Name: Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 8 large eggs; 1½ cups whole milk; 2 tsp ground mustard; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp coarse ground black pepper; ¼ tsp ground nutmeg; 2 cups Cheddar Cheese; 2 stalks Green Onions; 6 large croissants; 2 cups cooked ham

This delightful ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole is a perfect way to start your day. With its rich, savory flavors and creamy custard filling, it’s both comforting and satisfying. The croissants add a buttery texture that pairs wonderfully with the melty cheddar cheese and savory ham.

Photos of Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Ground mustard and nutmeg might not be staples in every pantry. These spices add a unique depth of flavor to the casserole, so don't skip them. Also, make sure to pick up fresh croissants from the bakery section of your supermarket for the best result.

Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

eggs: The base for the custard filling, providing richness and structure.

whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth custard.

ground mustard: Adds a subtle tangy flavor that complements the ham.

brown sugar: Provides a hint of sweetness to balance the savory ingredients.

kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

coarse ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth.

ground nutmeg: A warm spice that adds complexity to the custard.

cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to add a cheesy, gooey texture.

green onions: Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.

croissants: Buttery and flaky, they form the bread base for the casserole.

cooked ham: Provides a savory, meaty component that pairs well with the cheese and croissants.

One reader, Ianthe Figueroa says:

This ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole is a game-changer! The flavors blend perfectly, and the croissants add a delightful texture. It's easy to make and perfect for a family brunch. Highly recommend!

Ianthe Figueroa

Techniques Required

How to whisk eggs: Whisking eggs involves beating them with a whisk or fork until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy. How to spray a baking dish: Spraying a baking dish with vegetable oil spray ensures that the casserole does not stick to the dish while baking. How to toss ingredients: Tossing ingredients means gently mixing them together to ensure even distribution without breaking or crushing the components. How to cover with foil: Covering with foil involves placing a sheet of aluminum foil over the baking dish to trap heat and moisture, ensuring even cooking. How to bake: Baking involves cooking the dish in an oven at a specified temperature for a set amount of time.

How To Make Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Wake up to a tasty, filling meal with this breakfast casserole. It’s made with croissant pieces tossed with eggs, milk, and spices, plus pieces of ham.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 50 minutes

Total: 1 hour 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8large eggs
1½cupswhole milk
2tspground mustard
2tbspbrown sugar,packed
1tspkosher salt
½tspcoarse ground black pepper
¼tspground nutmeg
2cupscheddar cheese,shredded
2stalksgreen onions,sliced
6large croissants,cut into 1-inch cubes
2cupscooked ham,diced

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with vegetable oil spray.
Whisk together the eggs, whole milk, mustard, brown sugar, Kosher salt, pepper, nutmeg, cheese, and green onions in a large bowl.
Add in the croissant pieces and toss gently until the mixture is well combined.
Add half the mixture to the baking dish then sprinkle in half the ham pieces.
Add the rest of the croissant mixture and top with the remaining ham.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for 20 minutes to brown the croissants and finish cooking the custard filling.

Nutrition

Calories: 368.36kcal
Fat: 22.68g
Saturated Fat: 11.09g
Trans Fat: 0.27g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.10g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.89g
Carbohydrates: 20.77g
Fiber: 1.01g
Sugar: 7.05g
Protein: 19.57g
Cholesterol: 194.24mg
Sodium: 752.21mg
Calcium: 221.12mg
Potassium: 275.89mg
Iron: 1.71mg
Vitamin A: 195.52µg
Vitamin C: 0.56mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

For a more flavorful casserole, toast the croissant pieces lightly in the oven before mixing them with the egg mixture. This will add a delightful crunch and prevent the croissants from becoming too soggy during baking.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the ham and green onions the night before to save time in the morning.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to cut down on prep time.

Pre-slice croissants: Slice the croissants ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.

Mix dry ingredients: Combine the ground mustard, brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, and nutmeg in a small bowl the night before.

Assemble the night before: Prepare the entire casserole and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning.

Substitute Ingredients For Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe

eggs - Substitute with egg substitute: Use an egg substitute for a lower cholesterol option or if you are vegan, use a flaxseed or chia seed mixture.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative that will still provide a creamy texture.
ground mustard - Substitute with dijon mustard: Dijon mustard can provide a similar tangy flavor.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar taste.
coarse ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a similar spiciness without the black specks.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with cinnamon: Cinnamon can provide a warm, sweet flavor similar to nutmeg.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella can provide a milder flavor and a similar creamy texture.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives can provide a similar mild onion flavor.
croissants - Substitute with brioche bread: Brioche bread can provide a similar buttery and rich texture.
cooked ham - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option that can provide a similar savory flavor.

