This Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake is a warm, cheesy delight that uses buttery croissants, savory ham, and gooey cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy gathering or a weekend treat!
Everyone loves a good brunch, especially when it’s this easy to make. Just layer the ingredients, pour on the egg mixture, and let the oven do the work. Trust me, it’ll be a hit! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: These flaky pastries give the dish its lovely texture. If you can’t find croissants, you could use large bread rolls or even bagels for a different spin. Just adjust the baking time as needed.
Ham: I love using cooked ham for its convenience. You could also substitute turkey, or for a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms or a mix of roasted veggies!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds sharpness. A blend of mozzarella and cheddar works great too. If you’re looking to cut calories, consider using part-skim cheese or skipping it entirely.
Heavy Cream: For richness, heavy cream is ideal. You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk if you want a lighter version, but the bake may be less creamy.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tanginess. If you don’t have it, regular mustard or even a splash of hot sauce can give a similar flavor punch.
How Do I Make Sure the Croissants Soak Up the Egg Mixture?
The soaking process is really important for a delicious bake! After pouring your egg mixture over the croissants, gently press them down. This helps them soak in the custard. If you have time, letting it sit for at least 15 minutes is key. I often prepare it the night before and keep it in the fridge for extra flavor and convenience.
- Make sure your croissant pieces are arranged snugly in the dish for even soaking.
- Cover it with foil during the first bake to trap steam, keeping the croissants soft and fluffy.
- Don’t skip letting it rest before baking – it makes all the difference!
How to Make Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 6 large croissants, halved or cut into large pieces
- 8 oz (about 225g) cooked ham, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend like cheddar and mozzarella)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional for flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious brunch bake takes about 15 minutes for prep and 45-50 minutes of baking time. If you want to make it ahead, you can let it soak in the fridge overnight, which is a great way to save time in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab your 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This will help prevent sticking later on.
2. Prepare the Croissants:
Cut your croissants into halves or large pieces. Arrange them evenly in the greased baking dish; you want them to fit snugly so they soak up all the delicious custard later!
3. Add Ham and Cheese:
Now, scatter the chopped ham and shredded cheese evenly over the croissant pieces. Make sure to get some between the croissant pieces too—it’s like hiding little treasures of flavor!
4. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is well combined and smooth.
5. Pour and Soak:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, ham, and cheese. Press down gently on the croissants with a fork or spatula to make sure they soak up the custard. Let it sit and soak for at least 15 minutes. If you prefer, you can cover it and refrigerate it overnight for a ready-to-bake breakfast!
6. Baking Time:
Cover the baking dish with foil and pop it in the oven for 30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a bit. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a lovely finishing touch.
Enjoy this warm, savory croissant bake—it’s perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While croissants add a delightful flaky texture, you can use large bread rolls, brioche, or even bagels if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as necessary, as different breads may take more or less time to cook through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this bake vegetarian by omitting the ham. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave, or place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add Extra Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other ingredients like cooked bacon, different cheeses, or even a sprinkle of herbs for added flavor. Just remember to keep the proportions balanced so the dish remains moist and flavorful.