This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is a warm and cozy dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Soft croissants soaked in a creamy egg mix make every bite rich and tasty!
The melted cheese and savory ham really steal the spotlight. I love making this when I have friends over—it’s always a hit and super easy to whip up. Just mix, bake, and enjoy!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Use large, flaky croissants for the best texture. If you’re in a pinch, any bread works, like brioche or even day-old baguette. They might not be as soft, but they’ll still taste great!
Ham: I like using leftover cooked ham, as it adds flavor without needing more cooking. If you’re vegetarian, try using sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but I love a mix of Swiss and Gruyère for a fancier touch. If you’re avoiding dairy, use a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter version. Just keep in mind the texture might be a little different.
Mustard: Dijon adds a nice kick, but if it’s not your thing, you can skip it or substitute with a little hot sauce for some heat!
How Do I Ensure My Croissants Soak Up the Custard?
Letting the croissants absorb the egg mixture is key for a creamy and delicious casserole. After pouring the custard over, gently press down on the croissants to help them soak up the liquid.
- Cover the dish with foil and let it sit for at least 20 minutes, or even up to overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld.
- When baking, starting covered helps everything cook evenly. Uncover it towards the end to get that nice golden crust!
Ham And Cheese Croissant Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 large croissants, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or a mix)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 50 minutes to bake. It’s a total of about 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish. Plus, if you let it sit for a bit before serving, it’ll be even more delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Assemble the Croissants:
Take your torn croissant pieces and spread half of them evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish. This will be the base of your casserole.
3. Add Ham and Cheese:
Now, sprinkle half of the chopped ham and half of the shredded cheese over the croissants. It’s like building layers of yumminess!
4. Repeat the Layers:
Next, add the rest of the croissant pieces on top, followed by the remaining ham and cheese. This creates a hearty casserole that everyone will love.
5. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, the whole milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth.
6. Pour the Mixture:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant, ham, and cheese layers. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure that all the croissants get soaked in this delicious custard.
7. Let it Soak:
Cover the dish with foil and let it sit for at least 20 minutes. This soaking time is crucial for helping those croissants absorb all the egg goodness!
8. Bake the Casserole:
Place the covered dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. This will help it set up a bit more. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your comforting, savory Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole! Perfect for gathering around the table!
Can I Use Day-Old Croissants for This Casserole?
Absolutely! Day-old croissants work wonderfully since they’re a bit drier and will soak up the egg mixture even better. Just tear them into pieces as you would fresh croissants.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can assemble everything the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking the next morning, as this helps it cook evenly.
What Other Fillings Can I Use?
Get creative! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms, or even switch the ham for cooked bacon or sausage. Just adjust the ingredients based on your preferences!
