ham and cheese croissant

Name: Ham and Cheese Croissant
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 large croissants; 4 slices ham; 4 slices Swiss cheese; 1 tablespoon butter (softened)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe Pin it

You know those mornings, right? The ones where you hit snooze one too many times, the coffee pot is barely gurgling, and the thought of a proper breakfast feels like a distant dream. I’ve been there, probably more times than I’d like to admit! That’s exactly why I’m so excited to share this ham and cheese croissant bake with you today. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a little bit of morning magic. Imagine flaky, buttery croissants, savory ham, gooey cheese, all baked into one irresistible casserole. It’s like a warm hug in a dish, and honestly, it smells absolutely divine while it’s baking. If you’ve ever loved a classic Breakfast Casserole or a perfectly baked ham and cheese sandwich, then this is going to be your new obsession. Seriously, the ham and cheese croissant bake is a game-changer for busy weekdays and leisurely weekend mornings alike. This recipe has become such a staple in my home, and I just know you’re going to adore it too!

What is a Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake?

So, what exactly is this magical ham and cheese croissant bake? Think of it as the ultimate comfort food breakfast, elevated. It’s essentially a deconstructed ham and cheese sandwich meets a French Toast Casserole, all rolled into one delicious dish. We take day-old croissants (or even fresh ones, if you’re feeling fancy!) and sort of tear them up, then we nestle them in a creamy, savory custard made with eggs, milk, and a touch of Dijon mustard for that classic ham and cheese zing. Then, we load it up with generous chunks of delicious ham and plenty of melty cheese – typically a mix of cheddar and maybe some Gruyère for extra nutty flavor. It’s all baked together until it’s puffed up, golden brown, and utterly irresistible. The croissants soak up all that lovely eggy goodness, becoming tender on the inside while the edges get delightfully crispy. It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors, all in one easy-to-make bake. It’s way more exciting than just toast, but just as simple to whip up!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Honestly, there are so many reasons why I keep coming back to this ham and cheese croissant bake, and I’m sure you’ll find your own too! First off, the flavor is just out of this world. You get the rich, buttery notes from the croissants, the salty, savory goodness of the ham, and that wonderfully gooey, stretchy cheese. The custard itself adds a lovely creaminess, and that hint of Dijon? It’s the secret weapon that really ties the ham and cheese together. It’s not overwhelmingly rich, but it’s deeply satisfying. Then there’s the simplicity. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, especially if you have slightly stale croissants. It’s the kind of dish that looks and tastes like you spent hours on it, but in reality, it comes together in under 20 minutes of active prep time. It’s a lifesaver on busy mornings when you need something delicious but don’t have a lot of time. And let’s talk about cost-efficiency! Using day-old croissants is a fantastic way to reduce food waste and save a few bucks. Plus, the other ingredients – eggs, milk, cheese, and ham – are all pretty standard pantry staples. What really sets this apart for me, though, is its versatility. While it’s a breakfast superstar, it’s also fantastic for a lazy weekend brunch or even a comforting weeknight dinner when you’re craving something a little more special. It’s also incredibly forgiving. You can totally customize the cheese, add in some sautéed onions or bell peppers, or even throw in a bit of cooked spinach. It’s the kind of recipe that feels comforting and familiar, yet always exciting. What I love most about this is that it’s genuinely a crowd-pleaser. My kids gobble it up, my husband asks for it every time we have guests, and it always gets rave reviews. It truly is a standout recipe that delivers on flavor, ease, and pure deliciousness.

How do you make a Ham and Cheese Croissant?

Quick Overview

This ham and cheese croissant bake is all about layering deliciousness and letting the oven do the work. You’ll start by prepping your pan and roughly tearing up your croissants. Then, you’ll whisk together a simple, savory custard base. Once that’s ready, it’s as easy as tossing the croissants, ham, and cheese into the custard, giving it a gentle mix, and pouring it all into your prepared baking dish. A quick bake in the oven until it’s golden and bubbly, and voilà! You have a breakfast masterpiece. It’s a foolproof method that ensures every bite is packed with flavor and that perfect balance of tender and crispy textures. It’s truly one of the easiest yet most rewarding bakes you can make.

