Introduction
Prepare yourself for a delicious and hearty dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the rich flavors of Gruyère cheese and buttery croissants. This dish is the perfect balance of savory and creamy, making it ideal for brunch, breakfast, or even a comforting dinner. With simple, fresh ingredients and a few hours of prep, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing bake that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
5 to 7 large croissants, sliced in half lengthwise
8 ounces Gruyère cheese, freshly grated
8 large eggs
2½ cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
Parmesan cheese, for topping
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Prep Time
60 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 to 50 minutes
Total Time: 9 hours (including refrigeration)
Yield: Serves 6-8 people
This delectable croissant bake infused with caramelized onions and thyme is sure to become a beloved dish in your recipe collection. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures that make every bite delightful!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Caramelize the Onions:
– Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized, about 60 to 90 minutes.
– In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the minced garlic and 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh thyme. Stir to combine and cook until fragrant.
Prepare the Croissants:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Place the croissant halves on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until they are lightly golden and crisp, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Assemble the Bake:
– Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
– Arrange the toasted croissant halves in the dish.
– Evenly distribute the caramelized onion mixture over the croissants.
– Sprinkle the freshly grated Gruyère cheese over the onions.
Prepare the Custard:
– In a large bowl, whisk together 8 large eggs, 2½ cups of milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
Combine and Refrigerate:
– Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants, onions, and cheese in the baking dish.
– Gently press down on the croissants to ensure they absorb the custard.
– Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 8 hours.
Bake:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
– Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
– Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
Serve:
– Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before serving.
– Garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired.
Notes
Onion Caramelization:
– Make sure to stir the onions occasionally to prevent them from burning and ensure even cooking.
Croissant Selection:
– Use high-quality, buttery croissants for the best flavor and texture.
Cheese Options:
– Gruyère can be substituted with other cheeses like Swiss or cheddar if desired.
Make Ahead:
– This dish can be prepared the night before, making it perfect for brunch gatherings.
Serving Suggestions:
– Consider serving with a side salad for a balanced meal.
Cook techniques
Caramelizing Onions
Caramelizing onions involves slowly cooking them in olive oil over medium heat, allowing the natural sugars to develop and deepen in color. This process takes about 60 to 90 minutes for the onions to become rich and sweet. Adding garlic and thyme in the last minutes of cooking enhances the flavor.
Toasting Croissants
Toasting croissants can be done by placing halved croissants on a baking sheet and heating them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This step gives them a delightful crispness that complements the softness of the custard.
Making a Custard
A custard is created by whisking together eggs, milk, and cream until smooth. Seasoning the mixture with salt and pepper before pouring it over the other ingredients ensures balanced flavor throughout the dish.
Refrigerating Overnight
Allowing the assembled dish to sit in the refrigerator overnight lets the croissants absorb the custard, resulting in a moist and flavorful bake. It’s essential to let the dish rest for at least 8 hours for the best texture.
Baking the Dish
Bake the dish uncovered in a preheated oven to help achieve a golden-brown top. The baking time of 45 to 50 minutes ensures that the custard is set, while the Parmesan cheese adds a savory crust.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese instead of Gruyère?
Yes, you can substitute Gruyère with cheeses like Swiss, Cheddar, or Fontina, depending on your taste preference.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover baked croissant casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for preparing the night before. Just assemble and refrigerate overnight before baking in the morning.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a light salad or some fresh fruit for a balanced meal, especially for brunch.
Can I use day-old croissants?
Day-old croissants work well for this recipe, as they are a bit drier, helping them absorb the custard better without becoming overly soggy.
Conclusion
This sumptuous croissant and caramelized onion bake is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The rich Gruyère cheese, sweet onions, and the buttery croissants come together beautifully in this satisfying dish. Ideal for brunch or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and family alike.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spinach and Feta Croissant Bake
Substitute the caramelized onions with sautéed spinach and crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist.
Mushroom and Swiss Cheese Bake
Use sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese instead of Gruyère to create an earthy and cheesy flavor profile.
Tomato and Basil Croissant Bake
Add layers of sliced tomatoes and fresh basil to the onion mixture for a fresh and vibrant dish.
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Bake
Incorporate smoked salmon and dollops of cream cheese for a luxurious brunch option that is full of flavor.
Savory Ham and Broccoli Bake
Add cooked ham and blanched broccoli florets for a hearty and satisfying meal with a touch of green.
Sweet Potato and Goat Cheese Bake
Incorporate roasted sweet potatoes and crumbled goat cheese for a unique, sweet, and tangy flavor combination.
