This Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake is a warm and cozy dish that makes breakfast feel special! It’s filled with tasty ham and gooey cheese, all baked inside flaky croissants.
Perfect for brunch with friends, this bake is super easy to throw together. I love how everyone always goes back for seconds—who can resist that cheesy goodness? 🥐❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: The base of this dish is croissants. Use plain ones for a classic flavor. If you’re short on croissants, you can substitute with puff pastry or even day-old bread for a different texture.
Ham: Chopped cooked ham brings great flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, diced turkey or even sautéed mushrooms could work well, especially for a vegetarian twist!
Cheese: I recommend Swiss or gruyère for that classic taste, but cheddar is also a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to mix different cheeses, or use dairy-free options to accommodate dietary needs.
Eggs: You can use large eggs as directed. If you’re vegan, try using a mixture of silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast as a substitute for the eggs.
How Do You Get the Right Texture When Soaking the Croissants?
Soaking the croissants properly is key to achieving that custardy bottom. After you combine the egg mixture, take your time pressing down on the croissant pieces to ensure they absorb the liquid.
- Make sure to let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes after pouring in the egg mixture. This helps the croissants soak it up well.
- If you’re looking for a crispy top, consider broiling it for a minute or two at the end, but watch it closely to avoid burning.
How to Make Ham And Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 6 large croissants, torn into pieces
- 1 cup cooked ham, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheese (e.g., Swiss, cheddar, or gruyère)
For the Egg Mixture:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious brunch bake takes about 15 minutes to prep. Once it’s in the oven, you’ll need to wait about 35-40 minutes for it to bake, for a total of approximately 50-55 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy. Perfect for a leisurely morning with friends or family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven is warming up, take a baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Getting this step done early saves hassle later!
2. Arranging the Croissants:
Next, tear the croissants into medium-sized pieces. Spread these pieces evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This forms the delightful base of your dish!
3. Adding the Ham:
Now, scatter the chopped ham evenly over the croissant pieces. This adds savory flavor and protein to make your brunch more filling.
4. Sprinkling the Cheese:
Time for some cheesy goodness! Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the ham and croissants. Next, it’s impossible to go wrong with cheese, so feel free to use a mix of your favorites!
5. Mixing the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or half-and-half), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. This will be your custard that binds everything together.
6. Pouring the Mixture:
Carefully pour this delicious egg mixture evenly over the croissant, ham, and cheese layers in the baking dish. Press down gently on the croissants so they soak up the custard. This helps ensure a flavorful result!
7. Letting It Sit:
Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes. This is important as it allows the croissants to absorb the liquid, creating that soft and creamy texture.
8. Baking It Up:
Once it’s sat, place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top is golden brown and the egg custard is fully set.
9. Finishing Touches:
When it’s done baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps it set and makes for easier serving.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your lovely bake with some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness with your friends or family!
This bake is a rich, flaky, and savory treat that’s perfect for brunch gatherings. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While croissants are the star of this dish, you can substitute them with puff pastry, brioche, or even day-old bread like French or sourdough. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will slightly change!
Can I Prepare This Dish the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Assemble everything in the baking dish but wait to pour the egg mixture on until you’re ready to bake. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply pour the egg mixture over, let it sit for a few minutes, then bake as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! Omit the ham and consider adding some sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor. You can also add extra cheese for a hearty vegetarian version!