Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole: The Ultimate Breakfast Recipe

Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole: Prepare to be amazed! Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of buttery croissants, savory ham, and melted cheese, all baked together in a comforting, golden-brown casserole. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s a weekend brunch masterpiece that’s surprisingly easy to create.

While the exact origins of the Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole are a bit hazy, it’s a delightful evolution of classic breakfast staples. Think of it as a sophisticated twist on the humble ham and cheese sandwich, elevated to casserole status. It embodies the spirit of resourceful cooking, transforming day-old croissants into something truly spectacular.

What makes this dish so universally loved? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The flaky, buttery croissants provide a delightful base, while the savory ham and creamy cheese create a symphony of deliciousness. It’s also incredibly convenient. You can assemble it the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning, making it ideal for busy families or effortless entertaining. Plus, who can resist the allure of warm, cheesy comfort food? This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

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 baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until lightly toasted. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming soggy. Let the toasted bread cool slightly.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the diced ham and shredded Swiss cheese. Gently toss them together to distribute the ingredients evenly.
3. Layer the Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Arrange half of the toasted bread cubes in the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle half of the ham and cheese mixture over the bread. Repeat with the remaining bread cubes and ham and cheese.

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. Make sure there are no streaks of egg yolk remaining. The Dijon mustard adds a nice tang that complements the ham and cheese.
2. Pour over the Bread: Slowly and evenly pour the egg mixture over the bread, ham, and cheese in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread cubes with a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure they are all submerged in the custard. This step is crucial for a moist and delicious casserole.
3. Let it Soak: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, 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, an hour 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 Topping: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. The Parmesan cheese will create a golden-brown and crispy crust.
3. Bake: 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 is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the casserole with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
4. Cool Slightly: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the custard to set further and makes it easier to slice.

Serving and Optional Additions:

1. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
2. Serve: Slice the casserole into squares and serve warm. This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
3. Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. You can add other vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers, to the ham and cheese mixture. You can also use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, cheddar, or provolone. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.
4. Make Ahead: This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold from the refrigerator.
5. Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t skip the toasting step! Toasting the bread cubes is essential for preventing a soggy casserole.
• Use good quality ingredients. The better the ingredients, the better the flavor of the casserole.
• Don’t overbake the casserole. Overbaking can result in a dry and rubbery casserole.
• Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This allows the custard to set and makes it easier to slice.
• Experiment with different flavors. This recipe is a great base for experimentation. Feel free to add your favorite ingredients and flavors.

Enjoy your delicious Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole!

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 savory custard, layered with salty ham and gooey cheese, create a symphony of flavors and textures that’s simply irresistible. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal for busy mornings, holiday brunches, or even a comforting weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While the classic ham and cheese combination is a winner, feel free to get creative and experiment with different variations. For a vegetarian option, try substituting the ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and roasted red peppers. You could also add a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor and texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a touch of Dijon mustard to the custard for a subtle tang, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.

Serving suggestions are endless too! This casserole is delicious on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with a side of fresh fruit, a crisp green salad, or even a simple bowl of yogurt. For a more substantial meal, you could serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or a hearty soup. And don’t forget the drinks! A glass of orange juice, a cup of coffee, or even a mimosa would be the perfect accompaniment to this delightful dish.

I truly believe this Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves delicious, easy-to-make food. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover croissants, minimizing food waste and maximizing flavor.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible casserole. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And now, for the most important part: I want to hear from you! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please let me know what you think. Did you make any variations? What were your favorite serving suggestions? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I’m always eager to learn from your experiences and see how you’ve made this recipe your own. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love.

Don’t be shy – let’s start a conversation about this amazing Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole! I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary adventures. Happy cooking!