Heavenly Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Mornings sparkle with this dreamy ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole that promises pure comfort.

Layers of buttery, flaky croissants nestled between savory ham and melted cheese.

Weekend brunch suddenly feels like a gourmet adventure waiting to unfold.

Rich ingredients meld together, creating a dish that whispers indulgence from first bite.

Crispy edges and soft, custardy center make this casserole irresistible to anyone seeking a hearty morning meal.

Each forkful delivers a perfect balance of salty ham, creamy cheese, and golden croissant pieces.

Hunger calls, and this recipe answers with a delicious morning symphony.

Gather your ingredients and let’s turn an ordinary breakfast into an extraordinary experience.

Why Ham And Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Is A Brunch Favorite

• Effortless Brunch Champion: Perfect make-ahead breakfast casserole that simplifies morning meal preparation with minimal hands-on cooking time.
• Luxurious Texture Delight: Combines soft, buttery croissant pieces with creamy custard and melted cheese, creating a rich and indulgent breakfast experience that feels like a gourmet restaurant treat.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Fusion: Delivers a harmonious blend of savory ham, tangy Swiss cheese, and delicate egg custard that appeals to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family gatherings or weekend brunches.
• Versatile Meal Wonder: Easily adaptable recipe that can be prepared the night before, requiring just a simple bake in the morning, perfect for busy households or hosting guests without stress.

What You’ll Need For Ham And Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

• Croissants: Soft, buttery base that absorbs the custard and adds rich flavor.

• Ham, Swiss Cheese: Savory proteins that provide depth and saltiness to the breakfast casserole.

• Eggs, Milk, Cream: Creamy mixture that binds the casserole and creates a smooth, rich texture.
• Salt, Pepper, Ground Mustard, Garlic Powder: Seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Parsley: Fresh herb that adds a pop of color and light, herbal note to the finished dish.

• Croissants: Choose day-old or slightly stale croissants for better custard absorption.
• Ham: Deli-style or leftover ham works well; select a variety with good flavor.
• Swiss Cheese: Opt for freshly shredded for better melting and texture.
• Eggs: Use large, fresh eggs for best results.
• Milk and Cream: Whole milk and heavy cream provide richness; can substitute with half-and-half.

How To Make Ham And Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Simple

Step 1: Prep the Baking Vessel

• Diced ham
• Shredded Swiss cheese

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Custard

• Whole milk
• Heavy cream
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Ground mustard
• Garlic powder

Whisk until everything is smooth and well-combined, creating a dreamy liquid base.

Step 3: Layer and Soak

Pour the silky custard mixture all over the croissant, ham, and cheese foundation. Use your hands or a spatula to gently press down, ensuring every croissant morsel gets a good bath in the egg mixture. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour – overnight works magic for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat the oven to a toasty 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Pull the casserole from the fridge and let it hang out at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Slide the uncovered dish into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for a set custard and a beautifully bronzed top that’ll make your mouth water.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let the casserole take a quick breather for 5 minutes. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Slice, serve, and watch everyone dive in with excitement!

Smart Tips For Ham And Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Success

• Soak Croissants Thoroughly: Press down gently when adding custard to ensure croissants absorb the egg mixture completely, creating a rich and moist texture throughout the casserole.
• Maximize Flavor Depth: Add a pinch of fresh thyme or green onions to the egg custard for an extra layer of aromatic complexity that complements the ham and cheese.
• Prep Ahead for Convenience: Assemble the casserole the night before to allow flavors to meld and save precious morning preparation time.
• Customize Cheese Options: Swap Swiss cheese with gruyère, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses to suit your taste preferences or use up leftover cheese in the refrigerator.
• Dietary Modification: Use gluten-free croissants and lactose-free milk for a diet-friendly version that accommodates different nutritional needs without compromising on taste.

How To Store And Reheat Ham And Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Right

• Refrigerate: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping it fresh and delicious.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months to enjoy later.
• Reheat Oven Method: Warm at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
• Microwave Option: Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes on medium power, checking halfway to ensure even warming without overcooking.

