Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole: The Ultimate Breakfast Recipe

Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole: Just imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of buttery croissants, savory ham, and melted cheese wafting through your kitchen. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary morning feast. I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, a dish that’s become a beloved tradition in my own home, perfect for weekend brunches or holiday gatherings.

While the exact origins of the Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole are a bit hazy, its essence lies in the timeless appeal of classic comfort food. Think of it as a delightful evolution of the traditional ham and cheese sandwich, elevated to casserole status. Casseroles, in general, have a long history as a practical and satisfying way to feed families, especially during busy times. This particular version takes that concept and infuses it with the flaky, buttery goodness of croissants, creating a truly decadent and memorable dish.

What makes this casserole so universally loved? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The soft, yielding croissants soak up a rich custard, while the salty ham and gooey cheese provide a savory counterpoint. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy mornings or when you need to feed a crowd. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable – feel free to add your favorite vegetables or cheeses to create your own signature version. Get ready to experience a breakfast that’s both comforting and impressive!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 1 large loaf of French bread or Italian bread (about 1 pound), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 8 ounces cooked ham, diced
• 8 ounces Swiss cheese, shredded
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Casserole:

1. Prepare the Bread: First, we need to get our bread ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is lightly toasted and dried out. This step is crucial because it prevents the casserole from becoming soggy. Let the toasted bread cool slightly.
2. Combine Ham and Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the diced ham and shredded Swiss cheese. Make sure they are evenly distributed. This mixture will be layered with the bread to create that delicious ham and cheese flavor throughout the casserole.
3. Layer the Bread, Ham, and Cheese: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Place half of the toasted bread cubes in the prepared baking dish, spreading them evenly across the bottom. Next, sprinkle half of the ham and cheese mixture over the bread. Repeat with the remaining bread cubes and ham and cheese mixture, creating a second layer.

Making the Custard:

1. Whisk the Eggs: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that complements the ham and cheese perfectly. Make sure everything is thoroughly mixed to ensure a smooth and creamy custard.
2. Pour the Custard: Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ham, and cheese layers in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread with a spatula or your hands to ensure that the bread absorbs the custard. This step is important for creating a cohesive and flavorful casserole.
3. Let it Soak: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a richer and more flavorful casserole. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes will do, but overnight is best!

Baking the Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish.
2. Add Parmesan and Butter: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. The Parmesan and butter will create a golden-brown and crispy crust.
3. Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the casserole with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
4. Let it Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set further and makes it easier to slice.

Serving and Variations:

1. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serving Suggestions: Serve warm as a brunch dish, breakfast casserole, or a comforting dinner. It pairs well with a side salad or fresh fruit.
3. Variations:
   • Meat Variations: You can substitute the ham with other meats such as cooked sausage, bacon, or turkey.
   • Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack.
   • Vegetable Additions: Add some chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the ham and cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrients. Sauté the vegetables before adding them to the casserole.
   • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the custard mixture for a little heat.
   • Bread Choice: While French or Italian bread works best, you can also use croissants for an extra buttery and flaky casserole. If using croissants, you may need to reduce the amount of butter added to the top.
   • Make it Vegetarian: Omit the ham and add more vegetables, such as spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichoke hearts.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t skip the toasting step! Toasting the bread is essential for preventing a soggy casserole.
• Soaking time is key. The longer the bread soaks in the custard, the better the flavor and texture will be.
• Adjust baking time as needed. Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the casserole and adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Use good quality ingredients. The better the ingredients, the better the casserole will taste.
• Make it ahead of time. This casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. Assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerating: Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
• Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze the casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing.

Conclusion:

This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole isn’t just another breakfast dish; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone begging for seconds. The flaky, buttery croissants soaked in a creamy, savory custard, layered with salty ham and gooey cheese, create a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why I’m so enthusiastic! It’s the perfect make-ahead breakfast or brunch option for holidays, potlucks, or even just a special weekend treat. The ease of preparation combined with the incredible taste makes it a must-try recipe for any home cook.

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyere, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar would all be fantastic additions. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. For a spicier kick, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the egg mixture. And if you want to make it a vegetarian option, simply omit the ham and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein alternative.

Serving suggestions are endless! This casserole is delicious on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with a side of fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or even some crispy bacon or sausage. For a truly decadent brunch, serve it alongside mimosas or bloody marys. Leftovers (if there are any!) can be easily reheated in the microwave or oven, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays. You can even cut the casserole into individual squares and freeze them for a quick and easy breakfast on the go.

I truly believe this Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole will become a staple in your recipe collection. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory and rich flavors is simply divine, and the ease of preparation makes it a winner in my book.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible casserole. I’m confident that you and your loved ones will absolutely adore it.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve had a chance to make it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear about any variations you tried, what your family thought, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! Don’t forget to rate the recipe!