Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake
There’s something magical about the combination of flaky, buttery croissants, savory ham, and gooey, melted cheese. This Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake has quickly become a staple in our household, and it’s no surprise why. I first decided to make this recipe on a chilly Sunday morning when I wanted to surprise my family with something warm and hearty, yet easy enough to whip up without too much fuss. The result? Pure joy around the breakfast table—even my pickiest eater asked for seconds!
What I love most about this dish is its versatility. It’s perfect for a lazy weekend breakfast, but it also shines as a crowd-pleaser for brunch gatherings or holiday mornings. The way the croissants soak up the rich, eggy custard while still maintaining their crispy edges is simply irresistible. And let’s not forget that satisfying pull of melted cheese when you take your first bite—it’s comfort food at its finest.
I’ve made this bake countless times, tweaking it here and there to make it just right. What’s great is that you can easily customize it with your favorite cheeses or add a handful of fresh herbs for a pop of flavor. My kids love it just as it is, and my husband swears it’s better than any breakfast casserole he’s ever had. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will earn a spot in your family’s favorites too.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I use store-bought croissants? Absolutely! Store-bought croissants work perfectly for this recipe. In fact, day-old croissants are ideal because they soak up the custard without becoming too soggy.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can! Assemble the bake the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
What other fillings can I use? While ham and cheese are a classic combination, feel free to experiment. Try adding cooked bacon, turkey, spinach, or even caramelized onions for a twist.
How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat slices in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven keeps the croissants crispier.
What You Need to Make Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake
Ingredients:
6 large croissants, sliced in half
12 slices of ham
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix)
6 large eggs
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Tools:
A 9×13-inch baking dish
Whisk
Mixing bowl
Knife and cutting board
How to Make Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer the croissants: Arrange the bottom halves of the croissants in the baking dish. Top each with two slices of ham and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Place the top halves of the croissants back on.
Prepare the custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Pour the custard: Slowly pour the egg mixture over the croissants, ensuring each one is evenly soaked.
Let it sit: Allow the dish to rest for 10-15 minutes to let the custard soak in.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving, if desired. Enjoy warm!
Tips for Making the Best Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake
Use day-old croissants: Slightly stale croissants absorb the custard better and prevent a soggy texture.
Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Freshly shredded cheese melts much better.
Customize the flavors: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the custard for a subtle depth of flavor, or mix in chopped chives for a fresh, oniony kick.
Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the bake to sit before and after baking ensures the custard is evenly absorbed and set.
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This was a hit with my family! The croissants were perfectly crispy on top and soft underneath. Definitely making this again for brunch.” – Sarah M.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Super easy and delicious! Next time, I might try adding some spinach for extra veggies.” – Emily T.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for busy mornings. I made it the night before, and it was so easy to bake in the morning. My kids loved it!” – Laura G.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great recipe! I used Swiss cheese instead of cheddar, and it turned out amazing. Will definitely be adding this to our weekend rotation.” – Mike P.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Tasty, but a little too rich for my taste. I’ll try using less cream next time.” – Jessica H.
Printable Recipe
Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake
This Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake combines flaky croissants, savory ham, and melted cheese in a creamy custard for the ultimate brunch dish. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress your family and guests!
Ingredients
- 6 large croissants, sliced in half
- 12 slices of ham
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Tools:
- A 9x13-inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the croissants: Arrange the bottom halves of the croissants in the baking dish. Top each with two slices of ham and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Place the top halves of the croissants back on.
- Prepare the custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the custard: Slowly pour the egg mixture over the croissants, ensuring each one is evenly soaked.
- Let it sit: Allow the dish to rest for 10-15 minutes to let the custard soak in.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving, if desired. Enjoy warm
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
There’s nothing better than sharing the joy of a delicious recipe with friends and family. If you loved this Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake, don’t keep it to yourself! Snap a picture of your dish, post it on social media, and tag me so I can see your creations. You can also share the recipe link with your loved ones. Let’s spread the love of good food, one bake at a time!