Name: Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large croissants, cut into bite-size pieces; 1½ cups cooked ham, diced; 6 large eggs; 1 cup milk; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional); 1½ cups shredded Swiss cheese; ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon butter or cooking spray (for greasing the dish)

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There is nothing quite like the warm, flaky, and irresistibly cheesy goodness of a Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe to elevate your brunch or breakfast. This dish combines buttery croissants, savory ham, fluffy eggs, and melted Swiss and cheddar cheese into a comforting casserole that feels both indulgent and effortless. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this bake fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma and impresses every time you serve it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A rectangular clear glass dish filled with several layers: at the bottom, shredded white cheese is spread across, topped with golden brown croissants sprinkled with white sesame seeds and black pepper, some croissants showing a creamy inside with mushrooms; thin slices of pink cured meat are placed between and over the croissants, adding contrast. The dish is held by two woman's hands, one gripping each side of the dish, all set on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe, each playing an important role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the dish truly special. From the buttery croissants to the sharpness of the cheese, every component adds its own magic.

4 large croissants, cut into bite-size pieces: Use fresh or day-old croissants for the perfect flaky base that absorbs the egg mixture wonderfully.
1½ cups cooked ham, diced: Savory and meaty, ham brings a satisfying richness that pairs beautifully with cheese.
6 large eggs: These bind everything together with a fluffy, creamy texture.
1 cup milk: Adds moisture and lightness for a luscious custard consistency.
1½ cups shredded Swiss cheese: Offers nutty, slightly sweet notes and melts into a silky layer of flavor.
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and vibrant color to the cheese blend.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the richness.
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional): Provides a subtle tang that deepens the savory profile.
1 tablespoon butter or cooking spray (for greasing the dish): Prevents sticking and contributes a hint of buttery flavor to the edges.

How to Make Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), then grease an 8×8-inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will have those deliciously crisp edges we all love.

Step 2: Layer the Croissants

Evenly spread the bite-sized croissant pieces across the bottom of the prepared dish. These flaky pieces will soak up the egg custard and become irresistibly tender as they bake.

Step 3: Add the Ham

Scatter the diced cooked ham over the croissant layer. Distributing it evenly means every bite will have a perfect balance of meaty goodness.

Step 4: Sprinkle the Cheese

Top the ham and croissants with the shredded Swiss and cheddar cheeses. This dual-cheese combo melts beautifully, creating a rich and gooey blanket of flavor.

Step 5: Mix the Egg Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and optional Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined. This mixture will soak into the croissants and set around the fillings during baking.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in your baking dish. Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top turns a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let your Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe rest for about 5 minutes. This helps everything settle, making it easier to slice and ensuring each serving holds its shape.

How to Serve Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe

Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the rich bake perfectly. For an extra touch, a light drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream can also be delightful.

Side Dishes

This bake shines alongside simple, crisp side salads like a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette or fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal. Roasted vegetables or sautéed greens also provide a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the bake in small ramekins for individual portions that look charming on any breakfast table. Layering in additional ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions can elevate the dish further, turning your Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe into a personalized culinary masterpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen, making it just as delicious the next day and perfect for busy mornings.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of the bake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep that fresh-baked taste intact.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving works too for convenience but can affect the texture slightly, so a quick oven refresh is preferred when time allows.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in the Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe?

Absolutely! Gruyère is a popular substitution for Swiss that adds a nutty flavor, and mozzarella can bring a milder, stretchier melt. Feel free to experiment with your favorites to suit your taste.

Is it necessary to use croissants or can I substitute with bread?

While croissants provide a buttery flakiness unique to this bake, you can use cubed brioche or even thick-cut sandwich bread if needed. The texture will be different but still delicious.

Can I prepare the dish the night before?

Yes! Assembling the Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe the night before not only saves time but also allows the croissants to soak up the custard deeply, resulting in an even more flavorful bake.

What can I add if I want to make it more vegetable-packed?

Adding sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms will complement the ham and cheese beautifully. Just make sure to cook any vegetables first to avoid excess moisture in your casserole.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Definitely! The familiar flavors of ham and cheese combined with flaky croissants generally appeal to kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic family-friendly option.

Final Thoughts

This Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that always feels like a special occasion, while being easy enough for everyday breakfasts or brunches. Its simple ingredients come together to create something truly memorable, and I can’t recommend giving it a try enough. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this rich, flaky, cheesy bake whenever you want a warm hug in food form.