The holidays are around the corner, and I can almost taste the buttery warmth of a comforting breakfast that feels both indulgent and effortlessly simple. Picture this: golden, flaky croissants layered with savory ham and molten gruyere cheese, draped in a creamy custard and baked to perfection. It’s called Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake, and let me tell you, it’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings everyone together at the table.
I stumbled upon this delightful recipe while trying to find a way to impress my family during our holiday brunch. With its rich textures and mouthwatering taste, it quickly became a crowd favorite. Best of all, it’s straightforward to prepare, making it a lifesaver for those busy mornings when you want something special but without the stress. Drizzling a bit of fresh hollandaise sauce takes it to another level, creating a breakfast experience that your loved ones will rave about. So, whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a hearty meal, this dish is sure to shine!
Why love the Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake?
Irresistible appeal: This dish doubles as a straightforward recipe and a showstopper for any holiday brunch.
Rich flavors: The combination of buttery croissants, savory ham, and creamy gruyere creates an indulgent taste experience.
Versatile base: Easily adapt it with different breads or add veggies to suit your gathering’s needs.
Effortless prep: Perfect for busy mornings, you can assemble it the night before for less stress.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone will rave over this comforting bake, making it ideal for family and friends alike!
For more delicious ideas, check out our best holiday breakfast recipes.
Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Ingredients
For the Bake
• Croissants – Use stale croissants for optimal absorption of the custard.
• Sliced Ham – Choose quality deli ham or uncured smoked ham for the best flavor.
• Shredded Gruyere Cheese – Grate fresh cheese for better melting and rich creaminess.
• Unsalted Butter – Great for sautéing onions and greasing the pan; substitute with olive oil if needed.
• Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves – Imparts a lovely herbal freshness; dried thyme works in a pinch.
• Fresh Sage Leaves – Offers an aromatic flavor; rosemary can be a good substitute.
• Half and Half – Creates a rich custard base; non-dairy alternatives can be used but may alter texture.
• Eggs – Provide essential structure and richness to bind the ingredients.
• Dijon Mustard and Whole Grain Mustard – Adds tanginess; yellow mustard is an acceptable substitute.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust according to the ham’s saltiness.
• Ground Black Pepper – Use freshly ground for a stronger heat.
• Freshly Grated Nutmeg – Adds warmth and complexity; optional but highly recommended.
• Minced Chives – For garnish; green onions can be used instead or omitted.
For the Hollandaise Sauce (optional)
• Egg Yolks – The base for a velvety texture in the sauce.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens up the sauce with acidity; adjust to taste.
• Melted Butter – Creates a rich and creamy consistency; use clarified butter for best results.
This Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake is sure to become a holiday favorite, making those special breakfasts even more unforgettable!
How to Make Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake
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Prep Croissants: Tear your stale croissants into large pieces. If you don’t have stale croissants, you can briefly bake them at 250°F for about 40 minutes to dry them out slightly.
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Sauté Onions: In a skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the yellow onion and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in fresh thyme and sage, then set aside.
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Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 baking pan with a little butter or olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Layer Ingredients: Begin layering by adding half of the torn croissants to the pan. Top with half of the sliced ham, half of the shredded gruyere cheese, and half of the sautéed onions. Repeat the layer with the remaining ingredients.
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Make Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the half and half, eggs, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, nutmeg, kosher salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Pour this custard evenly over the layered ingredients and press down gently to help absorption.
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Soak & Bake: Let the dish soak for about 30 minutes to ensure the croissants absorb the custard fully. Preheat your oven to 350°F, then bake for 40-45 minutes until it’s golden brown on top; cover with foil if browning too quickly.
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Garnish & Serve: Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before garnishing with minced chives. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors together!
Optional: Drizzle with homemade hollandaise sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake?
The perfect meal should always indulge the senses and make wonderful memories around the table.
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Crispy Roasted Potatoes: The golden, crispy texture of roasted potatoes pairs beautifully with the creamy custard of the bake, adding a delightful crunch to every bite.
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Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the croissant bake.
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Savory Quiche: Complement the hearty breakfast with a slice of quiche; it brings an elegant touch while maintaining a comforting vibe, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Sweet Fruit Platter: Vibrant and juicy fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and melons offer a natural sweetness that balances the savory richness of your dish.
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Creamy Hollandaise Sauce: Drizzling a bit more hollandaise over the bake enhances its flavor. That silky sauce will elevate each bite, intensifying the collective experience.
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Mimosas or Fresh Juice: A refreshing mimosa or freshly squeezed orange juice is an ideal drink choice, brightening the meal while pairing perfectly with the savory and tangy notes of the dish.
