Description
This Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a deliciously savory morning dish perfect for brunch or a family breakfast. Featuring flaky croissants soaked in a rich egg mixture with savory ham and melted cheddar cheese, this baked casserole is easy to prepare and guarantees a satisfying, hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Croissant Base
- 6 large croissants (stale are best, but fresh will work)
Meat
- 8 ounces sliced ham (or cubed ham)
Egg Mixture
- 8 eggs
- 1/2 cup half and half
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Cheese & Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350˚F (175˚C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking your casserole.
- Prepare croissants and ham: Cut the croissants into small bite-sized pieces. Tear or cube the ham into similar bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
- Make egg mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the 8 eggs, 1/2 cup half and half, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper until fully combined and slightly frothy.
- Assemble the casserole: Grease a medium-sized casserole dish. Layer half of the croissant pieces evenly on the bottom, then add half of the ham and half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat with the remaining croissants and ham, tuck the ham pieces between croissants, and finish with the remaining cheese. Pour the whisked egg mixture evenly over the assembled layers.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden. The casserole should be puffed and cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for an added fresh flavor and a nice presentation.
Notes
- Using stale croissants is ideal as they absorb the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before; assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with Swiss or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
- For a lower-fat version, use low-fat milk instead of half and half and reduce the cheese quantity.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: ham and cheese casserole, breakfast casserole, croissant casserole, brunch recipe, savory breakfast bake
