This tasty Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is comfort food at its best! Flaky croissants, hearty ham, and melty cheese come together for a warm, satisfying dish.
It’s super easy to make and perfect for brunch or lunch. I love sneaking in a few extra pieces of ham—who can resist? 🥪
Just layer your ingredients, pour on some eggs, and bake! You’ll have a crowd-pleaser in no time, ready to share with friends or enjoy all by yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Day-old croissants work best because they are a bit drier, allowing them to soak up the egg mixture nicely without getting too soggy. If you’re in a pinch, you can use store-bought puff pastry or biscuits, but croissants add that unique buttery flavor!
Ham: Diced cooked ham is a key ingredient for this casserole. If you’re looking for alternatives, try diced turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian twist.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice for this recipe. I love mixing in mozzarella for extra stretchiness! If you want to switch it up, feel free to use Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even Gruyère for a richer flavor.
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamier texture, but you can use 2% or even almond milk if you’re lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option. Just choose an unsweetened variety to keep the balance right.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture in the Casserole?
The secret to achieving that fluffy, custardy texture lies in letting the croissants soak in the egg mixture. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to press the croissant pieces gently after pouring the egg mixture to help them absorb that delicious liquid.
- Letting it sit for about 10 minutes before baking allows the croissants to fully soak in the flavors.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different. Once it’s puffy and golden, it’s ready to come out!
These steps will help ensure your casserole is both airy and flavorful. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Ham And Cheese Croissant Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large croissants, preferably day-old
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Butter or non-stick spray for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 35-45 minutes to bake. With a total time of just under an hour, you’ll be enjoying this comforting dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Grease:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray so your casserole won’t stick.
2. Prepare the Croissants:
Tear the croissants into large chunks and spread them evenly in the prepared baking dish. Don’t worry about making it perfect; just make sure they’re mostly covered!
3. Add Ham and Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the diced cooked ham and shredded cheese all over the croissant pieces. Make it generous! You want that cheesy goodness in every bite.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder until everything is well combined. This will be the liquid gold that brings it all together!
5. Combine Everything:
Pour that delicious egg mixture evenly over the croissants, ham, and cheese in the baking dish. Gently press the croissants down to help them soak up the egg and make sure the ham and cheese are well distributed.
6. Let It Soak:
Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes so the croissants can soak up that egg goodness. This step is key for a perfect texture!
7. Bake:
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is puffed and golden brown on top, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This waiting game makes it easier to slice. Then, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole as a fantastic breakfast, brunch, or cozy dinner treat. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light green salad. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Stale Croissants for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Day-old or stale croissants are perfect for this casserole because they absorb the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy. If you don’t have stale croissants, slightly toasting fresh ones can also work.
What Can I Substitute for Ham?
If you prefer a different protein, you can easily substitute diced turkey, cooked bacon, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a meatless version.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You might want to cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
