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the bacon or replace it with a vegetarian bacon alternative or smoked tempeh. You won’t get the smoky bacon flavor, but the egg, cheese, and croissant combination remains delicious.
How long can I refrigerate the uncooked casserole before baking?
You can refrigerate the assembled dish, covered tightly, for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for prepping ahead of time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a breakfast that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare, the Bacon, Egg and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe is an absolute winner. The blend of flaky croissants, savory bacon, and creamy cheese custard is comfort food at its finest. Dive in, share it with loved ones, and enjoy every cozy bite—it might just become your new breakfast tradition!
Print
Bacon, Egg and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Croissant Bake is a savory breakfast casserole perfect for a hearty morning meal. Crispy baked bacon, fluffy eggs, melted cheddar cheeses, and buttery croissant pieces combine to create a rich and satisfying dish that can be prepared ahead and baked fresh. Ideal for brunch or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Bacon
- 1 package (10 ounces) bacon
Croissant and Eggs
- 6 to 7 large croissants (already baked, not dough)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese (divided)
Garnish
- 3 tablespoons chopped chives
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a large sheet pan with foil and arrange the bacon strips in a single layer. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until crispy. Transfer bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then chop into pieces and set aside.
- Prepare the Croissants: Lower the oven temperature to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. Tear the croissants into small pieces and spread them evenly in the pan. Toast the croissant pieces in the oven for 10 minutes to develop a slight crispness.
- Mix the Egg Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and half (1/2 cup each) of the shredded white and mild cheddar cheeses until fully combined.
- Assemble the Bake: Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the toasted croissant pieces in the baking pan. Sprinkle the chopped bacon evenly across the top, then add the remaining shredded cheeses on top.
- Bake the Casserole: You can bake immediately or cover and refrigerate overnight for baking the next day. When ready, bake at 350°F for 45 minutes or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped chives for freshness, slice into portions, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can prepare this dish the night before by assembling it and storing it refrigerated, then baking fresh in the morning.
- Using pre-baked croissants is essential; do not use croissant dough as it will alter texture and cooking time.
- Feel free to substitute cheeses according to your preference, but mild and white cheddar blend provides a balanced flavor.
- For a crispier crust, you may broil the top for the last 1-2 minutes—watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Chopped fresh chives add a nice color and mild onion flavor as a garnish but can be omitted if desired.
