Ham Cheese Croissant Breakfast

Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole is the answer to lazy weekend mornings when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen This cozy bake transforms buttery croissants ham and Swiss cheese into a custardy slice that tastes like a brunch café treat but is easy enough for a weekday crowd pleaser at home

The first time I made this I hoped it would win over my picky nephew and the empty dish before noon told me everything I needed to know No leftovers ever

Ingredients

• Croissants: fresh or preferably a little stale for best texture they soak up the custard perfectly and create the fluffiest base choose all butter croissants for the richest result
• Deli ham: go for thick sliced if possible for hearty bites I prefer smoked or honey ham for extra flavor
• Shredded Swiss cheese or Gruyère: adds that classic creamy melt aim for a block and shred it yourself for best melt and taste
• Eggs: best if fresh and large for a sturdy custard base
• Half and half or whole milk: for a creamy custard heavier dairy means richer flavor
• Salt: use kosher or sea salt for brighter seasoning
• Mustard powder: gives a gentle tang and depth check date for freshness for best flavor
• Garlic powder: brings in a subtle savory note
• White or black pepper: both work just use freshly ground for more punch
• Pure maple syrup: not pancake syrup real maple creates that upscale sweet savory contrast
• Powdered sugar: for garnish pick a fine sift for the prettiest finish
• Raspberry jam or extra maple syrup: for spooning over ensure your jam is high fruit for brightness

Instructions

Prepare the Casserole Dish:

Coat a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with butter or baking spray then set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit This prevents sticking and gives a golden crust

Assemble the Base:

Scatter the cubed croissants evenly into the dish then layer on the ham and Swiss cheese Toss gently with clean hands or a spatula to combine without breaking up the bread too much This ensures every bite is balanced

Make the Custard:

In a large bowl whisk together the eggs until uniform Add the half and half salt mustard powder garlic powder pepper and maple syrup Whisk for a full minute until frothy for the smoothest custard

Add Custard and Soak:

Slowly pour the custard over the croissant mixture pressing down gently with the back of a spoon to help the bread soak up the liquid Make sure all croissant pieces get a little bath in custard Let the casserole rest uncovered for at least twenty minutes on the counter or cover with foil and chill overnight for extra plumpness

Bake:

Cover the dish with foil and place on the middle oven rack for twenty minutes Uncover and bake for another twenty to twenty five minutes until puffed up set in the middle and the top is deeply golden brown Jiggle the dish gently it should not look loose in the center

Finish and Serve:

Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least ten minutes before slicing for easiest serving Sprinkle powdered sugar over the top if desired and serve with raspberry jam or extra maple syrup at the table for those who love more sweetness

Whenever I bake this I look forward to the corners where cheese bubbles up between the croissants The cheese stretches are always fought over at my table and my little one likes to sneak the crispy bits

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely before covering Store tightly in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven or microwave for best texture The casserole stays moist for up to three days

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap Swiss for Gruyère mozzarella or even cheddar for a sharper flavor Layer in cooked bacon or turkey in place of ham for your own spin Dairy free milk can work in a pinch with a slight change in richness

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices with fresh fruit and a big green salad to cut through the richness For a special brunch I add a mimosa or iced coffee and it always feels like a celebration

Cultural and Historical Context

Breakfast casseroles like this are a staple in American brunch culture marrying French pastry indulgence with classic ham and cheese breakfast flavors Think of it as a homey riff on a croque monsieur but meant for sharing

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap in sautéed spring asparagus or spinach for a refreshing twist Top summer versions with halved cherry tomatoes before baking Tuck in roasted squash or mushrooms for an autumn cozy take

Success Stories

Friends have brought this casserole to potlucks and returned with empty pans every time This casserole became a winter holiday breakfast tradition in our family after the first taste

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can assemble the casserole through the custard soaking stage and freeze tightly covered When morning comes thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed For best results add five extra minutes to baking time out of the fridge

This breakfast casserole makes every brunch feel indulgent yet is easy enough to make any day of the week Prep ahead for a stress free treat and enjoy the best of sweet and savory in each bite

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, Gruyère or any melting cheese can be used to add your favorite flavor and texture.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavors and a softer texture.

→ What other meats work well?

Cooked bacon, sausage, or turkey can be substituted for ham based on preference.

→ Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes. Bake, cool completely, then freeze. Thaw overnight and reheat until warm throughout before serving.

→ How do I know when it's done baking?

The center should be set and the top golden brown. A knife inserted should come out mostly clean.

→ What's the best way to serve this dish?

Let it rest for a few minutes, dust with powdered sugar, and serve with jam or extra maple syrup.