Ingredients

For the Main Bake:
6-8 croissants, preferably a day old or slightly stale (about 8-10 cups torn)
1.5 cups diced cooked ham (thick-cut deli ham or leftover baked ham work beautifully)
2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère is my personal favorite, but Monterey Jack or Swiss are great too!)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (this is key for that classic ham and cheese flavor!)
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper, or to taste

For the Custard:
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze (Optional, but highly recommended!):
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 teaspoon poppy seeds (adds a lovely visual and a little crunch)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to give it a good greasing with butter or cooking spray to make sure nothing sticks. This step is super important, trust me! You don’t want your beautiful bake to get stuck to the pan. A well-greased dish means easy serving and less cleanup, which is always a win in my book.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Now, let’s talk croissants. Grab your slightly stale croissants and tear them into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry about being too neat here; rustic is good! You want a mix of sizes, some bigger chunks, some smaller bits. This helps create different textures in the final bake. Aim for roughly 8-10 cups of torn croissants. Once they’re all torn up, spread them out a bit in your greased baking dish. Next, sprinkle your diced ham evenly over the croissant pieces, followed by your shredded cheese. Give it a gentle toss with your hands or a spatula just to distribute everything nicely. The goal is to have ham and cheese interspersed throughout the croissant mixture.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, crack your 6 large eggs. Add the 2 cups of whole milk (or half-and-half if you’re feeling decadent – it makes it extra creamy!). Now, stir in the 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard and the 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of Black Pepper. Whisk it all together really well until everything is completely combined and the mixture is a uniform pale yellow color. You want to make sure there are no streaks of egg white left. This custard is what will bind everything together and give our bake that delicious, moist texture.

Step 4: Combine

Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the croissant, ham, and cheese mixture in the baking dish. Now, gently press down with your spatula or hands to make sure all those croissant pieces are getting coated in the custard. You don’t want to mash it, just encourage everything to soak up the liquid. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time is crucial – it allows the croissants to really absorb the custard, which makes for a much more tender and flavorful bake. It’s like giving them a little head start before they hit the oven.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

This step is technically already done as part of Step 2, where we incorporated the diced ham and shredded cheese! The beauty of this ham and cheese croissant bake is that the “filling” is built right in. The ham provides that savory, meaty element, and the cheese melts into gooey pockets of deliciousness throughout the bake. I’ve found that using good quality, pre-cooked ham makes a big difference. You can use leftover roasted ham, good quality deli ham, or even Canadian bacon if you prefer. The cheese blend is also key for flavor – I love the sharp bite of cheddar paired with the nuttiness of Gruyère, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

The “layering” happens naturally in Step 2 when you distribute the ham and cheese over the torn croissants in the baking dish before pouring the custard over it. There’s no fancy swirling required here, which is part of what makes this recipe so wonderfully simple! The cheese will melt and mingle with the ham and croissants as it bakes, creating delightful pockets of cheesy goodness throughout the casserole. The key is just to ensure an even distribution of the ham and cheese so you get that perfect flavor combination in every single bite.

Step 7: Bake

Now for the best part! Pop that baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bake is puffed up, golden brown on top, and the center is set. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out mostly clean, though you might get a little melted cheese on it, which is perfectly fine! If the top starts to get too brown before the center is cooked, you can always loosely tent it with aluminum foil. The aroma filling your kitchen during this time is just heavenly, by the way!

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Once it’s baked to perfection, carefully remove the ham and cheese croissant bake from the oven. Let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time is important because it allows the bake to set up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve. While it’s cooling, if you’re using the optional glaze, whisk together the 1 tablespoon of melted butter and 1 teaspoon of poppy seeds in a small bowl. Drizzle this mixture lightly over the top of the warm bake. It adds a beautiful sheen and a subtle crunch that complements the savory flavors perfectly. Don’t overdo it, just a light drizzle is all you need.

