This Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake is a warm and cheesy delight! Picture buttery croissants, hearty ham, and gooey cheese all baked together for the perfect morning treat.
Honestly, it makes breakfast feel like a special occasion. I love to serve it with a side of fresh fruit for a colorful plate. Who wouldn’t want brunch like this every weekend? 🥐✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Freshly baked croissants are best for this recipe, but day-old ones work too. You can also use buttered rolls or puff pastry if you’re in a pinch or prefer a different texture.
Ham: Any type of deli meat will work well. You can use turkey, chicken, or even cooked bacon for a twist. For a vegetarian option, consider using spinach and mushrooms or a meat substitute.
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for its rich flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a mix of Gruyère and mozzarella or even pepper jack for a little heat! Just make sure it melts well.
Eggs: Large eggs are standard, but if you have medium eggs, they’ll do fine too. You can swap out eggs for a plant-based alternative, like silken tofu, for a dairy-free version.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient adds a nice tang. If you’re not a fan of mustard, you can omit it or substitute with a little hot sauce for a different kick.
How Do I Make the Perfect Egg Mixture?
The egg mixture is crucial for achieving a creamy texture. Here’s my foolproof method:
- Start with a large bowl, and crack all the eggs into it. Whisk them thoroughly until they’re well combined.
- Slowly add the milk and heavy cream while whisking to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Include the Dijon mustard, garlic, and onion powders, along with salt and pepper, to enhance the flavor.
- Mix until everything is combined. Don’t rush; well-mixed ingredients prevent clumps in your bake!
Pour this mixture evenly over your croissants and be sure to give them a moment to soak up the liquid for a deliciously moist bake.
How to Make Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 6 large croissants, sliced in half horizontally
- 8 oz (225 g) sliced ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend like Swiss and cheddar)
For the Egg Mixture:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional for flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious brunch bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 35-40 minutes to bake. After that, let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. So, in total, you’re looking at about an hour for a warm, cheesy delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This step ensures your bake comes out without sticking!
2. Slice and Arrange Croissants:
Slice each croissant in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves in the baking dish in nice, neat rows. This will be the base for your delicious layers!
3. Layer with Ham and Cheese:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Layer slices of ham evenly over the croissant bottoms, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese on top of the ham. Feel free to use as much cheese as you like – we all love a cheesy dish!
4. Add Croissant Tops:
Take the croissant tops and place them over the ham and cheese layers. Gently press down to form stuffed croissant sandwiches. This will help everything hold together nicely during baking.
5. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, it’s time to whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is fully combined for a smooth mixture!
6. Pour and Soak:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant sandwiches in the baking dish. Allow the liquid to soak into the croissants for a few moments. This will make them soft and delicious once baked!
7. Top with More Cheese:
For an extra cheesy crust, sprinkle some additional shredded cheese over the top. Trust me; it’s worth it!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is fully set. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to set. This little bit of time makes a big difference!
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a splash of color. Serve it warm alongside coffee or your favorite brunch sides for a perfect meal!
This Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Bread?
Absolutely! If you don’t have croissants, you can substitute with other types of bread like sliced brioche, French bread, or even bagels. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to soak up the egg mixture without falling apart.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the bake the night before. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, remove it from the fridge while the oven preheats, then bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked casserole. Simply cover it tightly with foil after assembling. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. For baked leftovers, freeze them in portions wrapped individually for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen, adding more time as needed.