Great Matches For Ham And Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

• Brew the Perfect Morning Companion: Pair this hearty casserole with a rich, medium-roast Colombian coffee that cuts through the creamy dish's richness and provides a smooth, balanced flavor profile.
• Complement with Fresh Citrus: Serve alongside a bright, tangy orange juice or grapefruit juice to balance the casserole's savory and rich elements, creating a refreshing morning contrast.
• Elevate with Crisp Side Salad: Add a light mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette dressing to introduce a fresh, acidic element that helps cleanse the palate between bites of the decadent breakfast casserole.
• Match with Sparkling Beverage: Enhance the meal with a chilled sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber, offering a light, effervescent touch that refreshes and complements the dish's creamy texture.

Tasty Variations Of Ham And Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

• Veggie Lover's Ham Swap: Replace ham with sautéed bell peppers, spinach, and zucchini for a vegetable-packed breakfast casserole that's packed with nutrients and color.
• Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced jalapeños, swap Swiss cheese for pepper jack, and sprinkle chili powder into the custard for a zesty morning meal with southwestern flair.
• Mediterranean Morning Remix: Use feta cheese instead of Swiss, incorporate diced sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, creating a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast experience with bright, tangy flavors.
• Smoked Salmon Sunrise: Substitute ham with flaked smoked salmon, use dill instead of parsley, and add cream cheese to the custard for an elegant, luxurious breakfast casserole that feels gourmet.

Answers To Ham And Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Questions

• What makes this breakfast casserole unique?

This recipe transforms classic ham and cheese croissants into a delicious morning bake that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. The combination of buttery croissants, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese creates a rich and satisfying breakfast dish.

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole is designed for make-ahead convenience. You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate overnight, which actually helps the croissants absorb more of the delicious egg custard, intensifying the flavors.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! This casserole reheats beautifully and can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it an excellent option for busy mornings or preparing breakfast for the week. Simply cover and warm in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

• Can I customize the ingredients?

Definitely! While the recipe works best with Swiss cheese and ham, you can easily swap in different cheeses like cheddar or add other breakfast meats like bacon or sausage to make it your own special breakfast creation.

Ham And Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Delightful ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole brings weekend brunch magic to your morning table. Layers of flaky croissants, savory ham, and melted cheese create a comforting dish you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 6 large croissants, torn into bite-sized pieces
• 8 ounces (225 grams) cooked ham, diced or sliced
• 2 cups (200 grams) shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese
• 8 large eggs

Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:

• 2 cups (480 milliliters) whole milk
• ½ cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
• ½ cup (50 grams) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Seasonings and Optional Ingredients:

• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare your baking vessel by generously coating the interior with a non-stick cooking spray or butter, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
2. Delicately tear croissants into rustic, bite-sized fragments, creating an uneven landscape across the bottom of the prepared dish.
3. Distribute diced ham evenly over the croissant pieces, followed by a generous layer of shredded Swiss cheese, creating a delectable foundation for the morning feast.
4. In a spacious mixing bowl, vigorously whisk eggs until they transform into a smooth, uniform mixture, incorporating milk, cream, and a medley of seasonings including salt, pepper, ground mustard, and garlic powder.
5. Gently cascade the egg custard over the layered croissants, ham, and cheese, using gentle pressure to help the bread absorb the luxurious liquid.
6. Seal the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, allowing the ingredients to meld and intensify their flavors by resting in the refrigerator for a minimum of one hour, or ideally overnight.
7. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C), removing the casserole from the refrigerator to warm slightly at room temperature for approximately 15 minutes.
8. Place the uncovered casserole in the heated oven, baking until the custard sets completely and the surface achieves a golden, crispy perfection, typically 30-35 minutes.
9. After removing from the oven, allow the casserole to rest and settle for a brief 5-minute interval.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, adding a vibrant touch of color and herbaceous flavor before serving to eager breakfast companions.

Notes

• Customize the croissants by using different types like chocolate or almond, adding unique flavor variations to the breakfast casserole.
• Swap traditional ham with turkey bacon, prosciutto, or vegetarian bacon alternatives for dietary preferences or to experiment with different protein options.
• Enhance the cheese selection by mixing Swiss with cheddar, gruyère, or pepper jack to create a more complex and exciting flavor profile.
• Prep ahead by assembling the casserole the night before, allowing the croissants to fully absorb the creamy custard and develop deeper, richer flavors overnight.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 471
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 826 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 186 mg