Delicious Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a rich, flaky, and cheesy breakfast dish that’s both easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It combines buttery croissants, savory ham, gooey melted cheese, and a creamy egg custard to create a warm, satisfying dish that will impress everyone at the table.

This croissant breakfast bake is ideal for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or meal prepping for the week. It requires minimal effort yet delivers an elegant and flavorful dish that looks like it came straight from a bakery. Whether you’re hosting guests or just want to treat yourself to a decadent breakfast, this ham and cheese breakfast casserole is a must-try.

One of the best parts about this recipe is that it’s make-ahead friendly. You can prepare it the night before, let it soak in the fridge overnight, and simply bake it in the morning for a stress-free meal. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can swap ingredients, add veggies, or experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons why this easy breakfast croissant casserole is a must-try:

• Simple and Quick to Prepare: Made with basic ingredients, it takes only a few minutes to put together.
• Perfect for Feeding a Crowd: Whether for family gatherings, brunch parties, or holiday breakfasts, this dish is always a hit.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it the night before for a hassle-free morning.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of flaky croissants, salty ham, and melty cheese makes every bite irresistible.
• Customizable: Swap ham for turkey, add veggies, or try different cheeses for a new twist.

If you love savory breakfast casseroles, this one will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients for the Best Croissant Breakfast Casserole

To make this ham and cheese croissant casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 4 large croissants, torn into chunks
• 1 ½ cups diced ham (or turkey as an alternative)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup diced bell peppers for extra color and flavor
• ½ cup sautéed mushrooms for a rich, earthy taste
• 1 cup baby spinach, chopped, for a fresh twist

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start, gather these kitchen tools:

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk for beating the eggs
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula for mixing
• Aluminum foil for covering during baking

How to Make Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Croissants

Tear the croissants into bite-sized chunks and spread them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. The flaky layers will absorb the custard mixture beautifully, creating a soft yet crispy texture.

Step 2: Add the Ham and Cheese

Sprinkle the diced ham evenly over the croissants, ensuring every bite has a bit of protein. Then, generously add the shredded cheddar and Swiss cheese on top.

Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard. This mixture creates a creamy, flavorful custard that soaks into the croissants.

Step 4: Pour and Soak

Slowly pour the egg mixture over the croissant, ham, and cheese layers. Use a spatula to press the croissants down slightly, ensuring they absorb the custard.

Step 5: Chill or Bake

For the best flavor and texture, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight. If baking immediately, let it sit for about 10 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

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Tips for a Perfect Breakfast Casserole

• Use day-old croissants for the best texture—they absorb the custard mixture better without becoming too soggy.
• Let it soak overnight if you want an extra creamy, flavorful casserole.
• Don’t overbake! Keep an eye on the oven to prevent the casserole from drying out.
• Use a mix of cheeses to enhance the depth of flavor—Swiss, Gruyère, or mozzarella work well.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, feta, or even blue cheese for a unique taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not soaking the croissants long enough can result in dry spots—ensure they are fully coated in the custard mixture.
• Using too much liquid can make the casserole overly soggy. Stick to the recommended measurements.
• Skipping the resting time after baking makes it harder to cut neat slices—let it sit for a few minutes.

How to Serve and Presentation Ideas

For a beautiful presentation, serve this ham and cheese croissant breakfast bake with fresh fruit on the side. A drizzle of honey or a spoonful of cranberry sauce can add a hint of sweetness that balances the savory flavors. You can also sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top before serving for a gooey finish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This croissant breakfast casserole stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover it with foil and reheat in the oven at 325°F for about 15 minutes. If microwaving, heat individual portions for 30-45 seconds.

To freeze, wrap the entire casserole (or individual portions) in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve with Croissant Breakfast Casserole

• Fresh Fruit Salad: Adds a light and refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt Parfaits: Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries complement the dish.
• Roasted Potatoes: A hearty side for a complete breakfast spread.

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FAQs About Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Can I make this the night before?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight for a hassle-free morning.

Can I use store-bought croissants?
Absolutely! Fresh or day-old croissants work well.

What’s the best cheese for this casserole?
Cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère are excellent choices, but feel free to experiment.

Conclusion

This Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is the perfect balance of flaky, creamy, and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a regular morning, it’s an easy dish that delivers incredible flavor. Try this recipe today and share it with family and friends!

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