This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Flaky croissants, savory ham, and melted cheese create an irresistible layered delight!
Make it on a lazy weekend and watch everyone enjoy it bite after bite. I love how easy it is to prepare; just toss everything together and let the oven do its magic. So cheesy and delicious! 🥐
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: The star of this casserole! Fresh croissants add a lovely buttery quality. If you can’t find fresh ones, use day-old croissants or even unfrozen store-bought versions. Puff pastry can be a good alternative too, though the texture will be different.
Ham: I usually go for deli-style ham, which is easy to chop up. You can use leftover holiday ham, turkey, or even a vegetarian alternative like roasted mushrooms or tempeh for a meatless twist.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese offers great meltability. If you prefer something sharper, try cheddar or pepper jack for a kick. For dairy-free options, there are wonderful vegan cheeses available that melt well.
Eggs: Fresh eggs hold everything together and provide protein. If you’re looking for an egg-free option, a silken tofu blend can work, but it will change the texture slightly.
How Do You Ensure a Perfectly Soaked Casserole?
Letting the croissant chunks soak is key to achieving a creamy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- After pouring the egg mixture, gently press down on the croissants with a spatula. This ensures they absorb the liquid well.
- Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before baking; this waiting time is crucial!
- If you’re really pressed for time, you can prep it the night before, cover, and let it sit in the fridge overnight for deeper flavors.
Overall, keep an eye on the oven—a golden top and a clean knife are reliable signs it’s ready! Enjoy your cozy casserole! 🍽️
Ham And Cheese Croissant Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 large croissants, cut into large chunks
- 8 oz cooked ham, sliced or diced
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (or your preferred cheese)
For the Egg Mixture:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for a slight tang)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
For Serving:
- Fresh chopped parsley or chives for garnish
- Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 35 to 40 minutes to bake. All in all, you’ll need about 1 hour to get it ready and on the table. It’s perfect for a special breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grab a 9×13-inch casserole dish and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This will prevent sticking and makes serving easier later!
2. Assemble the Base:
Now, chop the croissants into large chunks and spread them evenly across the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Try to make sure the pieces are somewhat spread out so they can soak up the egg mixture evenly.
3. Layer the Ham and Cheese:
Next, distribute the cooked ham pieces evenly over the croissant chunks. Then sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top of the ham and croissants. This layer will melt beautifully during baking!
4. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use a whisk to mix until everything is fully blended and smooth.
5. Pour and Press:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, ham, and cheese in the casserole dish. To ensure good soaking, press down lightly with a spatula, making sure those croissant pieces get nice and soaked!
6. Give It Time to Soak:
Let the casserole sit for about 10-15 minutes. This soak time allows the egg mixture to penetrate into the croissant chunks, making every bite creamy and delicious.
7. Bake Until Golden:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is puffed and golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean—no gooey egg mixture!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps everything set just a little more. Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
And there you have it! Enjoy your warm, cheesy Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch! 🥐✨
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Casserole?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is a classic choice for its meltiness, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a spicy twist. Just ensure the cheese is good for melting!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time! Assemble the casserole the night before and cover it with plastic wrap or foil. Just remember to remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to let it come to room temperature.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through—adding a splash of milk can help revive the creamy texture!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can omit the ham and substitute it with vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. You could even add some plant-based sausage or tofu for a protein boost.