This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is a warm and tasty dish that’s super easy to make. Flaky croissants, creamy cheese, and savory ham come together in perfect harmony!
It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! I love making this for breakfast or brunch, and my family always digs in happily. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover croissants!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Using slightly stale croissants helps them hold up better in the casserole. If you’re short on croissants, you could use any bread, like brioche or French bread. Just slice it into thick pieces.
Ham: I love using cooked ham for its flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey ham or even chopped leftovers from a roast. Vegetarian? Use sautéed mushrooms or spinach!
Cheese: Swiss cheese is fantastic because it melts beautifully. Gruyère is another great choice. For a milder taste, go for mozzarella or cheddar. If you want to mix things up, add a bit of pepper jack for some spice!
Eggs & Milk: Whole milk is creamy, but you can swap it for half-and-half for extra richness. For a lighter version, use almond milk or oat milk, just ensure they’re unsweetened.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole is Creamy and Not Dry?
The key to a creamy casserole is letting the croissants soak in the egg mixture. Here are some tips:
- After pouring the egg mixture, press the croissants down gently so they absorb all the liquid.
- Refrigerating the casserole for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) allows the croissants to soak up the flavors.
- Check if the center is set before taking it out of the oven; a slight jiggle is okay, but it shouldn’t be liquidy.
Ham And Cheese Croissant Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large croissants (day-old or slightly stale works best)
- 8 oz cooked ham, thinly sliced or chopped
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole will take about 15 minutes for preparation time, plus 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. After that, it takes around 30-35 minutes to bake in the oven. In total, expect to spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Croissants:
Slice the croissants into halves or quarters, depending on their size. Arrange them evenly in the prepared baking dish, making sure they fit snugly together.
3. Layer Your Ingredients:
Now it’s time to layer! Sprinkle the chopped ham over the croissants evenly, followed by a generous amount of shredded Swiss cheese. Make sure to distribute them well, pressing down gently to secure them in place.
4. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This mixture will help to bind all your delicious ingredients!
5. Combine Everything Together:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, ham, and cheese. Gently press down on the croissants to help them soak up that tasty egg mixture.
6. Chill the Casserole:
Cover the casserole dish with foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the croissants to soak up the custard, making the casserole extra delicious. If you’d like, you can prepare it the night before and let it sit in the fridge until morning!
7. Bake it Up:
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You want it to look deliciously golden and ready to eat!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. If you want to add a pop of color and freshness, garnish with chopped chives or parsley.
9. Dig In:
Serve this warm, cheesy, ham-filled croissant bake at your next brunch or breakfast gathering, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with Gruyère, cheddar, or even mozzarella for a milder flavor. Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Simply assemble the casserole and leave it covered in the refrigerator overnight. Just be sure to bake it the next day without the foil after chilling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm it back in the oven until heated through.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
If you’d like to add more flavor, consider including sautéed onions or bell peppers with the ham. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can also elevate the taste of your casserole!