These delicious additions will not only complete your holiday spread but will also create a feast your loved ones are sure to remember.
Expert Tips for Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake
- Stale Croissants: Using stale croissants is crucial; they soak up the custard without becoming overly soggy.
- Sauté Onions Right: Ensure onions are softened well before adding them to the layers; this step enhances flavor significantly.
- Watch the Soaking: Limit soaking time to avoid excess moisture; 30 minutes is perfect for optimal texture in your Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake.
- Foil for Baking: If the top starts browning too quickly, cover with foil to allow the inside to cook thoroughly without burning the crust.
- Fresh Cheese: Always grate fresh cheese instead of using pre-shredded for a creamier melt that enhances the overall taste.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake in advance is a fantastic time-saver for busy mornings! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours ahead by following all the steps until the soaking point, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the croissants to absorb the custard thoroughly, ensuring a flavorful result. For optimal freshness, bake it just before serving; preheating the oven and baking the dish for 40-45 minutes will give you that golden, fluffy perfection. If you’re planning to enjoy leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to maintain quality!
How to Store and Freeze Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake
Fridge: Store the Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for a warm meal.
Freezer: If you have leftovers, freeze the bake in portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating, ensuring a moist texture.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through; this helps retain the dish’s wonderful texture.
Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Variations
Customizing this delicious dish can take your breakfast experience to delightful new heights!
- Brioche Swap: Use brioche instead of croissants for a sweeter, denser base that adds a lovely richness to each bite.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute croissants with gluten-free bread to create a gluten-free version that’s just as delectable and satisfying.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate spinach or sautéed mushrooms among the layers for extra nutrition and vibrant flavor. Feel free to mix and match veggies according to your taste.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or fontina for a unique flavor twist. Each cheese brings its own character to the dish, turning the bake into a flavor adventure.
- Spicy Addition: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to introduce a spicy heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy custard.
- Herb Twist: Swap fresh thyme and sage for a mix of fresh basil and parsley to highlight lighter, more refreshing notes in your dish. This keeps flavors interesting and bright!
- Cranberry Delight: Layer in some dried cranberries or fresh slices for a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the salty ham and rich cheese.
- Vegan Version: Replace eggs and half-and-half with a blend of silken tofu and plant-based milk for a vegan adaptation. Don’t forget to use vegan cheese for the perfect melt!
Let your creativity run wild; every variation you try will weave unique memories into your holiday gatherings!
Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best croissants for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake, use stale croissants. Stale croissants absorb the custard better, resulting in a more flavorful dish. If you can’t find stale croissants, you can dry them out by baking fresh croissants at 250°F for about 40 minutes.
How should I store leftovers of the Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal or warm them up in the oven for a better texture.
Can I freeze the Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake?
Definitely! To freeze your bake, let it cool completely, then cut it into portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Your delicious dish will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to savor it again, thaw the portions overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I do if my croissant bake turns out too soggy?
Don’t worry; this can happen sometimes! If your Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake ends up too soggy, it could be that the croissants didn’t soak up enough custard. To fix this in the future, ensure you’re using stale croissants, and limit the soaking time to about 30 minutes. Additionally, consider reducing the half and half or eggs slightly to achieve a thicker custard.
Can I make this dish dairy-free or gluten-free?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, simply substitute the half and half with a non-dairy milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. To make it gluten-free, choose a gluten-free bread that’s sturdy enough to hold the custard and adjust soaking time accordingly, as gluten-free bread can sometimes absorb liquid differently.
Is this recipe safe for pets, and are there any allergenic ingredients?
I always recommend checking with a vet if you’re unsure, but this dish contains several ingredients that may not be suitable for pets, such as onions and cheeses, which can be harmful. If you have allergies, be cautious of the mustard, which may contain allergens. Checking labels will help ensure everyone at your table can enjoy this delightful Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake!
Irresistible Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake for Holiday Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Tear your stale croissants into large pieces. If you don’t have stale croissants, you can briefly bake them at 250°F for about 40 minutes to dry them out slightly.
- In a skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the yellow onion and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in fresh thyme and sage, then set aside.
- Grease a 9x13 baking pan with a little butter or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Begin layering by adding half of the torn croissants to the pan. Top with half of the sliced ham, half of the shredded gruyere cheese, and half of the sautéed onions. Repeat the layer with the remaining ingredients.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the half and half, eggs, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, nutmeg, kosher salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Pour this custard evenly over the layered ingredients and press down gently to help absorption.
- Let the dish soak for about 30 minutes to ensure the croissants absorb the custard fully. Preheat your oven to 350°F, then bake for 40-45 minutes until it’s golden brown on top; cover with foil if browning too quickly.
- Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before garnishing with minced chives. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors together!