Step 9: Slice & Serve

After it’s had a chance to rest, you can slice this glorious ham and cheese croissant bake into generous squares. Serve it warm right out of the dish. The edges will be slightly crisp, the inside soft and custardy, and the pockets of melted cheese and savory ham are simply divine. It’s a complete meal in itself, but it also pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad if you’re serving it for brunch or dinner.

What to Serve It With

This ham and cheese croissant bake is so wonderfully versatile, you can honestly serve it with just about anything! For a classic Breakfast, a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee is perfection. I love serving it with a side of berries – strawberries or raspberries add a lovely touch of freshness. If you’re making it for a more elaborate Brunch, consider elevating your plating. Serve slices on individual plates with a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley. It pairs wonderfully with a light mimosa or a sparkling cider. You could also add a small side of hollandaise sauce for a decadent touch! If you find yourself with a craving for something comforting later in the day, this bake is fantastic as a light Dessert or even a satisfying lunch. Imagine serving a smaller portion with a dollop of crème fraîche and a sprinkle of microgreens – it feels quite sophisticated! And for those times when you just need a cozy, no-fuss meal, it’s a dream for Cozy Snacks. It’s incredibly satisfying on its own, but if you want something extra, a side of creamy Tomato Soup is absolutely divine with it. My family tradition is to have this on Christmas morning. We always have a big spread, but this bake is the star that everyone gravitates towards first. It just brings everyone together and feels so special, even though it’s so easy to make.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake

Over the years, I’ve learned a few little tricks that can take this already delicious ham and cheese croissant bake from great to absolutely unforgettable. Let’s dive into some of my favorite tips and tricks! For the croissants, the key is using ones that are a day old or even slightly stale. Fresh, super soft croissants can sometimes turn a bit too mushy. If yours are super fresh, you can lightly toast them in the oven for a few minutes before tearing them up. This helps them hold their shape better. When it comes to mixing, don’t overwork the mixture once the custard is added. Gently press down to ensure everything is moistened, but avoid vigorous stirring, which can break down the croissants too much. You want those lovely flaky bits! For the cheese, grating your own cheese from a block almost always melts better and tastes richer than pre-shredded cheese, which can sometimes contain anti-caking agents. My favorite combination is sharp cheddar for a classic flavor and Gruyère for its nutty, complex notes, but feel free to experiment! A good tip for the ham is to dice it into fairly small, uniform pieces so you get ham in every bite. If you’re using thicker-cut ham, just make sure the dice size is consistent. Now, about the custard: I’ve tested this with just milk, and it’s good, but using half-and-half or even a combination of milk and cream truly elevates the richness and creaminess of the bake. It’s worth the little splurge if you can! Baking time can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it. If the top is browning too quickly, a loose tent of aluminum foil will save the day. And for the optional glaze, the poppy seeds are fantastic, but you could also add a pinch of paprika to the melted butter for a little color and extra flavor. My biggest lesson learned was not letting it rest long enough after baking. Allowing it to sit for at least 5-10 minutes really helps the bake hold its structure, making it so much easier and cleaner to slice and serve. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in the final presentation and texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

One of the things I love most about this ham and cheese croissant bake is how well it stores and reheats. It’s just as delicious the next day, which makes it perfect for meal prep or simply for enjoying leftovers. When storing leftovers, make sure the bake has cooled down completely. Once it’s at room temperature, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer portions into an airtight container. Stored properly at Room Temperature, leftovers are generally good for about 2-3 hours, but I always prefer to refrigerate them if they won’t be eaten within that time. For Refrigerator Storage, the bake will stay fresh and delicious for about 3-4 days. The quality is best if you keep it in its original baking dish or a good quality airtight container to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to reheat, you have a few options. For individual portions, you can pop a slice into the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. For larger amounts or if you want to regain some of that crispy texture, I highly recommend reheating it in a conventional oven. Place the desired amount in an oven-safe dish and warm it in a preheated oven at around 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can even pop it under the broiler for a minute or two at the end to get the top nice and crispy again! If you want to freeze portions for later, make sure it’s completely cooled. Wrap individual slices or smaller portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well in the Freezer Instructions for up to 1-2 months. To thaw, simply transfer the frozen portions to the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as directed. For the glaze, if you plan on storing leftovers, I’d recommend adding the glaze *after* reheating, just before serving. This will help keep those poppy seeds from getting soggy and maintain their texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can definitely make this ham and cheese croissant bake gluten-free. The best way to do this is to substitute the croissants with your favorite gluten-free bread or rolls. I’ve had success using day-old gluten-free baguette slices or even thick-cut gluten-free sandwich bread. You’ll want to tear them into similar bite-sized pieces. The amount might vary slightly depending on the density of your gluten-free bread, but aim for a similar volume to the croissants. The custard mixture and other ingredients remain the same. Keep in mind that gluten-free baked goods can sometimes absorb liquid a bit differently, so you might want to let the mixture sit for an extra 5-10 minutes after pouring the custard over it to ensure good absorption. The texture might be slightly different than with traditional croissants, but it will still be incredibly delicious!

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

This recipe does not include zucchini, so there’s no need to worry about peeling it! This is a ham and cheese croissant bake, focusing on buttery croissants, savory ham, and gooey cheese. If you were thinking of a different recipe, zucchini is often peeled if you prefer a smoother texture in baked goods like zucchini bread or muffins, as the peel can sometimes be a bit tough or visually unappealing. However, for this particular bake, zucchini is not an ingredient!

Can I make this as muffins instead?

You absolutely can! Making this ham and cheese croissant bake as muffins is a fantastic idea, especially for individual servings or for bake sales. You’ll want to prepare the mixture as directed, then spoon it into greased or lined muffin tins, filling them about two-thirds to three-quarters full. Since they’re individual portions, the baking time will be shorter, likely around 18-25 minutes, or until puffed and golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as they can bake quickly. The ratio of ingredients should work well for muffins. It’s a great way to make this recipe portable and easy to serve!

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

This ham and cheese croissant bake is designed to be savory, so it doesn’t contain any added sugar in the main mixture. The “sweetness” comes naturally from the slight sweetness in the croissants themselves. If you find your croissants are particularly sweet, or if you prefer a less sweet base, you won’t need to adjust anything. The primary flavors are savory from the ham and cheese, and rich from the custard. If you were looking to add a touch of sweetness in a controlled way, you could consider adding a very small amount (like 1 teaspoon) of honey or maple syrup to the custard mixture, but I generally don’t find it necessary for this recipe. The focus is on the classic ham and cheese flavors.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

The glaze is totally optional, but it does add a nice finishing touch! If you don’t have melted butter and poppy seeds, or just prefer not to use a glaze, there are several other delicious alternatives. You could simply skip it entirely – the bake is still fantastic on its own. Another option is to sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese over the top during the last 5-10 minutes of baking for extra cheesy goodness. You could also brush the top lightly with milk or cream just before baking for a slightly richer crust. A sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning after baking also adds a lovely savory crunch. For a slightly different flavor profile, a very light dusting of finely chopped chives or parsley after baking looks and tastes great.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my beloved ham and cheese croissant bake! I truly hope you give this recipe a try. It’s one of those dishes that just makes you feel good, from the moment you start prepping it to the last delicious bite. It’s proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to create something truly special and satisfying. The combination of flaky croissants, savory ham, and melty cheese baked into a creamy, custardy dream is something everyone should experience. It’s perfect for those relaxed weekend mornings, a delightful brunch centerpiece, or even a comforting weeknight meal when you just need a little culinary hug. I’ve shared so many of my personal tips and tricks, hoping to give you the confidence to make this bake shine in your own kitchen. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my other breakfast bakes or savory pastry recipes – they’re all made with the same heart and soul! I can’t wait to hear what you think of this ham and cheese croissant bake! Please let me know in the comments below how yours turns out, and if you have any fun variations or tips of your own. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious, savory bite!

No ratings yet