Craving a savory, satisfying brunch dish that’s both easy to prepare and sure to impress? This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole combines buttery croissants, savory ham, and melted cheese in a rich custard, creating a delectable dish perfect for any occasion.
🧀 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Leftovers: Utilize day-old croissants and leftover ham to reduce waste and enhance flavor.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the casserole the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for brunch gatherings, holiday breakfasts, or family weekends.
- Customizable: Swap out cheeses or add veggies to suit your taste.
📝 Ingredients
- 6–8 medium-sized croissants (preferably day-old)
- 8 oz deli-sliced ham
- 6 oz shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
- 1½ tbsp Dijon mustard
- Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prepare Croissants: Slice croissants in half horizontally.
- Assemble Layers: In a greased baking dish, layer the bottom halves of the croissants. Top with ham slices and shredded cheese, then place the top halves of the croissants over the cheese.
- Mix Custard: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled croissants, pressing down gently to ensure the croissants absorb the custard.
- Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped chives or thyme if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh green salad or fruit salad for a balanced meal.
- Beverages: Complement with freshly squeezed orange juice, coffee, or a mimosa for a festive touch.
- Presentation: Serve directly from the baking dish or transfer to a serving platter for a more elegant presentation.
🔄 Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Cheese Alternatives: Try cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the custard mixture for a kick.
🕒 Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Cover leftovers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
📌 Final Thoughts
This Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that’s sure to become a staple in your brunch repertoire. Its make-ahead convenience and rich flavors make it perfect for entertaining or a cozy family meal.
