6large day-old croissants or 12 small, roughly torn
2tablespoonsolive oil
1tablespoonbutter, plus more to rub on baking dish
3cupsmixed mushrooms,stems trimmed and sliced
2leeks,white and light green parts only, washed and thinly sliced
1small onion,chopped
2teaspoonskosher salt,plus more to taste
¼teaspoonground black pepper
2tablespoonschopped fresh sage leaves
2tablespoonschopped fresh tarragon leaves
4extra-large eggs,beaten
1½cupsheavy cream
2cupschicken or veggie stock
1cupgrated Gruyère cheese,divided
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the croissant bread cubes on a sheet pan and bake for 10 minutes, until lightly browned. Set aside.
Meanwhile, heat the oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large (12-inch) sauté pan over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes, without stirring. Give them a quick stir, and add the leeks and onion to the pan. Season the veggies with salt and black pepper, and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the mushrooms are light golden brown and the leeks are tender. Stir in the sage and tarragon.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, chicken stock, and ½ cup of cheese. Add the pieces of toasted croissant and mushroom mixture, stirring well to combine. Stir well and set aside at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. Transfer into a buttered dish. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese and bake for 40 minutes, until the top is browned and the custard is set.
Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Serve immediately. Enjoy!