This Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a dream come true for anyone who loves a savory breakfast with a hint of luxury. The buttery croissants soak up the creamy egg mixture and pair perfectly with the salty ham and gooey cheese. It’s like your favorite breakfast sandwich, but in a casserole form! The casserole is not only simple to make but also easily customizable. You can add in extra vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, or swap out the ham for sausage or bacon. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or preparing a family breakfast, this dish will surely impress. Its golden, bubbly cheese and tender croissant layers make for a picture-perfect morning bite!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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6 large croissants, cut into cubes
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1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup milk
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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4 large eggs
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
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In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Add the cubed croissants, diced ham, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the egg mixture. Stir until evenly combined.
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Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the eggs are set.
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Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole: The Ultimate Morning Comfort Dish
Background of the Dish
The Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a delightful combination of buttery, flaky croissants, savory ham, and melty cheese. This breakfast casserole has its roots in the classic croissant sandwich, but it takes the indulgence up a notch by transforming it into a hearty, oven-baked dish. Whether you are hosting a weekend brunch, planning a cozy family breakfast, or simply looking to enjoy a comfort-filled morning, this casserole is the perfect solution.
This dish’s popularity stems from its ability to be both versatile and comforting. The rich flavors of the ham and cheese pair perfectly with the soft, pillowy croissants. It’s a dish that appeals to both adults and kids, and it’s easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. If you’re a fan of croissants and enjoy a savory breakfast casserole, then this recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Why This Recipe is the Best
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Quick and Easy to Make
This Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is perfect for busy mornings or gatherings where you need to feed a crowd. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and just one baking dish. No complicated steps or ingredients are involved, making it a beginner-friendly recipe that anyone can master. Simply assemble, bake, and serve!
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Crowd-Pleaser
One of the best features of this casserole is that it can serve a crowd. The combination of croissants, ham, and cheese is loved by just about everyone, making it ideal for brunch parties, holiday gatherings, or any family get-together. You can easily double the recipe to accommodate more guests, and because it’s made in one baking dish, cleanup is a breeze.
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Satisfying and Filling
Croissants, eggs, cheese, and ham make a hearty breakfast that will leave everyone feeling full and satisfied. The croissants soak up the creamy egg mixture and become soft and tender as they bake, creating a comforting texture. The savory ham and cheese give each bite an irresistible flavor, and the eggs provide the perfect binding to hold everything together. It’s a filling meal that’s perfect for starting your day with plenty of energy.
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Customizable to Your Taste
Another fantastic benefit of this casserole is its versatility. While the recipe calls for ham, cheddar, and mozzarella, you can easily substitute ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Want to add some spinach for extra nutrients? Go for it! Prefer bacon over ham? No problem! You can even use a different type of cheese, such as Swiss, Gouda, or Gruyère, for a unique flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, and the recipe is fully adaptable to your tastes.
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Perfect for Leftovers
Not only is this casserole delicious the day it’s made, but it’s also a great option for leftovers. You can store any remaining casserole in the fridge and enjoy it the next day for breakfast or even lunch. Reheat it in the microwave or oven, and it will still taste amazing. This is the type of recipe that gets better over time!
Health Benefits of This Recipe
While the Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is undoubtedly indulgent, it also provides some essential nutrients that make it a satisfying and balanced meal. Here are a few health benefits of the key ingredients in the recipe:
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Eggs: Eggs are an excellent source of protein and contain essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, and choline. They’re a great way to start your day with a nutrient-dense breakfast.
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Ham: While ham is a processed meat, it’s still a good source of protein and contains essential minerals like iron and zinc. Opt for lean ham to keep the dish healthier.
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Cheese: Both cheddar and mozzarella provide calcium and protein, which are important for bone health. These cheeses also give the casserole its creamy texture and rich flavor.
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Croissants: Although croissants are high in fat and carbohydrates, they contribute to the dish’s satisfying and filling nature. You can opt for whole-wheat croissants for a slightly healthier version of the recipe.
How to Serve This Dish
The Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is the perfect addition to any breakfast or brunch spread. Serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal. For extra protein, you can add a side of crispy bacon or sausage. If you’re serving it for a special occasion like a holiday or birthday, garnish it with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for an elegant touch.
The casserole is also great when paired with a warm cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice. It’s an excellent meal to enjoy with family and friends, and the best part is that it’s easy to make in large batches, so no one has to miss out on a delicious bite.
Tips for Making the Perfect Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole
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Use Stale Croissants: While fresh croissants will work, stale croissants are ideal for casseroles. They absorb the egg mixture better and become soft and custardy once baked. If your croissants are fresh, you can leave them out for a few hours to dry out, or you can toast them lightly.
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Add Vegetables: For a more balanced casserole, consider adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or onions. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add some extra nutrients.
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Make Ahead: If you’re hosting brunch or need to prep in advance, this casserole can be assembled the night before. Simply refrigerate it overnight, and bake it in the morning when you’re ready. This is a great time-saver for busy mornings.
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Top with Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme add a burst of color and freshness to the casserole. You can sprinkle them on top just before serving for a touch of elegance.
Why It’s Perfect for Special Occasions
While the Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is ideal for everyday breakfast or brunch, it’s also an excellent choice for special occasions. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a family gathering, or preparing a Sunday brunch, this dish will make your spread feel extra special. The combination of flavors and textures feels indulgent and comforting, yet it’s simple enough to make in a short amount of time.
Not only is this casserole a treat for the taste buds, but it also makes a beautiful presentation when served at the table. The golden-brown cheese on top, paired with the layers of croissants and ham, makes for a dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Conclusion
The Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for any breakfast or brunch occasion. With its easy preparation, crowd-pleasing flavors, and satisfying texture, it’s the kind of dish that will become a family favorite in no time. Plus, the ability to customize it to your taste and dietary needs makes it a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a comforting morning meal, this casserole is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, head to the kitchen, and enjoy a delicious start to your day!