Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole! It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a Sunday morning. Imagine buttery croissants soaking up a rich, savory egg mixture, filled with delicious bits of ham and gooey cheese. Trust me, the first bite will transport you straight to brunch heaven! I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering; the aroma wafted through the house, and everyone simply couldn’t wait to dig in! It’s so versatile too—you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or cheese. Perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends, this casserole is sure to become a breakfast favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole
- 6 croissants, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup diced ham (you can use leftover ham or deli ham)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I love using a mix of cheddar and Swiss, but go with your favorite!)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk gives it a creamier texture, but any kind works)
- 1 teaspoon salt (don’t skip this—it really brings out the flavors!)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (freshly cracked is best for a little kick)
How to Prepare Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole
Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making this ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole! Don’t worry; it’s super straightforward. First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key because a hot oven means a perfectly baked casserole. While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish and grease it up—trust me, it makes serving so much easier later on!
Now, take those torn croissant pieces and layer them evenly in the baking dish. You want that buttery goodness to cover the bottom—yum! Next, sprinkle the diced ham and shredded cheese over the croissants. This layering is crucial; it ensures that every bite is packed with flavor!
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until it’s nice and frothy. You want to make sure everything is well combined, so no one gets a surprise bite of eggy goo. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the layered croissants, ham, and cheese. Give it a little wiggle to make sure it seeps into all those nooks and crannies!
Now, pop it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and the center is set. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer torn croissant pieces in the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle diced ham and shredded cheese evenly on top.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is firm.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Remember, the key to a perfect casserole is in the layering and allowing that egg mixture to soak in. You got this!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in just about 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans.
- Deliciously Savory: The combination of buttery croissants, savory ham, and melty cheese creates a flavor explosion that your taste buds will adore.
- Customizable: Feel free to throw in your favorite veggies or switch up the cheese—this recipe is super flexible to suit your taste!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning, which is a lifesaver for busy weekends.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a brunch with friends, this casserole is sure to impress everyone at the table.
- Comfort Food: It’s the ultimate cozy breakfast dish—perfect for lazy weekends or special occasions when you want to treat yourself!
- Great Leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy the deliciousness all week long!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to keep in mind:
- Use Stale Croissants: If you have leftover croissants that are a day or two old, they’re perfect for this recipe! Stale croissants soak up the egg mixture better, giving you a fluffier texture.
- Mix It Up: Don’t hesitate to swap out the ham for cooked bacon or sausage if you’re feeling adventurous! And feel free to experiment with different cheeses—pepper jack adds a nice kick!
- Vegetable Boost: Want to sneak in some veggies? Chopped spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can add extra flavor and nutrition—just sauté them lightly before adding to the layers.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your casserole. If it’s browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes to prevent burning.
- Let It Rest: Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking helps it firm up, making it easier to slice and serve. Patience is key here!
- Fresh Herbs: For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle some fresh chives or parsley on top just before serving. It really brightens things up!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a delicious and satisfying breakfast casserole that everyone will love. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, I know you’re curious about the nutritional info for this ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole! Just a little heads up—nutrition can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you choose, so these values are just estimates to give you a general idea.
- Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
- Fat: About 15g
- Saturated Fat: Roughly 7g
- Protein: Around 20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25g
- Sodium: About 600mg
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 180mg
With all that cheesy, savory goodness, this casserole is definitely a comforting choice for breakfast or brunch! Just remember to enjoy it in moderation, especially if you’re keeping an eye on those nutrition numbers. Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Got questions about the ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my best tips and tricks.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This is one of the beauties of this recipe. You can prepare it the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and pop it in the fridge. Just remember to take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking in the morning. This way, it bakes evenly and doesn’t shock your oven!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You’ll love how it still tastes delicious!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Of course! This casserole is super versatile. Feel free to swap out the cheese for whatever you have on hand or prefer. Gouda, feta, or even mozzarella work wonderfully! Just remember that different cheeses can change the flavor profile, so choose what makes your taste buds happy!
What veggies can I add?
You can sneak in lots of veggies! Spinach, bell peppers, onions, or even diced tomatoes are fantastic additions. Just sauté them lightly before layering to ensure they’re cooked through and won’t add too much moisture to the casserole.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can! Just let it cool completely, slice it into portions, and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and pop it in the oven until heated through.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This breakfast casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, or a light green salad for brunch. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick!
With these tips, you’ll be all set to create and enjoy this delightful ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole any way you like! Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers of your ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole! First things first, make sure the casserole has cooled completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make it soggy. Once it’s cooled, you can slice it into individual portions or keep it whole—totally up to you!
For storage, place the casserole in an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. This way, you can enjoy it for up to 2-3 months without losing flavor!
Now, when it’s time to reheat, you’ve got a couple of options. If you’re going for the microwave, just pop a slice on a plate and heat it up for about 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it’s warmed through. For the oven, which I recommend for the best texture, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole or slices on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it from drying out, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s nice and hot throughout. Trust me, this method keeps that cheesy goodness melty and the croissants soft!
So there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole any time you want. Happy eating!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this amazing ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for the ultimate brunch experience! You want to create a lovely spread that complements the savory, cheesy flavors of the casserole, and I’ve got just the ideas for you!
First off, a fresh fruit salad is a must! Think juicy strawberries, sweet melon, and tangy blueberries—it’s a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Plus, it adds a pop of color to your brunch table!
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, crispy bacon or breakfast sausage links are always a hit. The salty crunch of bacon or the savory bite of sausage pairs perfectly with the creamy goodness of your casserole.
For a lighter option, consider serving a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness, making each bite even more satisfying.
And if you want to take it up a notch, whip up a batch of homemade hollandaise sauce to drizzle over the casserole slices for an elegant touch. It adds a luxurious creaminess that will impress your guests!
Lastly, don’t forget about beverages! A classic mimosa or a rich cup of coffee can really elevate your brunch vibe. You could even make a refreshing iced tea for a non-alcoholic option!
With these serving suggestions, your ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole will shine even brighter, making your meal unforgettable. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole: 7 Heavenly Layers
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A savory ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole that is perfect for brunch.
Ingredients
- 6 croissants, torn into pieces
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish.
- Layer croissant pieces, ham, and cheese in the dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the croissant layer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Use any type of cheese you prefer.
- This can be made ahead of time and baked in the morning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole
