This Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake is a warm and cozy dish that’s perfect for a weekend gathering. Soft croissants, savory ham, and gooey cheese come together for a tasty treat.
It’s so easy to whip up! I love tossing everything in one dish and watching as it puffs up in the oven. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds (and maybe thirds)! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Use fresh croissants for the best texture. If you can’t find them, buttery pastries like brioche or even day-old bagels could work as substitutes.
Diced Cooked Ham: I love using leftover holiday ham, but you can swap in turkey ham or even cooked sausage for a different flavor. Vegetarian options? Go for sautéed mushrooms or chopped spinach.
Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Swiss offers great taste, but feel free to use mozzarella or pepper jack for a flavor twist. Grate your cheese fresh for better melty goodness!
Eggs: I always stick to large eggs, but if you have medium-sized, just use an extra egg to match the volume. For a dairy-free version, try using flax eggs or a chickpea flour mixture.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang, but you can leave it out or use yellow mustard instead. A teaspoon of hot sauce can also give it a little kick!
How Do You Ensure the Croissants Soak Up the Egg Mixture Properly?
To achieve that perfect, custardy texture, allowing the croissants to soak in the egg mixture is key. After placing the torn croissants in your baking dish, make sure to pour the egg mixture slowly and evenly over them. Gently press each piece down to help absorb the liquid. If you have time, letting it sit overnight in the fridge will enhance the flavors and texture even more!
- Prepare your mixture before assembly to have everything ready.
- Cover tightly with foil and use a heavy dish to press down the croissants for an even soak.
- After soaking, check that the croissants are not dry by ensuring they’re fully submerged in the liquid.
This soaking technique is what gives this brunch bake its mouthwatering custard-like filling, making every bite delightful and rich! Enjoy your cooking adventure.
Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 6 large croissants, torn or cut into large chunks
- 1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or a mix)
For the Egg Mixture:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful brunch bake will take about 15 minutes of prep time and then about 40-45 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to plan for at least 30 minutes of soaking time in the fridge (you can even do it overnight!). So overall, it’s a simple 1 hour and a little bit of waiting for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish (or a similar size) and grease it well with butter or cooking spray to keep everything from sticking.
2. Arrange the Croissants:
Now, take those croissants and tear or cut them into large bite-sized pieces. Spread them out evenly in your greased baking dish. Make sure they fill the bottom nicely.
3. Add Ham and Cheese:
Next, scatter the diced ham and your choice of shredded cheese over the top of the croissant pieces. Make sure it’s distributed evenly so that everyone gets a taste of that savory goodness!
4. Whisk Together the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, add the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s well blended. This mixture will make your bake nice and fluffy!
5. Pour and Soak:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, ham, and cheese. Use your hands or a spoon to gently press the croissant pieces down into the liquid, helping them soak it up well.
6. Chill in the Fridge:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This step allows the croissants to absorb the custard, making it super tasty!
7. Bake It Up:
When you’re ready to bake, remove the foil and pop the dish into your preheated oven. Let it bake for 40-45 minutes, or until you see that the custard has set, the top is golden brown, and the edges of the croissants look crispy.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This little cooling time helps it to set further. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, slice it up and serve your tasty Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake warm. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or any of your favorite brunch sides!
This dish is a fantastic blend of flaky croissants, melted cheese, and savory ham, bringing happiness to any brunch gathering. Enjoy!
Can I Use Day-Old Croissants for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Day-old croissants work perfectly because they’re a bit drier, making them ideal for soaking up the egg mixture. This will result in a wonderful texture in your bake!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Just substitute the croissants with gluten-free bread or rolls. Be sure to check that your ham and any added ingredients are also gluten-free to keep the whole dish compliant.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. You may want to cover it with foil while reheating to keep it from drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Bake?
Definitely! Feel free to add some sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or even diced tomatoes into the mix. Just make sure to sauté them first to reduce moisture, ensuring the bake doesn’t become soggy.
