Ham And Cheddar Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe

This croissant breakfast casserole is my absolute favorite because it’s like having a gourmet breakfast sandwich all baked into one delicious dish—perfect for brunch with friends. Plus, the combo of flaky croissants, savory ham, and gooey cheddar just hits differently, making mornings feel extra special.

I adore beginning my day with a delightful Ham and Cheddar Croissant Breakfast Bake. I suppose if I were going to pick a comforting breakfast to have in my queue, it would be this.

I love the way the flaky croissants combine with the eggs, which have more than enough protein to get me through the morning. And the cheese.

Sharp, slightly funky, and oh-so-delicious cheddar. Then there’s the flavor lineup.

Dijon mustard, garlic powder, fresh green onions—it’s a perfect breakfast situation.

Ingredients

Croissants:
Rich flavor and carbohydrates come from the buttery layers.

Eggs:
They are full of protein and provide not only structure but also creaminess.

Heavy Cream:
Provides smooth texture and lavish richness.

Dijon Mustard:
Imparts sharp growth and mild warmth.

Ham:
For protein and flavor contrast, take bites that are savory and salty.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese:
Excellent melting quality and flavor that is rich and sharp.

Green Onions:
A new burst of color and flavor.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 large croissants
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing

Instructions

1. Your oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C). A 9×13-inch baking dish should be prepared with butter.

2. Cut the croissants in half, and place them in the prepared baking dish.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients and whisk them together until fully blended:

– eggs
– milk
– heavy cream
– Dijon mustard
– salt
– black pepper
– garlic powder

4. Scatter the ham that has been diced over the halves of croissant in the baking dish.

5. Ensure that the egg mixture is poured evenly over the layered croissants and ham, doing so in a manner that guarantees the liquid seeps into the croissants.

6. Evenly add the shredded cheddar cheese to the top.

7. Distribute the diced green onions evenly over the cheese layer.

8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and let it sit for 15 minutes so the croissants can soak the liquid up.

9. Put the covered dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes.

10. Continue to bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes longer, or until the top is golden and the center of the casserole is set. Cool slightly before serving.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. 9×13-inch baking dish
3. Butter knife (for greasing the dish)
4. Cutting board
5. Knife (for cutting croissants and dicing ham)
6. Large mixing bowl
7. Whisk
8. Measuring cups and spoons
9. Aluminum foil

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of cheese?Indeed, you may replace sharp cheddar with a comparable cheese such as Swiss or Gruyère for a different taste.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?Certainly! You can prepare the casserole the night before, keep it in the fridge, and then just pop it in the oven in the morning.
• What can I substitute for heavy cream?Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half or additional milk for a lighter option.
• How can I store leftovers?Leftovers can be kept for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, stored in an airtight container. For optimal results, reheat them in the oven.
• Can I add vegetables to this bake?
  Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Sauté them first for better texture.
• Is it possible to make this bake without ham?Certainly, you can leave out the ham or substitute it with cooked bacon or sausage for a different protein source.
• Can I use a different type of mustard?Certainly! Whole-grain mustard or yellow mustard can be used, but they may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Substitutions and Variations

If you do not have any croissants, you can use:

4 large slices of brioche or challah bread.
1 cup milk: substitute with 1 cup almond milk or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
1 cup cooked ham, diced: swap out for 1 cup cooked turkey or chicken, diced, for a new taste.
1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: substitute with 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese or Monterey Jack cheese for a milder option.

Chop 2 tablespoons of green onions: You can substitute with 2 tablespoons of chives or diced red onion for a similar taste.

Pro Tips

1. Croissant Preparation For extra flavor, lightly toast the croissants in the oven or on a skillet before placing them in the baking dish. This can add a subtle crunch and prevent them from becoming too soggy.

2. Flavor Infusion Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for an extra depth of flavor and a bit of warmth.

3. Cheese Variety Experiment with different cheeses for added complexity. A combination of Gruyère and sharp cheddar can provide both creaminess and boldness.

4. Ahead of Time Prepare the casserole the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the croissants more time to soak up the flavors, resulting in a richer taste.

5. Herb Garnish Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness.