Name: A Decadent Breakfast Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: PT-488454H48M32S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8–10 small or medium croissants, preferably stale; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb breakfast sausage; 1/2 yellow onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature; 2 cups white cheddar, grated (divided: 1 1/2 cups for filling, 1/2 cup for topping); 10 eggs; 1 1/4 cups half-and-half; 3 green onions, sliced; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons hot sauce; 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning; Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving something that transforms a regular morning meal into a culinary celebration, this recipe for A Decadent Breakfast will sweep you off your feet. Imagine the warm, buttery layers of croissants soaked in a luscious custard, filled with savory breakfast sausage, sharp cheddar, and vibrant veggies all baked to golden perfection. This dish brings together richness, texture, and a touch of spice to turn your breakfast into an unforgettable experience that’s worth waking up for every single day.

A Decadent Breakfast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, creating layers of flavor and texture that make A Decadent Breakfast truly spectacular. Simple yet essential, these ingredients blend savory, creamy, and tangy notes beautifully.

8–10 small or medium croissants: Stale croissants are best to absorb the custard well, ensuring a moist and flavorful base.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds depth and helps sauté the sausage and vegetables without sticking.
1 lb breakfast sausage: Provides a rich, seasoned foundation full of savory goodness.
1/2 yellow onion, diced: Offers sweetness and aromatic complexity when cooked.
1 red bell pepper, diced: Brings a burst of color and a touch of natural sweetness.
4 oz cream cheese, room temperature: Adds creamy tanginess and binds the filling.
2 cups white cheddar, grated: Sharp and melty, it lends a golden, cheesy layer you’ll adore.
3 green onions, sliced: Introduces fresh, bright notes that balance richness.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Infuses a warm, smoky undertone that elevates the flavor.
10 eggs: Creates the custard base, holding everything together beautifully.
1 1/4 cups half-and-half: Ensures a creamy, smooth custard without being too heavy.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick that cuts through the richness.
2 tablespoons hot sauce: Offers a subtle heat that awakens the taste buds.
2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning: Delivers crunch and a savory spice mix on top.
Kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper: Essential for perfectly balanced seasoning.

How to Make A Decadent Breakfast

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Veggies

Begin by warming your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage and break it into small pieces as it cooks until beautifully browned and cooked through. Then toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper, sautéing them until the onions are translucent and the peppers soften slightly. This brings out the natural sweetness in the vegetables, complementing the savory sausage perfectly. Once ready, remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cooled sausage and vegetable mixture with the room-temperature cream cheese, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar, paprika, and sliced green onions. Stir thoroughly until everything melds together into a rich, creamy, and flavorful filling. The cream cheese helps everything bind, creating a luscious texture that makes every bite a delight.

Step 3: Prep the Croissants

Slice your croissants in half lengthwise to reveal their soft interiors. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and place the bottom halves snugly in a single layer, creating the sturdy base for your casserole. Evenly distribute the sausage filling on top of these croissant bottoms, then cover with the remaining croissant halves. This layering ensures the custard soaks in perfectly around the filling.

Step 4: Mix the Custard

In a blender or large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, salt, and pepper until fully combined into a smooth, creamy custard. If mixing by hand, beat until the egg whites and yolks are fully incorporated. This custard is the heart of your dish, providing moisture, richness, and that irresistible custardy texture.

Step 5: Pour and Set

Reserve about 2 tablespoons of custard for brushing the top later. Pour the remaining custard gently over the croissants, allowing it to soak into every nook and cranny. Cover the dish tightly with foil and let it rest at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or better yet, overnight in the fridge. This resting time lets the croissants fully absorb the custard, setting the stage for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Before baking, brush the casserole tops with the reserved custard, then generously sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning and the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the dish and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the custard is set and the top is golden and crisp. Let the casserole cool slightly for 10 minutes before slicing to enjoy that perfect slice of A Decadent Breakfast.

