This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is a warm and cheesy treat that’s super easy to whip up. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch, and it uses flaky croissants, ham, and gooey cheese.
You’ll love how this dish fills your kitchen with a yummy smell! I like to sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top for an even cheesier surprise. Who can resist that? 🥐🧀
Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Fresh croissants make this dish flaky and rich, but if you can’t find them, use day-old ones or even frozen croissants. Just thaw and use! Whole grain or gluten-free options could work for a healthier twist.
Ham: You can use leftover holiday ham or any deli ham. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, swap the ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a delicious twist.
Cheese: Swiss cheese is classic, but feel free to mix in cheddar or Gruyere for richer flavor. If dairy is an issue, vegan cheese can be a great alternative.
Milk: Whole milk provides creaminess, but you can use skim milk or a plant-based milk like almond or oat if you prefer.
Seasonings: Dijon mustard adds a nice kick. If you don’t have it, a pinch of mustard powder can do the trick. Adding herbs like thyme or oregano can enhance the flavor, too!
How Can I Make Sure the Casserole is Perfectly Set?
Getting the custard to set just right is key to this recipe. Here’s how:
- Press the croissant pieces down gently to soak up the egg mixture, ensuring they’re all coated.
- Allow the mixture to rest for 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps the croissants absorb more of the liquid.
- Keep an eye on the casserole towards the end of baking. The top should be golden and a knife inserted should come out clean.
Letting it cool slightly before serving allows it to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve!
Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 large croissants, torn into pieces
- 8 oz ham, diced or sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or Gruyere)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
For Flavoring:
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Butter or nonstick spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 35-45 minutes to bake. Plus, it benefits from resting for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. All in all, you’ll be enjoying this tasty dish in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare for Baking:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with butter or nonstick spray to keep your casserole from sticking.
2. Assemble the Croissants:
Tear the croissants into large bite-sized pieces and evenly spread them in your greased baking dish, forming a lovely base for your casserole.
3. Add the Ham:
Next, scatter the diced or sliced ham evenly over the croissant pieces. This layer adds a savory touch that contrasts beautifully with the buttery croissants.
4. Sprinkle on the Cheese:
Now it’s cheese time! Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the ham and croissant layers. Feel free to mix different kinds of cheese for extra flavor.
5. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or half-and-half), Dijon mustard (if you choose to use it), salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure everything is well combined for a smooth custard.
6. Combine All Layers:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant, ham, and cheese layers, ensuring every piece gets a good soaking. Use a spatula to gently press down on the croissants to help them absorb the mixture.
7. Let it Rest:
Let the casserole sit for about 10-15 minutes. This step is important as it allows the croissants to soak up more of that delicious custard.
8. Bake Until Golden:
Place the baking dish uncovered in your preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and the custard is set (a knife inserted in the center should come out clean).
9. Finishing Touches:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite of your ham and cheese croissant casserole!
Can I Use Day-Old Croissants for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Day-old croissants are perfect for this casserole as they’ll soak up the egg mixture better than fresh ones. If you have frozen croissants, thaw them before using for the best texture.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ham and consider adding extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also include a meat substitute if desired!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge before baking. Just allow an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time if it’s going in cold from the fridge.
