Name: Buttery Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake – The Ultimate Comfort
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: french-American
Ingredients: 6 croissants, halved or torn into large pieces; 1 1/2 cups diced ham; 2 cups shredded cheese (Gruyère, Cheddar, or Swiss); 6 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 2 tbsp butter, melted; Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love indulgent, cheesy, and buttery breakfasts, this Buttery Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake will become a staple in your kitchen. It combines flaky croissants, savory ham, and rich cheese in a luscious custard that bakes into a golden, creamy dish. Perfect for a special brunch, holiday breakfast, or even a weeknight dinner, this bake is easy to assemble and incredibly satisfying.

This dish is also a fantastic way to use up leftover ham, making it both practical and delicious. Plus, its make-ahead capabilities allow for stress-free mornings when entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Croissants
Ham
Cheese (such as Gruyère, Cheddar, or Swiss)
Eggs
Whole milk
Heavy cream
Dijon mustard
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Butter
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Prepare the croissants by slicing them in half or tearing them into large pieces. Arrange them evenly in the baking dish.
Layer the ham and cheese over the croissants, ensuring an even distribution for a balanced bite in every serving.
Make the custard by whisking together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large bowl until smooth.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants, ham, and cheese, pressing the bread down slightly to help it soak up the liquid.
Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the croissants to absorb the custard.
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, then garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Variations

Meat Alternatives: Swap the ham for cooked bacon, turkey, or even smoked salmon for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a meat-free option.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a little heat.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rest Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Freezing: Wrap the baked casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this bake ahead of time?

Assemble the dish the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Can I use store-bought croissants?

Yes! Fresh or day-old store-bought croissants work perfectly in this dish.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Gruyère, Swiss, and cheddar are great choices because they melt beautifully and complement the ham.

Can I make this dish without dairy?

You can use dairy-free milk and cream alternatives, but the texture may be slightly different.

Do I have to use Dijon mustard?

No, but it enhances the flavor. You can substitute it with whole-grain mustard or leave it out if preferred.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The top should be golden brown, and the custard should be set with no liquid pooling when you cut into it.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.

Can I make this in a muffin tin?

Yes! Divide the ingredients into greased muffin cups and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids love the cheesy, buttery flavors. You can adjust seasonings to their preference.

What should I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a fresh fruit salad, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

This Buttery Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake is the ultimate comfort dish that blends rich, savory flavors with a crispy, golden topping. Whether served for brunch, a holiday gathering, or as a cozy family breakfast, it is sure to impress. With easy customization options and make-ahead convenience, this dish is a must-try. Give it a bake and savor every buttery, cheesy bite!

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