Name: Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 6-8 croissants, day-old or slightly dried (see tip); 4 large eggs; 1 cup milk (whole milk or half-and-half for a richer flavor); 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; Pinch of salt; 8 ounces deli ham, diced or sliced; 6 ounces shredded cheese (Gruyere, Swiss, cheddar, or a combination); Powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)

Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake

Looking for a show-stopping brunch dish that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than this Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake! This recipe utilizes leftover croissants, transforming them into a decadent and flavorful casserole. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, and leftovers can be easily reheated for a quick and satisfying weekday breakfast.

This recipe is ideal for slightly dried-out croissants, which can be achieved by baking them at a low temperature. This prevents the croissants from becoming soggy in the egg mixture. However, feel free to use fresh croissants if that’s what you have on hand.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt create a rich custard base. Diced ham adds a savory element, while shredded Gruyere, Swiss, or cheddar cheese provides a creamy and satisfying finish.

For an extra flavor boost, consider incorporating chopped vegetables like spinach, onions, or peppers. For a touch of luxury, add a dollop of sour cream or crumbled goat cheese to the egg mixture. This casserole can also be prepared in advance and refrigerated overnight, making it a perfect option for busy mornings.

So ditch the boring breakfast routine and impress your guests with this Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Questions I often get asked about this recipe:

Can I use fresh croissants instead of day-old ones?
Absolutely! Fresh croissants will work just fine. You might want to skip the pre-baking step in that case. However, keep in mind that very fresh croissants might become a bit soggier in the final dish compared to slightly dried-out ones.

What kind of milk can I use?
Whole milk or half-and-half will create a richer and creamier bake. However, skim milk can also be used for a lighter option.

Do I have to use Dijon mustard?
No, you don’t. You can substitute it with a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a squeeze of yellow mustard. However, the Dijon mustard adds a bit of tanginess that complements the other flavors well.

How can I reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven. If using the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. In the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

What can I serve with this breakfast bake?
This casserole is quite filling on its own, but you can pair it with a side of fresh fruit salad, yogurt, or a simple green salad.

What you need to make Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake:

6-8 croissants, day-old or slightly dried (see tip)

4 large eggs1 cup milk (whole milk or half-and-half for a richer flavor)

1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Pinch of salt

8 ounces deli ham, diced or sliced

6 ounces shredded cheese (Gruyere, Swiss, cheddar, or a combination)

How to make it:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Tear or cut the croissants into bite-sized pieces and scatter them evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Add the diced or sliced ham on top of the croissants.

Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the ham and croissants.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, and salt. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole.

Optional: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This allows the croissants to absorb the egg mixture and results in a richer flavor.

Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

To dry out croissants slightly, preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Cut the croissants into cubes or tear them into pieces and spread them on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until lightly toasted.

Add chopped vegetables like spinach, onions, or peppers to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrients.

For a creamier bake, add 1/2 cup of sour cream or crumbled goat cheese to the egg mixture.

If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a squeeze of yellow mustard.

Latest Reviews:

This recipe was a lifesaver for my leftover croissants! The egg mixture was so flavorful, and the ham and cheese combo was delicious. Plus, it was easy to throw together and bake ahead of time. Perfect for a weekend brunch with friends. Sarah B.

I was skeptical about using leftover croissants, but this recipe is a game-changer! The croissants weren’t soggy at all, and the whole casserole was cheesy, savory, and so satisfying. My family devoured it in minutes. Will definitely be making this again! John M.

This bake was a delicious surprise! It’s fancy enough for a special occasion but simple enough for a busy weekday. I loved how easy it was to customize with different veggies and cheeses. Definitely recommend! Emily C.

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