Hey there, fellow food lovers! I’m so excited to share my *Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake* with you. This dish is a total game changer for breakfast or brunch and it’s just so easy to whip up! Seriously, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to make something so delicious. Imagine fluffy croissants soaked in a creamy egg mixture, layered with savory ham and melty cheese. Trust me, it’s comfort food at its finest! Plus, it’s perfect for gatherings or even a cozy family morning at home. You can prep it in no time, and the best part? It fills the house with the most mouthwatering aroma while it bakes. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe, shall we?
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients for this *Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake* is super easy, and I promise you’ll have most of them on hand! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 croissants, sliced in half: Go for buttery, flaky ones that will soak up all the deliciousness.
- 1 cup diced ham: You can use leftover ham or deli ham—whatever you have works great!
- 1 cup shredded cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and Swiss for that perfect melty texture, but feel free to choose your favorite.
- 4 eggs: These will create that lovely custard-like base that holds everything together.
- 1 cup milk: Whole milk is my go-to for richness, but any milk will do.
- 1 teaspoon mustard: A little mustard adds a nice tang; Dijon works well if you want a kick!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season; it brings all the flavors to life!
With these ingredients prepped, you’re all set to create some breakfast magic!
How to Prepare Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake
Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Let’s get started! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures everything bakes evenly and gets that beautiful golden color. While that’s warming up, grab a baking dish and give it a good greasing with butter or cooking spray. This step is crucial, as it keeps your croissant bake from sticking and makes for easy cleanup!
Layering the Ingredients
Now, onto the fun part—layering! Take your sliced croissants and lay them cut-side up in the bottom of your baking dish. You want to create a cozy little base for all that deliciousness. Once they’re arranged, sprinkle your diced ham evenly over the croissants, followed by a generous amount of shredded cheese. I like to make sure every nook and cranny is filled with cheese so every bite is gooey and melty!
Mixing the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, crack those eggs and whisk them together with the milk, mustard, salt, and pepper. Make sure to mix it thoroughly—this is what binds everything together and gives that lovely custard texture. You want to see a smooth, creamy mixture without any bits of egg floating around. I usually whisk for a good minute to make sure it’s well combined!
Baking Instructions
Once your egg mixture is ready, pour it evenly over the layered croissants, ham, and cheese. Give it a little jiggle to help the mixture seep down into all those layers. Now, pop your dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes—you’re looking for a golden top and for the center to be set. A little jiggle is okay, but it shouldn’t be too wobbly. When it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen—trust me, it’s heavenly!
Nutritional Information
Now, I know many of you are curious about the nutritional aspect of this *Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake*. Just a quick heads up: these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider this a ballpark estimate. Typically, one serving has around 350 calories, with 22g of fat, 17g of protein, and 25g of carbohydrates. It’s hearty and satisfying, making it a great way to start your day. Just remember to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly simple to make, perfect for busy mornings!
- The combination of flaky croissants, savory ham, and gooey cheese is just divine.
- It’s a fantastic dish for brunch gatherings or lazy Sunday breakfasts.
- You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it versatile.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) make for a delicious snack or quick meal.
Trust me, once you try this *Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake*, it’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your *Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake* comes out absolutely perfect! First up, don’t skimp on the seasoning; a pinch of salt and pepper can really elevate the flavors, so taste as you go! If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some herbs like thyme or chives for an extra layer of flavor.
Also, feel free to mix up the cheese! A blend of mozzarella and pepper jack adds a lovely kick, while gouda brings a nice smokiness. And if you want to make it a bit healthier, you can swap out some of the croissants for whole grain bread. Just adjust the baking time slightly if you do that, as whole grain tends to absorb more moisture.
Lastly, let it sit for a few minutes after baking before serving. This helps it set up nicely and makes slicing so much easier. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about my *Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake* is how easily you can switch things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand! For a twist on flavors, try adding some sautéed spinach or sautéed mushrooms for a veggie-packed version. You could also throw in some diced bell peppers for a pop of color and crunch.
If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat! And let’s not forget about the cheese—experiment with different types! Feta or goat cheese can lend a tangy flavor, while pepper jack adds a nice kick. You can even make it a breakfast classic by tossing in some crumbled bacon or sausage for extra heartiness. The possibilities are endless—get creative and make this dish your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve got some delicious *Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake* leftovers? Lucky you! To store any extras, simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. This helps keep it fresh and prevents it from drying out. You can pop it in the fridge, where it should last for about 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze! I recommend warming it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through. This way, you’ll keep that lovely texture and flavor intact. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave a portion for about 1-2 minutes, but be careful not to overdo it, or you’ll end up with a chewy bite. Enjoy every scrumptious bite again!
Serving Suggestions
To round out your *Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake*, I recommend serving it with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of greens with a light vinaigrette brings a nice balance to the richness of the bake. You could also pair it with some juicy, sliced tomatoes or fresh fruit for a pop of color and sweetness. If you’re feeling indulgent, why not add a side of crispy bacon or sausage links? It’s a delightful combination that makes for a hearty breakfast or brunch spread!
For more delicious salad ideas, check out this Greek Pasta Salad recipe! You can also learn about the health benefits of eggs here!
Print
Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake: 5 Steps to Breakfast Bliss
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious ham and cheese croissant bake that is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 6 croissants, sliced in half
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish.
- Layer the bottom with sliced croissants.
- Add diced ham and shredded cheese on top.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the croissant layers.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and set.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use any type of cheese you prefer.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake