Name: Irresistible Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 6 medium Croissants (Provides a buttery, flaky texture); 12 oz Black Forest Ham (Adds savory, meaty flavor); 8 oz Provolone Cheese (Offers a mild, creamy taste); 6 Large Eggs (Binds the casserole together); 2 cups Whole Milk (Contributes moisture); 1 tsp Seasoning Salt (Enhances overall flavor); 1 tsp Black Pepper (Adds gentle kick); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Brings depth of flavor); 1 tsp Dry Mustard (Infuses a tangy note); 1 tsp Dried Rosemary (Adds aromatic element); 1 tsp Dried Thyme (Complements other herbs); 2 tbsp Butter (Used for greasing baking dish); 2 tbsp Honey (Adds sweetness); 1 tbsp Prepared or Dijon Mustard (Provides tangy kick)

The rich aroma of buttery croissants wafting through the kitchen often transports me to cozy brunches spent with family and friends. It’s moments like these that inspired my Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake, a dish that’s perfect for any holiday gathering or special occasion. This easy-to-prepare breakfast casserole combines flaky croissants with savory ham and gooey cheese, creating a crowd-pleaser that can effortlessly feed a group. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time with loved ones rather than stressing over the stovetop. If you’re ready to impress your guests and elevate your brunch game, grab your baking dish—this delightful recipe awaits! What will you pair with it for the ultimate breakfast spread?

Why is this breakfast bake a must-try?

Irresistible, the combination of buttery croissants and savory ham creates a breakfast dish that’s hard to resist. Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble it a day prior, allowing flavors to meld and saving you precious time during brunch prep. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This casserole comfortably feeds a group, making it the star of any gathering. Versatile Twist: Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses or add veggies like spinach for a personalized touch. Serve it alongside a refreshing fruit salad or warm pastries for a complete spread guests will rave about!

Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Ingredients

• Perfect recipe for your next brunch gathering!

Medium Croissants – Provides a buttery, flaky texture; substitute with any preferred bread if croissants aren’t available.
Black Forest Ham – Adds a savory, meaty flavor; other deli hams can be used for variation.
Provolone Cheese – Offers a mild, creamy taste; can replace with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor.
Large Eggs – Binds the casserole together, creating a fluffy texture.
Whole Milk – Contributes moisture; almond milk or cream can be used if a dairy-free option is desired.
Seasoning Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; feel free to adjust to your taste.
Black Pepper – Adds a gentle kick; fresh ground pepper is always a great choice.
Garlic Powder – Brings depth of flavor; fresh minced garlic can be substituted for a more robust taste.
Dry Mustard – Infuses a tangy note; use prepared mustard for a different flavor aspect.
Dried Rosemary – Adds an aromatic element; fresh rosemary can provide a bolder flavor.
Dried Thyme – Complements the other herbs; fresh thyme works wonders in this dish.
Butter – Used for greasing the baking dish and part of the honey topping.
Honey – Adds sweetness and balances the savory elements; agave syrup or maple syrup can be a substitute.
Prepared or Dijon Mustard – Provides a tangy kick to the honey butter, enhancing the dish’s flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take a 9×13 baking dish and generously grease it with butter to ensure your Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake easily releases after baking. The butter will also add to the lovely golden color of your casserole.

Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, crack in the large eggs and pour in the whole milk. Add seasoning salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dry mustard, dried rosemary, and dried thyme. Whisk this mixture together vigorously until it is smooth and all the spices are well incorporated, creating a flavorful base for your breakfast bake.

Step 3: Soak the Croissant Halves
Take your medium croissants and carefully slice each one in half. Briefly dip each half into the egg mixture, allowing them to soak up the flavors. Once soaked, arrange the croissant halves haphazardly in the greased baking dish, ensuring they cover the bottom evenly for the best texture in your Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake.

Step 4: Layer with Ham and Cheese
Fold the black forest ham slices to make them manageable, tucking them between the croissant halves in the baking dish. Next, sprinkle the provolone cheese over the assembled croissants and ham. This layering adds a delicious, gooey richness that elevates the flavor of your breakfast casserole.

Step 5: Pour and Rest
Once the ham and cheese are layered, pour any remaining egg mixture evenly over the top of your dish. This step ensures that every croissant absorbs the mixture’s savory goodness. Allow the Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake to rest for about 15 minutes, giving the croissants time to soak up all those delicious flavors.

Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake the casserole for 30 minutes. This will allow the egg mixture to set while keeping the croissants tender. After baking, check the center to ensure it is firm and not jiggly, which indicates proper cooking.

Step 7: Prepare the Honey Mustard Mixture
While your casserole is baking, it’s time to prepare the honey mustard topping. In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, honey, and prepared or Dijon mustard until well combined. This sweet and tangy mixture will add a delightful finish to your Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake.

Step 8: Finish Baking Uncovered
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the casserole. Brush the top with the honey mustard mixture, ensuring every croissant receives a touch of that sweet flavor. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is fully set.

Step 9: Rest Before Serving
Once baked to perfection, remove your Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the casserole firm up a bit more and makes it easier to cut into servings. Enjoy this delightful breakfast dish with your favorite sides!

What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake

The aroma of this delightful casserole pairs beautifully with an array of dishes that elevate your breakfast experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and melons adds a refreshing, sweet contrast to the savory breakfast bake.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered with honey and granola, this parfait offers a creamy, crunchy accompaniment that balances flavors perfectly.
Crispy Hash Browns: Golden and crunchy, hash browns introduce a satisfying crispiness that complements the soft croissant texture.
Savory Sausage Links: Juicy, spiced sausages enhance the meaty flavor while providing an additional protein boost to the meal.
Smoothie Bar: A variety of blended fruit smoothies can add a fun and nutritious drink option for your guests. Choose tropical or green smoothies for freshness!
Warm Pastries: Croissants or danishes bring an extra touch of indulgence and decadence to your brunch spread, welcoming everyone to enjoy.
Coffee or Mimosa: A rich cup of coffee or a sparkling mimosa is the perfect drink choice to wash down your flavorful breakfast and keep conversations rolling.

Make Ahead Options

This Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake is ideal for busy mornings and can be prepared ahead of time to save you precious minutes! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance – simply follow the initial steps, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate overnight. To maintain quality, ensure the croissants soak well in the egg mixture before chilling, as this enhances their flavor and texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply let the casserole come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. With this make-ahead option, enjoy delicious, home-cooked goodness without the morning rush!

Helpful Tricks for Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast

Assemble Overnight: Prepare your casserole the night before for enhanced flavors; just remember to let it reach room temperature before baking.
Croissant Freshness: Use freshly baked croissants for the best texture; stale croissants can lead to a soggy breakfast bake.
Broil for Crispiness: For an irresistible crispy top, give your casserole a quick broil at the end but watch closely to prevent burning.
Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning salt and spices according to your preference; tasting the egg mixture first can guide you.
Explore Variations: Don’t hesitate to swap in different cheeses or add veggies to create your own twist on this Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake!

How to Store and Freeze Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the casserole fresh and ready for quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To bring back that delicious texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. This ensures the Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake stays fluffy and moist.

Room Temperature: Allow the dish to cool completely before storing, as residual heat can cause condensation and affect the dish’s quality.

Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delicious breakfast bake to fit your taste and dietary needs!

Turkey Option: Swap ham for turkey for a lighter version. This offers a different savory flavor while still being satisfying.
Bacon Boost: Add crispy bacon pieces in place of ham. The crunchy texture and smoky flavor will elevate each bite to a delightful level.
Cheese Change: Experiment with gouda or feta for a unique twist. Each cheese brings its own character, transforming the dish entirely.
Veggie Delight: Introduce spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and a pop of color. It creates a vibrant, flavor-packed bake that’s just as hearty.
Dairy-Free Twist: Use almond milk and dairy-free cheese for a vegan-friendly version. You don’t have to miss out on deliciousness!
Heat it Up: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their breakfast.
Herb-Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or chives can replace dried thyme and rosemary. This adds a bright flavor that’s incredibly refreshing.
Sweet Maple Syrup: Drizzle real maple syrup on top before serving for a sweet-savory fusion everyone will adore.

If you love creative breakfasts, don’t forget to check out my Sweet Potato Breakfast for another crowd-pleaser! Or try these Squash Scramble Breakfast Tacos for a unique twist on traditional breakfast!

Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best croissants for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for croissants that are fresh from the bakery or the grocery store. They should have a lovely golden color and a flaky, buttery texture. Avoid croissants with dark spots all over or those that feel overly hard, as they can lead to a less desirable casserole texture.

Can I make this breakfast bake ahead of time?
Very! In fact, assembling your Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake the night before is a great option. Simply prepare it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking before placing it in the preheated oven.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
For sure! Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 3 days. Just make sure the dish has cooled down completely before sealing it to prevent condensation. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing portions as described below.

How do I freeze this breakfast casserole?
Absolutely, freezing is a great option! To freeze, wrap individual portions of the Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored this way for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Very much so! Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can enhance the nutritional value and flavor of your casserole. Just make sure to sauté or lightly cook the veggies first to release moisture, as this will prevent the casserole from becoming soggy during baking.

Is this dish suitable for my pets?
Oh, it’s best to keep this dish away from your furry friends! While ham and cheese are tasty for us, they can be too rich or salty for pets. Additionally, ingredients like garlic powder can be harmful to dogs. Stick to pet-friendly treats for your four-legged companions!