How to Serve A Decadent Breakfast

Garnishes

A sprinkle of additional sliced green onions or fresh chives adds a lovely pop of color and fresh oniony brightness that contrasts beautifully with the dish’s rich and creamy texture. You might also consider a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for some extra kick and tang.

Side Dishes

Pairing this decadent creation with a light, refreshing fruit salad or a tossed green salad can balance the richness perfectly. Fresh berries or citrus segments provide a juicy contrast, keeping the meal satisfying without feeling too heavy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve this casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for an elegant, personal touch. Layering the casserole in a clear glass dish also beautifully showcases the croissants and filling, making it as visually impressive as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your A Decadent Breakfast, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, maintaining most of its moist and cheesy goodness.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. For best results, consume within 1 to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy again.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This method helps retain the crispy top and creamy interior much better than a microwave, preserving that decadent texture you’re after.

FAQs

Can I use fresh croissants instead of stale ones?

Yes, fresh croissants can work, but it’s best to let them sit out for a few hours to dry slightly. This helps them soak up the custard more effectively, preventing sogginess and ensuring every bite is flavorful.

What can I substitute for breakfast sausage?

If breakfast sausage isn’t your favorite, ground pork, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage alternatives work well. Just be mindful of seasoning adjustments based on what you choose.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a medley of your favorite vegetables. You can also add vegetarian sausage for a similar texture and flavor profile.

Is it possible to add other cheeses?

While white cheddar works beautifully here, you can experiment with gouda, fontina, or a sharp Monterey Jack. Just keep in mind the melting qualities and adjust amounts to taste.

How long should the casserole soak before baking?

Allowing it to rest for at least 1 hour at room temperature ensures the croissants soak up the custard well. For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the casserole overnight before baking, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely believe that trying out this recipe for A Decadent Breakfast will add a whole new level of joy to your mornings. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weekend or serving guests, this dish will impress with its perfect balance of comfort and creativity. So grab those croissants and get ready to delight in something truly special—you deserve it!

A Decadent Breakfast Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 14 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes plus 1 hour resting time
Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

This decadent breakfast casserole combines buttery croissants, savory breakfast sausage, creamy cheese, and a flavorful custard made with eggs and half-and-half. Enhanced with sautéed vegetables, spices, and everything bagel seasoning, it offers a perfect balance of richness, texture, and warmth. Ideal for a special brunch or weekend breakfast, this dish can be prepared ahead for convenience and impressive flavor.

Instructions

Brown the meat and veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned and fully cooked. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, sautéing until the vegetables are soft and onions translucent. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooled sausage mixture with cream cheese, 1 1/2 cups of shredded white cheddar, paprika, and sliced green onions. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and evenly blended.
Prep the croissants: Cut croissants in half lengthwise. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the bottom halves snugly in the dish in a single layer. Evenly distribute the sausage filling over them, then top with the croissant halves to enclose the filling.
Mix the custard: In a blender or bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth and uniform with no streaks.
Pour and set: Reserve 2 tablespoons of custard for brushing the top. Pour remaining custard evenly over the croissant casserole making sure to soak every part. Cover with foil and let it rest for at least 1 hour at room temperature or overnight in the fridge to allow croissants to absorb the custard.
Bake the casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush casserole top with reserved custard, then sprinkle everything bagel seasoning and remaining shredded cheddar cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 15–20 minutes more until eggs are set and top is golden brown and crisp. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional sliced green onions for freshness.

Notes

Using stale croissants ensures better absorption of the custard, yielding a moist interior.
You can prepare the casserole up to the point before baking and refrigerate overnight for convenience and enhanced flavor melding.
Adjust hot sauce according to your preferred spice level.
If breakfast sausage is unavailable, ground pork or turkey with similar seasoning can be used.
For a gluten-free version, substitute croissants with gluten-free bread or biscuits.
Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it firm up for easier slicing and serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking, Sautéing
Cuisine: American