Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake
Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake is a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. It’s made with flaky croissants, savory ham, and melty cheese all mixed together in…
Tip: save now, cook later.Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake is a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. It’s made with flaky croissants, savory ham, and melty cheese all mixed together in a creamy egg custard. When baked, it turns into a golden, bubbly casserole that’s warm and satisfying with every bite.
I love making this on weekends when I have a little extra time to spare. It’s one of those recipes where you can use up leftover croissants and ham, so nothing goes to waste. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare ahead—just assemble it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning. I always look forward to the smell of it baking because it fills the entire house with comfort.
My favorite way to serve the croissant bake is with a simple green salad or fresh fruit on the side. It feels like such a treat but is actually super simple to pull off. It’s great for sharing with family or friends, and I’ve noticed it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time I bring it to a brunch or potluck.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Day-old croissants work best since they soak up the custard without becoming mushy. If you don’t have croissants, try brioche or challah bread for a similar texture.
Ham: Use any cooked ham you like, diced into small pieces. For a lighter option, turkey or chicken breast works well too.
Cheese: A mix of Swiss and cheddar adds great flavor and meltiness. You can swap for Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella if that’s what you have on hand.
Milk or Half-and-Half: Whole milk gives a creamy custard, but feel free to use half-and-half or even a dairy-free milk if preferred.
Eggs: They bind the bake and create a custard texture. Make sure to whisk them well with the milk and seasonings.
How Do You Get the Best Texture for a Croissant Bake?
The secret to a perfect croissant bake lies in how you prepare the croissants and custard to balance softness and structure.
- Cut croissants into large chunks — not too small or they may become soggy.
- Press the croissants gently into the custard mixture so they soak up just enough without falling apart.
- Letting the bake rest for 5–10 minutes after baking helps it firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Baking uncovered helps the top get golden and slightly crispy while the inside stays soft and creamy.
Taking these steps ensures your croissant bake is rich and tender but with a nice contrast of textures!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – just the right size for holding the croissants and custard evenly.
- Mixing bowl – great for whisking together the eggs, milk, and seasonings smoothly.
- Whisk – helps you blend the custard without lumps for that silky texture.
- Knife – for slicing croissants and dicing ham into bite-sized pieces.
- Measuring cups and spoons – so you get the ratios just right every time.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ham for cooked bacon or sausage for a different meaty taste that’s still hearty.
- Use Gruyère or mozzarella instead of Swiss and cheddar for a milder or stretchier cheese pull.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to sneak in some veggies and a touch of earthiness.
- Sprinkle some fresh herbs like thyme or chives on top for a bright, fresh flavor boost.
How to Make Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 large croissants, preferably day-old or slightly stale
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of Swiss and cheddar works well)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Butter or non-stick spray, for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 35 to 45 minutes to bake. After baking, allow an additional 5 to 10 minutes to cool and set before serving. Overall, plan for about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish and Croissants:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Slice each croissant in half horizontally, then cut each half into large chunks. Arrange the croissant pieces evenly in the baking dish.
2. Add Ham and Cheese:
Scatter the diced ham and shredded cheese evenly over and between the croissant pieces. Make sure the ham and cheese are well distributed for every bite.
3. Mix the Custard and Pour:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or half-and-half, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and fully combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the croissant, ham, and cheese, letting it soak into the bread. Press down gently on the croissants to help them absorb the custard.
4. Bake and Cool:
Place the bake uncovered in the oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes to help it set.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for color and a fresh flavor. Serve warm with your favorite breakfast sides like fresh fruit or a green salad, and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Croissants for This Bake?
Yes, you can use frozen croissants, but be sure to thaw them completely before assembling the bake. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature to ensure they absorb the custard evenly.
Can I Make This Croissant Bake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply bake it for the same amount of time until golden and set.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through for the best texture.
Can I Add Vegetables or Other Ingredients?
Of course! Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure any added veggies are cooked and drained well to avoid sogginess.