Sausage and Cheese Croissant Bake

Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this decadent breakfast bake.

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Pork sausage	1 pound	Remove casing if necessary.
Yellow onion	½	Chopped for flavor.
Eggs	8 large	Forms the base of the custard.
Milk	1 ½ cups	Whole milk preferred.
Ground mustard	2 teaspoons	Adds a subtle tang.
Dried thyme	1 teaspoon	Enhances the savory flavors.
Brown sugar	2 tablespoons	Balances the richness.
Kosher salt	½ teaspoon	Brings out the flavors.
Pepper	½ teaspoon	For seasoning.
Nutmeg	¼ teaspoon	Adds warmth and depth.
Green onions	½ cup	Thinly sliced for garnish.
Croissants	6 large	Cut into 2-inch chunks.
Cheddar cheese	1 ½ cups	Shredded for creamy goodness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage and Onions
   In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles as it browns. Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess grease and set aside.

2. Prepare the Croissants
   Slice six large croissants into 2-inch chunks. Arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading them out evenly.

3. Make the Custard Mixture
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ground mustard, dried thyme, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. This custard will soak into the croissants, adding moisture and flavor.

4. Assemble the Bake
   Scatter the cooked sausage and onions over the croissant chunks. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the entire dish, ensuring every piece of croissant is soaked.

5. Chill for Best Results
   Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.

6. Bake to Perfection
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator, uncover, and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

7. Serve and Enjoy
   Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and serve hot. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple salad for a complete meal.

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Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality croissants, sausage, and cheese make all the difference.
• Let It Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the custard set properly.
• Cover If Browning Too Quickly: If the top starts to brown before the center is set, cover the dish with aluminum foil.

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Customizable Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
• Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for Gruyère, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Add Some Heat: Toss in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Make It Sweeter: Replace the sausage with cooked bacon and add a drizzle of maple syrup.

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Nutritional Information

• Per Serving (Approx.)
  • Calories: 410
  • Protein: 21g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Assemble the bake the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply pop it in the oven for a fresh and flavorful breakfast.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?
   Yes! After baking, let the casserole cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

4. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
   Of course! Pre-cooked sausage can save you time. Simply chop or crumble it and mix it with the onions.

5. Can I use store-bought croissants?
   Yes, store-bought croissants work perfectly. Just make sure they’re buttery and flaky for the best results.

6. What’s the best type of cheese for this dish?
   Cheddar is a classic choice, but Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack are excellent alternatives.

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Why This Recipe Works
The combination of buttery croissants, savory sausage, creamy custard, and melty cheese is irresistible. The custard seeps into the croissants, creating a soft yet flavorful base, while the sausage and cheese add hearty, savory elements. The dish is rich but balanced, making it the perfect centerpiece for any breakfast or brunch spread.

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Conclusion: Make Your Morning Special
With this Sausage and Cheese Croissant Bake, you’ll transform any morning into a celebration. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, creates memories, and fills your home with the most incredible aromas.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, feeding a crowd, or treating yourself to a luxurious breakfast, this recipe is a winner. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.