This ham and cheese croissant casserole is a tasty dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch! Imagine fluffy croissants loaded with savory ham and melted cheese in every bite.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just layer the ingredients, pour over some egg mixture, and let it bake until golden. It’s a cozy treat that everyone at the table will enjoy, trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: These are the star of the dish! Fresh croissants give the best texture, but if you don’t have them, puff pastry can be a good alternative. Just remember to layer it well!
Diced Cooked Ham: You can use leftover holiday ham or even deli ham. If you’re short on ham or wish to go vegetarian, feel free to swap it out for sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar and Swiss are classics here, but mozzarella or gouda can bring a great twist! Mix and match based on what you have. Cheese is super forgiving!
Eggs & Milk: Whole milk gives a rich flavor, but you can replace it with buttermilk for added tang or use almond milk for a lighter version. Just keep the ratio similar for best results.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Perfectly Set?
A common worry when making casseroles is ensuring they’re cooked through without being dry. Here’s how to achieve that perfect bake:
- Make sure to soak the croissants adequately in the egg mixture, allowing around 10-15 minutes before baking.
- Keep an eye on the casserole in the last 10 minutes of baking; if it’s browning quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning.
- The casserole is done when the center is set and no longer jiggly, and the top is golden! A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.
Ham And Cheese Croissant Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 5 large croissants, cut into large chunks
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss work well)
Egg Mixture:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- Butter or nonstick spray, for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then another 40-45 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be ready to enjoy a fabulous dish in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Dish:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13 inch casserole dish and grease it with butter or nonstick spray to keep everything from sticking.
2. Layering the Ingredients:
Start by placing the croissant chunks evenly in the casserole dish. Then, sprinkle the diced cooked ham over those fluffy croissants, distributing it evenly. Top it all off with a good sprinkle of shredded cheese – this will melt beautifully as it bakes!
3. Mixing the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack in the eggs and add the milk. If you’re using it, stir in the Dijon mustard for an extra kick! Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined.
4. Pouring the Mixture:
Now it’s time to pour that tasty egg mixture over the croissants, ham, and cheese in the casserole dish. Make sure to cover all the pieces, so they soak up all that goodness!
5. Letting It Soak:
Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 to 15 minutes. This gives the croissants a chance to absorb the egg mixture. It’s an important step for a creamy texture!
6. Baking the Casserole:
Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the center to be set. If it seems to be browning too fast, feel free to cover it loosely with foil.
7. Final Touches:
Once it’s done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for just a few minutes. Then sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh, flavorful garnish.
8. Serving:
Slice it up, serve warm, and enjoy your scrumptious Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner with family!
Can I Use Stale Croissants for This Recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, stale croissants can absorb the egg mixture even better. Just make sure to let them sit in the mixture a bit longer so they soak up all the flavors!
Can I Substitute Other Meats?
Yes, you can definitely use other meats! Cooked bacon or turkey can work great instead of ham. Just remember to chop them into small pieces for even distribution!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
