This Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake is a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast or brunch dish. It combines buttery croissants, savory ham, and melted cheese, all baked together in a creamy, egg-based custard for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

4 large croissants, cut into pieces
1 cup diced cooked ham
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 ½ cups milk
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons melted butter
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Arrange the croissant pieces evenly in the prepared dish.
Sprinkle the diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese over the croissants.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant and ham layers.
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the bake.
Press down gently on the croissants to ensure the liquid soaks in.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Let the bake cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350 per serving
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 4g
Sodium: 650mg

History of Croissants

Croissants, the buttery, flaky pastries that are beloved worldwide, have a rich and storied history. While many associate them with France, their origins actually trace back to Austria. The creation of the croissant is often linked to the 17th century, when Viennese bakers crafted a crescent-shaped pastry to celebrate the defeat of the Ottoman Empire during the siege of Vienna. French pastry chefs later adopted and popularized the pastry, adding their own flair, and today, the croissant is a staple in bakeries and breakfast tables worldwide.

The Rise of Savory Bakes

Over the years, croissants have been used in both sweet and savory recipes. While the classic croissant is enjoyed with a bit of jam or chocolate, savory versions have gained popularity, especially in breakfast and brunch dishes. Combining croissants with savory ingredients like ham and cheese creates a more substantial meal that is perfect for gatherings or family breakfasts. The croissant’s rich, buttery texture provides a great contrast to the savory flavors of the fillings, making it a beloved choice for savory bakes.

Importance of Using Fresh Croissants

For a dish like Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake, the quality of the croissants plays a key role in the final result. Fresh, soft croissants give the bake a melt-in-your-mouth texture, while slightly stale croissants are often preferred for a dish like this. Stale croissants absorb the custard mixture more effectively, leading to a richer, denser flavor. However, using fresh croissants is acceptable if you prefer a lighter, fluffier texture.

Role of Ham in the Recipe

Ham serves as the main protein in this bake, adding a salty and savory contrast to the buttery croissants and melted cheese. The use of cooked ham is common in this dish, as it provides a tender texture that complements the flaky croissants. You can choose between different types of ham, such as deli ham, honey ham, or even leftover roasted ham. Each variety of ham brings its unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize the dish to your liking.

The Versatility of Cheese

Cheese is a fundamental ingredient in this recipe, offering a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth element that binds the croissants and ham together. Cheddar cheese is commonly used in Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake due to its sharpness and meltability. However, you can experiment with different cheeses to change the flavor profile. Gouda, Swiss, mozzarella, and even a blend of cheeses can be used in place of cheddar to create a unique variation of the dish.

Egg Custard Mixture

The egg custard mixture is the key to binding the ingredients together and ensuring that the bake has a soft, creamy texture. This mixture is typically made by whisking together eggs, milk, and seasonings. The custard soaks into the croissants, turning them into a rich, flavorful base for the ham and cheese. The milk helps to lighten the texture of the bake, while the eggs provide structure and a silky, custard-like consistency when baked.

Adding Mustard for Extra Flavor

Dijon mustard is a subtle but important addition to this recipe. It adds a tangy, zesty kick that enhances the savory elements of the ham and cheese. The mustard’s sharpness contrasts beautifully with the richness of the croissants and cheese, creating a balanced flavor profile. While mustard is optional, it’s highly recommended for those looking to elevate the flavor of the bake without overwhelming the dish.

Seasoning Variations

While garlic and onion powder are standard in many savory bakes, you can adjust the seasoning to suit your personal tastes. If you enjoy a bit of heat, you could add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. Fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, also pair well with this dish and can be sprinkled into the egg mixture or used as a garnish after baking. Customizing the seasoning allows you to personalize the dish according to your flavor preferences.

Baking Time and Temperature

Baking the Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake at the right temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. The recipe calls for a 350°F oven, which allows the croissants to bake evenly without becoming too dry or overcooked. The bake should be cooked until the top is golden brown, and the custard is set, which typically takes about 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on the bake during the final few minutes to avoid over-browning the top.

Importance of Resting Time

After removing the Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake from the oven, it’s essential to let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the custard to firm up and ensures that the bake holds together when sliced. Skipping this step can result in a slightly runny or unstable dish. Letting the bake rest also allows the flavors to settle, making the dish even more enjoyable.

Make-Ahead Options

This recipe is a great option for meal prep or making ahead of time. You can assemble the dish the night before and store it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply bake it for 30-35 minutes until it’s golden brown and cooked through. This makes it a convenient option for busy mornings or when hosting guests for brunch.

Freezing the Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake

If you want to prepare this dish in advance and freeze it for later, you can do so with great success. Assemble the entire dish, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake it straight from the freezer, but be sure to add extra time to the baking process. Freezing the bake allows you to have a delicious, homemade breakfast or brunch dish ready at a moment’s notice.

Serving Suggestions

Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake is a hearty and satisfying dish that can be served on its own or paired with a variety of sides. For a lighter meal, serve it with a simple green salad or fresh fruit. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or tomatoes, for a more complete meal. If you’re making this for a large gathering, consider offering additional sides like potato wedges or a variety of dips to round out the meal.

Healthier Substitutes

If you’re looking for a healthier version of this dish, there are several substitutions you can make. Opt for whole-wheat croissants or low-carb bread alternatives to reduce the calorie content. You can also use leaner cuts of ham, such as turkey or chicken, to lower the fat content. Additionally, using reduced-fat cheese and milk can help reduce the overall calorie count while still maintaining the dish’s creamy texture.

Customizing the Recipe

The beauty of the Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or use ingredients you have on hand. For a vegetarian version, swap the ham for sautéed mushrooms or spinach. You can also add other fillings, such as bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes, to boost the nutritional value and add color to the dish.

Choosing the Right Bakeware

The type of bakeware you use can affect the final outcome of the dish. A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe, providing enough space for the croissants to bake evenly. If you don’t have a 9×13-inch dish, a similar-sized casserole dish or even a deep roasting pan will work. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if you use a different-sized dish.

Perfect Pairings

Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of beverages. For a morning brunch, serve it with freshly brewed coffee, orange juice, or a mimosa for a celebratory touch. For a more casual meal, consider serving it with a cold glass of iced tea or sparkling water. The combination of the rich, savory bake with a refreshing drink creates the perfect balance.

Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, reheating the Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake is simple. For the best results, reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, covering it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker reheating method, but the texture may not be as crisp as when baked in the oven.

Conclusion

The Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together the rich, buttery texture of croissants with the savory goodness of ham and cheese. With its versatility, you can easily customize the recipe to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or served at a brunch gathering, this bake is sure to be a hit. Its ease of preparation, make-ahead options, and ability to be customized make it a go-to dish for any occasion.

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