Presenting Your Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Use a rectangular white plate: Choose a sleek, modern rectangular white plate to contrast beautifully with the golden-brown croissant pieces and vibrant green onions.
Slice into neat squares: Cut the casserole into uniform squares to ensure each portion looks clean and professional. This also makes it easier to plate consistently.
Layer with precision: Place a square of the casserole slightly off-center on the plate. Ensure the ham and cheese are visible in each slice to showcase the layers.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh thyme or a few leaves of parsley on top of each portion for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Drizzle with a light sauce: Prepare a light béchamel sauce or a honey mustard glaze and drizzle it artistically around the casserole to enhance both flavor and presentation.
Add a side salad: Serve with a small side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
Use microgreens for texture: Sprinkle a few microgreens over the top of the casserole for added texture and a touch of elegance.
Finish with a dusting of spices: Lightly dust the plate with a pinch of paprika or nutmeg to tie in the flavors of the dish and add visual appeal.

Essential Tools for Making a Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Oven: Used to bake the casserole at the specified temperature to ensure even cooking and browning.
9x13-inch baking dish: The dish where the casserole will be assembled and baked.
Vegetable oil spray: Used to coat the baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
Large bowl: Used to whisk together the eggs, milk, mustard, brown sugar, salt, pepper, nutmeg, cheese, and green onions.
Whisk: Essential for thoroughly mixing the wet ingredients and ensuring a smooth custard mixture.
Knife: Used to chop the green onions and cut the croissants into pieces.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the green onions and cutting the croissants.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the milk and cheese accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the mustard, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and nutmeg precisely.
Foil: Used to cover the baking dish during the initial baking period to prevent over-browning.
Tongs: Helpful for gently tossing the croissant pieces with the custard mixture to ensure even coating.
Spatula: Useful for spreading the mixture evenly in the baking dish and ensuring all ingredients are well distributed.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Breakfast Casserole

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the croissants soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the breakfast casserole. Wrap the cooled casserole dish securely with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the dish with the date and contents.
Alternatively, you can portion the cooled casserole into individual servings and wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This allows for easy reheating of single servings.
The frozen ham and cheese croissant casserole will maintain its best quality for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
To reheat the frozen casserole, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Remove the plastic wrap and cover the dish with foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
For individual frozen portions, unwrap and place the desired number of pieces on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The time may vary depending on the strength of your microwave.

How To Reheat Leftovers

To reheat leftover ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly and drying out. Place the covered dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Another option is to reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a single serving of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and steaming. The damp paper towel will help keep the croissants moist and prevent them from becoming rubbery.
For a crispy top, you can also reheat the casserole in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place a portion of the casserole in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the top is crispy and the casserole is heated through. This method works best for individual portions and will help restore the texture of the croissants.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat smaller portions of the casserole. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a serving of the casserole on a toaster oven-safe dish. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is lightly toasted.
Lastly, you can reheat the casserole in a skillet on the stovetop. Place a portion of the casserole in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the bottom is lightly crispy. This method works well for individual portions and will help crisp up the bottom of the croissants.

Is Making This Breakfast Casserole Economical for Home Cooking?

This ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like eggs, whole milk, and cheddar cheese are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. Croissants and cooked ham might be slightly pricier, but they add a gourmet touch. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Breakfast Casserole Healthy or Unhealthy?

This ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The dish is high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium due to the use of ingredients like whole milk, cheddar cheese, croissants, and ham. The combination of these ingredients results in a meal that may contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of heart disease if consumed regularly.

However, there are several ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste:

Replace whole milk with low-fat or skim milk to reduce the overall fat content
Use reduced-fat cheddar cheese or a mix of reduced-fat cheese and a stronger-flavored cheese like parmesan to maintain the cheesy flavor while cutting down on fat
Opt for whole grain croissants or whole wheat bread to increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients
Choose lean ham or turkey ham to reduce the amount of saturated fat and sodium in the dish
Add more vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms, to boost the nutritional value and fiber content of the casserole

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious breakfast casserole that still satisfies your taste buds. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying this dish occasionally as part of a well-rounded diet is perfectly acceptable.

