Imagine waking up to the heavenly aroma of baked Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole wafting through your home, teasing your senses with promises of buttery croissants, melted cheese, and savory ham. Each bite is a delightful combination of flaky textures and rich flavors that can turn any ordinary morning into a culinary celebration. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or an exciting holiday breakfast, this dish is sure to make everyone swoon with joy. For more inspiration, check out this appetizer ideas recipe.
Picture this: you gather your friends and family around the table, laughter filling the air as you dive into this decadent creation. As you serve up generous portions, the excited chatter fades into satisfied murmurs. This recipe is not just food; it’s an experience that brings people together, creating delicious memories one croissant at a time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole offers a quick, easy preparation that makes mornings stress-free
- The flavor profile combines savory ham and creamy cheese for a comforting dish
- Its visually appealing layers are sure to impress anyone at your table
- Versatile enough for breakfast or brunch, it can also be enjoyed as a comforting dinner option
One memorable time I made this casserole for my family, my kids declared it the best breakfast ever, which made me feel like a superstar chef in my own kitchen.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Croissants: Use day-old croissants for the best texture; they soak up the custard without getting too soggy.
Ham: Choose diced ham or thinly sliced deli ham for convenience; both add a savory punch.
Cheese: A mix of Swiss and cheddar creates that gooey goodness; feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Eggs: Large eggs are key here; they act as the binding agent that holds everything together perfectly.
Milk: Whole milk provides creaminess; skim can work but might lack that rich flavor.
Mustard Powder: Just a pinch adds depth and enhances the flavors; don’t skip it!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all those wonderful flavors in the casserole.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your baking dish. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Assemble Ingredients: Chop your croissants into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Toss in diced ham and shredded cheese until well mixed.
Create the Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard powder, salt, and pepper until fully combined. This flavorful mix will coat all those delightful ingredients.
Combine Everything Gently: Pour the egg mixture over the croissant mixture and gently fold everything together until each piece is coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes for maximum absorption.
Bake to Perfection: Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top and set in the middle.
Cool Before Serving: Once baked, let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into squares. This will help everything hold together nicely when serving!
There you have it: an easy-to-follow guide through making Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole! Grab that fork (or spoon) and dig in! Enjoy every delicious bite—it’s breakfast perfection!
You Must Know
- Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is a delightful combination of buttery croissants and savory filling
- The crispy, golden crust gives way to a creamy interior, making each bite a heavenly experience
- Perfect for brunch or any gathering, it’s sure to impress!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange croissants in a baking dish, whisk eggs and milk together, then pour over croissants. Bake until golden brown for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
For a twist, consider adding spinach and tomatoes for a veggie boost or swap out the ham for turkey or bacon. Different cheeses like Swiss or cheddar can also elevate this dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring it stays crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality ham and cheese
- Letting the casserole sit before baking allows flavors to meld beautifully
- Consider using day-old croissants for added texture and taste
Sharing this recipe with friends made my last brunch unforgettable; they devoured every bite and begged for more!
FAQ
Can I use frozen croissants for this casserole?
Yes, but thaw them first to ensure even cooking.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Swiss cheese is classic, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
Look for a golden top and set center; it should not jiggle when shaken.
Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Wake up to the irresistible aroma of Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole! This easy-to-make dish combines buttery croissants, savory ham, and gooey cheese, creating a comforting breakfast that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy Sunday brunch or a festive holiday morning, this casserole is sure to bring smiles to your table, making every bite a celebration of flavor.
Ingredients
- 6 day-old croissants, chopped
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped croissants, diced ham, and shredded cheese.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Pour the egg mixture over the croissant mixture and gently fold until coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
- Transfer everything into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top and set in the middle.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approx. 150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: - For added nutrition, consider mixing in fresh spinach or tomatoes. - Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for unique flavors. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results.
