This Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake is a tasty and easy dish that brings together buttery croissants with savory ham and gooey cheese. Perfect for breakfast or brunch!
It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! I usually make it on weekends when I want a little treat without the fuss. You just mix, bake, and serve—a delightful way to start the day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Freshly baked croissants are best as they provide a flaky texture. If they’re not available, use day-old croissants or even a buttery bread like brioche or challah for a different twist.
Ham: Cooked ham adds flavor and protein. If you need a lighter option, substitute with turkey or a plant-based ham-style product for a vegetarian style.
Cheese: I love a mix of Swiss and Gruyère for great melt and flavor, but cheddar works too! For a dairy-free option, try a vegan cheese blend made for melting.
Milk & Cream: Whole milk makes it rich, but you can use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. If you prefer a lighter option, stick to 1% milk or just use more milk instead of the cream.
Dijon Mustard: This is optional but adds a nice tang. You can swap it with yellow mustard or even omit it altogether if you’re not a mustard fan.
How Do I Ensure the Eggs Set Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Getting the eggs to set beautifully can be tricky. Here are some tips:
- Whisk the eggs and milk thoroughly to avoid clumps, which ensures a smooth custard.
- Be patient when letting the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes. This helps the croissants soak up the egg mixture fully.
- Keep an eye on your bake towards the end. When the top is golden and the center doesn’t jiggle too much, it’s usually done!
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before cutting to help it hold its shape better.
How to Make Ham And Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 6 large croissants, roughly chopped
- 8 oz (225g) cooked ham, chopped or sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (such as Swiss, cheddar, or Gruyère)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to bake. Overall, you can expect about an hour of total time to have a warm, delicious brunch ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important to ensure that your bake cooks evenly. While the oven heats up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with butter or non-stick spray so that nothing sticks!
2. Prepare the Croissants:
Take your large croissants and roughly chop them into big pieces. Then, spread them evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish for a nice flaky base.
3. Add the Ham:
Next, take your chopped or sliced ham and layer it evenly over the croissant pieces. This will add a yummy savory flavor!
4. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Now it’s time to get cheesy! Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the ham and croissants, making sure to cover everything well.
5. Mix the Egg Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), garlic powder, onion powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until it’s all well combined and looks creamy!
6. Pour the Mixture:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, ham, and cheese. Make sure every piece gets a good soak in that creamy goodness!
7. Let It Soak:
Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes. This resting time helps the croissants absorb the egg custard, making the bake extra delicious.
8. Bake:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want the top to be nice and golden brown, and the eggs should be fully set—no jiggles!
9. Cool and Garnish:
When done, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for just a few minutes. Then, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top to make it look pretty and tasty!
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the brunch bake warm, perhaps with a side of fresh juice or a light salad for a refreshing meal. Enjoy this delightful combination of flaky croissants, savory ham, gooey cheese, and creamy baked eggs!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While croissants bring a unique flakiness, you can substitute with other breads like brioche or challah for a wonderful flavor and texture. Just ensure they’re somewhat stale to absorb the egg mixture well.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish the Night Before?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish the night before! Just follow the instructions but cover it with foil and refrigerate after pouring the egg mixture. In the morning, bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half and half or full-fat coconut milk for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the richness of the dish!
