Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a decadent and satisfying dish that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious breakfast or brunch. Buttery croissants, savory ham, gooey cheese, and a creamy egg custard bake together to create a crowd-pleasing casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Indulgent: Flaky croissants and melted cheese make it irresistibly comforting.
• Perfect for Gatherings: A great dish for brunch parties, holidays, or family breakfasts.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
• Easy to Customize: Swap in your favorite meats, cheeses, or veggies.
• Kid-Friendly: Simple flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Croissants (day-old or fresh, torn into large pieces)
• Ham (diced or thinly sliced)
• Cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère cheese (shredded)
• Eggs
• Milk
• Heavy cream
• Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper
• Butter (for greasing the dish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Layer the Croissants and Ham: Spread the torn croissant pieces evenly in the dish. Sprinkle diced ham and shredded cheese over the top.
3. Make the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant and ham layers. Press down gently to ensure the croissants soak up the custard.
5. Refrigerate Overnight (Optional): Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus optional overnight refrigeration)
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.
• Cheese Options: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or a combination of cheeses for a new flavor profile.
• Add Herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives for added freshness.
• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the custard mixture.
• Sweet and Savory: Drizzle with a touch of honey or serve with a side of fruit preserves.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover leftovers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use pre-sliced croissants?

Yes, pre-sliced croissants work perfectly and make assembly even easier.

Can I substitute the ham with another protein?

Absolutely! Bacon, cooked sausage, or turkey work well as substitutes.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Make sure the croissants are well-soaked in the custard and avoid overbaking.

Do I have to refrigerate it overnight?

No, but letting it sit allows the croissants to absorb the custard, creating a richer texture.

Can I use plant-based milk?

Yes, almond, oat, or soy milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative in the custard.

What’s the best way to tell if the casserole is done?

The top should be golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach make excellent additions.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Use gluten-free croissants or bread to make the recipe gluten-free.

Can I serve this for dinner?

Definitely! Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I halve the recipe?

Yes, use a smaller baking dish and halve the ingredients for fewer servings.

Conclusion

The Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a rich and comforting dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family breakfast, this recipe combines the flaky goodness of croissants with the savory flavors of ham and cheese. With its make-ahead convenience and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

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