It’s a lazy Sunday morning. The smell of freshly baked croissants wafts through the kitchen, mingling with the rich aroma of melted cheese and savory ham. Can you smell it? That perfect combination gives your taste buds an irresistible wake-up call, coaxing you out of bed and into the kitchen for an indulgent breakfast or brunch treat. loaded potato bites Creamy potato side dish This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a hug in food form. For more inspiration, check out this Swiss Chicken Bake recipe.
Picture this: you gather your friends and family around the table, excitement buzzing in the air. Each bite delivers layers of flaky croissant goodness, melted gooey cheese, and hearty ham that will make you wonder why you didn’t create this masterpiece sooner. Perfect for holidays or casual gatherings, this dish promises to impress while keeping your kitchen adventures fun and stress-free!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is embarrassingly easy to throw together, making breakfast feel gourmet without breaking a sweat
- The rich flavors blend beautifully, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting
- Its golden, bubbly appearance is sure to delight everyone at the table
- Versatile enough for brunch or a cozy dinner, it adapts to any occasion effortlessly
I still remember the first time I made this casserole; my friends were convinced I had hidden culinary talents I never knew existed!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Croissants: Freshly baked croissants work best; they add a light, flaky texture that elevates every bite.
- Ham: Use good-quality deli ham for a savory punch; thick slices keep it hearty.
- Cheese: A mix of Gruyère and cheddar creates a delightful melty experience that’s hard to resist.
- Eggs: These bind everything together; use large eggs for optimal flavor and texture.
- Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; feel free to substitute with half-and-half for extra richness.
- Mustard: A touch of Dijon mustard enhances the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper are essential; sprinkle some herbs de Provence for an aromatic touch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Creating your Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is as simple as following these steps. French toast casserole recipe Ready? Let’s cook!
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows even cooking of our delicious casserole.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grease a medium baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This prevents sticking while adding flavor.
Layer Those Croissants: Tear the croissants into bite-sized pieces and place them evenly in the prepared baking dish. Aim for a fluffy layer.
Add Ham and Cheese Delightfully: Scatter diced ham over the croissant pieces, followed by generous amounts of shredded cheese on top. It’s like a cheesy blanket!
Create Your Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard, salt, pepper, and herbs de Provence until well combined. The scent will be heavenly!
Pour Over Croissant Layers: Carefully pour your egg mixture over the layered croissants and ham. Give it a gentle press down to ensure everything soaks up that liquid gold.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through. Keep an eye out for that bubbly goodness!
Let it cool slightly before serving – patience is key! You’ll want to savor each moment as you enjoy this scrumptious Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole with loved ones around your table.
Now that you’ve got this mouthwatering recipe in hand, it’s time to bring joy to your kitchen! Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish that’s bound to become a favorite at any gathering! Cranberry chicken salad.
You Must Know
- This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is a breakfast game changer
- It’s easy to prepare and always impresses guests with its flaky croissant layers
- The delightful aroma fills your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist when it comes out of the oven
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Assemble the casserole while letting the croissants soak in egg mixture for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ham for turkey or add some sautéed veggies for extra crunch and nutrients.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect texture, use day-old croissants; they absorb the egg mixture better
- Don’t rush the soaking process; let croissants soak for at least 20 minutes
- For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some cheese on top before baking
Sharing this recipe reminds me of hosting my first brunch. Friends devoured every bite, asking for seconds, and I felt like a culinary superstar!
FAQ
Can I use regular bread instead of croissants?
Yes, but croissants provide a unique flaky texture that enhances this casserole.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the ham and add your favorite vegetables or mushrooms for added flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning for convenience.
Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish that combines flaky croissants, savory ham, and gooey melted cheese. This easy-to-make casserole brings comfort to your table and is perfect for gatherings or family meals. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s both satisfying and visually appealing. Let the rich aromas of this casserole fill your kitchen and impress your guests with minimal effort!
Ingredients
- 6 large croissants, torn into pieces
- 1 cup diced ham (preferably thick slices)
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half)
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp herbs de Provence
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a medium baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Layer the croissant pieces evenly in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the diced ham over the croissants, followed by the shredded cheeses.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard, salt, pepper, and herbs de Provence until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered croissants and gently press down to soak them.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