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Breakfast Casserole

This ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole is a delightful blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors. The use of croissants adds a buttery richness that complements the sharpness of the cheddar cheese and the saltiness of the ham. The ground mustard and nutmeg introduce a subtle depth, while the green onions provide a fresh, mild bite. The brown sugar is an interesting touch, balancing the savory elements. Overall, it's a well-rounded, comforting dish perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch.

Enhance Your Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Elevate your breakfast casserole with a side of roasted asparagus drizzled with a hint of lemon zest. The bright citrus notes will perfectly complement the rich, savory flavors of the ham and cheese croissant casserole.

Mixed Berry Salad: Add a burst of color and freshness to your meal with a mixed berry salad. The sweet and tart berries will provide a delightful contrast to the creamy, cheesy goodness of the casserole.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Pair your casserole with a warm bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. The rich, velvety texture and the aromatic basil will enhance the overall dining experience, making it a comforting and satisfying combination.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: For a hearty addition, serve garlic parmesan roasted potatoes. The crispy, golden potatoes with a hint of garlic and parmesan will add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor to your breakfast spread.

Fresh Fruit Parfait: Balance the savory elements of your meal with a fresh fruit parfait. Layers of yogurt, granola, and seasonal fruits will provide a refreshing and healthy contrast, making your breakfast both indulgent and nutritious.

Alternative Recipes Similar to This Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Spinach And Feta Croissant Casserole: Imagine waking up to the savory aroma of spinach and feta cheese mingling with buttery croissants. This dish is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast casserole, perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion. The spinach adds a healthy touch while the feta brings a tangy flavor that complements the flaky croissants beautifully.

Sausage And Mushroom Breakfast Strata: This hearty breakfast strata is a crowd-pleaser, combining the rich flavors of sausage and mushrooms with layers of bread soaked in a savory custard. It's an ideal make-ahead dish that allows you to enjoy a leisurely morning while it bakes to perfection in the oven. The mushrooms add an earthy depth, making each bite a comforting delight.

Blueberry French Toast Bake: For those with a sweet tooth, this blueberry French toast bake is a dream come true. Bursting with juicy blueberries and a hint of cinnamon, this dish transforms ordinary bread into a decadent breakfast treat. The blueberries provide a burst of freshness, making it a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Bacon And Egg Breakfast Pizza: Why not start your day with a breakfast pizza? This recipe features a crispy crust topped with bacon, eggs, and a blend of cheeses. It's a fun and delicious way to enjoy your favorite breakfast ingredients in a new format. The bacon adds a smoky crunch, while the eggs provide a rich, creamy texture.

Vegetable Quiche With Goat Cheese: A vegetable quiche is a versatile and elegant dish that can be enjoyed any time of day. This version includes a medley of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach, all nestled in a creamy custard with tangy goat cheese. The goat cheese adds a luxurious creaminess that elevates this quiche to gourmet status.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with This Breakfast Casserole

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine tender mushroom caps filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are then baked to perfection, creating a creamy and flavorful bite-sized treat. The herb-infused filling pairs wonderfully with the earthy taste of the mushrooms, making it an irresistible starter for any meal.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Freshly toasted baguette slices are topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The crunchy bread combined with the juicy tomatoes and aromatic basil creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. This simple yet elegant appetizer is perfect for any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, gooey center of a Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent treat features a warm, molten core that oozes out when you cut into it. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures. The combination of the warm, chocolatey center and the cold, creamy ice cream is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your taste buds with a Lemon Meringue Pie. This classic dessert boasts a tangy lemon filling topped with a fluffy, golden meringue. The crisp, buttery crust provides the perfect foundation for the zesty lemon curd, while the meringue adds a light, airy texture. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, and watch as your guests savor each bite of this timeless favorite.

Why trust this Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe:

This ham and cheese croissant breakfast casserole is a surefire hit for any morning gathering. The combination of fluffy eggs, savory ham, and buttery croissants creates a rich and satisfying dish. The cheddar cheese adds a delightful sharpness, while the green onions provide a fresh, subtle bite. With easy-to-follow instructions and common ingredients, this recipe is both accessible and impressive. Trust in the balance of flavors and textures to deliver a delicious breakfast that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest!

FAQ:

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. In the morning, pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Sure thing! While cheddar is delicious, you can swap it out for other cheeses like Swiss, Gruyère, or even mozzarella. It all depends on your taste preferences.

What if I don't have whole milk?

No worries. You can use 2% milk, half-and-half, or even a mix of milk and heavy cream. Just keep in mind that the richer the milk, the creamier the casserole will be.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Just make sure to cook any veggies first to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or pop it back in the oven until warmed through.