This Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake is a warm and cozy dish that’s perfect for gatherings! Flaky croissants are layered with savory ham and gooey cheese, making it super tasty.
It’s like brunch got leveled up! 😊 I love how easy it is to prepare—just layer, pour, and bake. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover croissants. Enjoy it with good coffee!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Using day-old or slightly stale croissants is best. They soak up the egg mixture better. If you’re in a pinch, you can use bread or brioche instead for a similar texture and taste.
Eggs: Large eggs are ideal, but you can swap them out for egg substitutes if you’re looking for a lower-fat option. Each egg can be replaced by 1/4 cup of egg substitute.
Milk: While whole milk gives richness, you can use 2% milk, almond milk, or even lactose-free options if needed. Just remember, the creamier the milk, the richer the bake!
Cheese: Swiss cheese is classic, but feel free to experiment! Gruyère and cheddar work great too. For a dairy-free option, look for plant-based cheeses that melt well.
Ham: Leftover holiday ham is perfect for this dish. If you need a substitution, diced turkey or even cooked bacon will give it a nice flavor.
Herbs: Fresh chives or parsley were my pick for garnish, but feel free to swap in your favorite herbs like basil or thyme for a different twist!
How Do I Ensure My Croissants Absorb the Egg Mixture Properly?
The key to a perfect brunch bake is letting those croissant pieces soak up the egg mixture. After pouring the egg mixture over the croissants, gently press them down. This helps ensure every bite is flavorful and moist.
- Let the dish rest in the fridge for at least an hour; overnight is even better!
- Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to prevent shock in the oven.
- Keep the dish covered with foil initially, to trap steam and ensure the custard sets nicely.
How to Make Ham And Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 6 large croissants, day-old or slightly stale
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced or sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère/cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional, for a subtle tang)
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious brunch bake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then requires at least 1 hour to soak in the refrigerator. Baking will take around 45-50 minutes, giving you well over an hour before it’s ready to serve. Overall, it’s perfect for an easy brunch that you can prep ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish or similar casserole dish and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Tear the Croissants:
Next, take the croissants and tear or slice them into bite-sized pieces. Spread these evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will be the base of your delicious bake!
3. Add Ham and Cheese:
Now, evenly distribute the diced ham and shredded cheese over the croissant pieces. This layering is key to ensure each bite is flavorful and cheesy!
4. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together with the milk (or half-and-half), salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). If you want that extra tang, whisk in the Dijon mustard. Make sure everything is well combined!
5. Combine and Soak:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, ham, and cheese in the dish. To help the croissants soak up some of that delicious mixture, gently press down on them with a fork or your hands.
6. Refrigerate:
Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it soak for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you want to prepare it ahead of time. This step makes your bake extra yummy!
7. Prepare to Bake:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to bake, take the dish out of the fridge to let it come to room temperature. This ensures even baking!
8. Bake:
Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for a nicely set custard and a golden-brown top.
9. Cool Down:
When it’s finished baking, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This rest period helps it firm up a bit more, making serving easier!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your delicious bake with chopped fresh chives or parsley to add a pop of color. Serve it warm alongside coffee or your favorite brunch sides. Happy brunching!
Can I Use Fresh Croissants Instead of Stale Ones?
While day-old or slightly stale croissants work best for absorption, you can use fresh croissants. Just be sure to let them sit out for a few hours to dry out a bit so they soak up the egg mixture effectively.
How Long Can I Refrigerate the Dish Before Baking?
You can refrigerate the dish for at least 1 hour, but it’s even better if you let it sit overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a richer taste!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They should keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven until heated through.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is a classic choice, you can swap it with Gruyère or cheddar based on your preference. For a dairy-free option, look for plant-based cheeses that melt well! Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.
