This ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole is like a warm hug in a dish! It’s packed with fluffy croissants, tasty ham, and melted cheese all baked together until golden.
I mean, who wouldn’t want to wake up to this? Just mix everything up, pop it in the oven, and you’re ready to impress your sleepyheads at breakfast time! 😊
This casserole is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy brunch. I love that it’s easy to prepare the night before—just bake and enjoy the smiles when everyone sees it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Fresh croissants are best, but you can also use day-old ones. If you’re looking for a healthier option or gluten-free, consider substituting with gluten-free bread or sliced bagels.
Ham: I love using diced cooked ham, but turkey ham or leftover holiday ham works great too! For a vegetarian version, try using sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Cheese: Swiss or cheddar cheese gives a wonderful flavor. If you want a little kick, pepper jack is a great substitute. For dairy-free options, look for vegan cheeses that melt well.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream adds richness, you can swap it with half-and-half or even plain yogurt for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that yogurt may slightly change the texture.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a lovely tanginess. If you don’t have it, you can use yellow mustard or skip it entirely for a milder flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Casserole Stays Moist?
To keep your casserole moist and flavorful, make sure all croissant pieces are well-soaked in the egg mixture. This step is crucial since it helps the croissants absorb the liquid beautifully. Here’s how to do it:
- Whisk the eggs, milk, and cream together thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the croissants and ham.
- Gently press the croissant halves down with a spatula to help them soak up the mixture. The more they soak, the creamier your casserole will be!
Also monitor your baking time closely—if overcooked, you might end up with a dry casserole. Keep an eye out for that golden color on top and a slight jiggle in the center!
Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 6 large croissants, cut into halves
- 8 oz cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (such as Swiss or cheddar)
For The Egg Mixture:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 30-35 minutes to bake. After baking, it’s best to let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Overall, you’ll be enjoying this delicious breakfast in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your casserole won’t stick.
2. Arrange the Croissants and Ham:
Once the oven is ready, arrange the croissant halves in the baking dish with the cut side facing up. Next, sprinkle the diced ham evenly over the croissant halves, making sure it’s distributed well.
3. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk and heavy cream. Then, sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard (if you’re using it). Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and frothy—this will create a tasty custard for the casserole.
4. Pour and Soak:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the ham and croissants in the baking dish. Make sure all the pieces are soaked well; you can press down lightly with a spatula to help if needed.
5. Add the Cheese:
Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delightful cheesy crust as it bakes!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is set in the center and the top looks golden and bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, feel free to garnish with fresh parsley for a nice touch.
Enjoy your delicious ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole! It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you want a warm, comforting dish.
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can use cooked turkey, sausage, or even a mix of meats instead of ham. Just ensure they’re fully cooked and diced into small pieces before adding them to the casserole.
What Can I Substitute for Croissants?
If you don’t have croissants, you can use any type of bread such as brioche, challah, or even standard white or whole grain bread. Just cut it into cubes to create a similar texture. The final dish will have its own unique flavor, so feel free to get creative!
How Should I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheating option!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before! Just follow the steps up to pouring the egg mixture. Cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if needed. Enjoy!
