Ham And Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake

Name: Ham And Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 6 large croissants; 1 cup diced ham; 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 6 large eggs; 1 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Recipes

When I decided to create this Ham And Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake, I wanted something that combined ease with a touch of luxury. The flaky, buttery croissants are the perfect base, and the combination of rich cheese and savory ham takes breakfast to the next level. This dish is extremely satisfying and can be prepared in advance, allowing us to enjoy leisurely mornings without any fuss. If you want a dish that impresses without requiring much time to prepare, this is the one for you!

Created by

Florence Keaton

Last updated on 2026-02-16T06:21:36.302Z

As I was experimenting with this recipe, I discovered that letting the croissants soak in the egg mixture for a bit longer than usual resulted in a nicely custardy texture. Each bite delivers that delightful combination of gooey cheese, salty ham, and the sweetness of the croissant. It's a breakfast that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make.

One of my favorite tips is to use a variety of cheeses; the classic combination of Swiss and cheddar adds wonderful flavor and richness. I also recommend preparing it the night before for an effortless morning treat. Baking it fresh in the morning fills the house with an irresistible aroma.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Flaky, buttery croissants filled with rich ham and cheese
Versatile and can be prepared the night before
Perfect balance of savory and creamy flavors

Ingredient Spotlight: Croissants

The choice of croissants is essential to achieving that luxurious, flaky texture that makes this breakfast bake special. Opt for high-quality, butter-rich croissants for maximum flavor. If you're looking to switch things up, consider using chocolate or almond croissants for a sweet twist. However, remember that the overall flavor profile will change, so adjust the accompanying ingredients, especially the types of cheese used.

For a time-saving option, day-old croissants work wonderfully here. They're firmer and will absorb the egg mixture better without becoming overly soggy. If you’re using fresh croissants, cutting them into smaller pieces can help them soak up the egg mixture more readily, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Perfecting the Egg Mixture

The egg mixture is the backbone of this dish, providing moisture and structure. When whisking, aim for a well-combined mixture that should look frothy and glossy. This not only helps in evenly coating the croissants but also ensures a custard-like texture after baking, making each slice creamy and rich. If you find the mixture too thick, adding a splash more milk can help thin it out for better distribution.

Incorporating herbs or spices into the egg mixture can elevate the flavor even further. A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce can add a subtle warmth, while fresh herbs like chives or thyme can introduce an aromatic touch that beautifully complements the cheese and ham. Just be careful not to overpower the primary flavors of ham and cheese.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the entire dish the night before, covering it tightly and refrigerating until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to your baking time if baking straight from the fridge. This is beneficial for busy mornings, allowing you to simply pop the dish in the oven while you get ready.

If you have leftovers, this dish reheat like a dream! Simply store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick breakfast, although the oven method will keep the croissants flaky.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start your delicious breakfast bake:

Ingredients

6 large croissants
1 cup diced ham
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 large eggs
1 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

This simple ingredient list makes a delightful dish that everyone will love!

Instructions

Here's how to prepare this delicious breakfast bake:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Prepare the croissants

Cut the croissants in half and layer the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish.

Add ham and cheese

Sprinkle evenly with diced ham and half of the shredded cheese.

Mix the egg mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.

Combine and bake

Pour the egg mixture over the croissant layers and top with the remaining cheese. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and set.

Garnish and serve

Once done, let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Once baked, this dish becomes a beautiful centerpiece for brunch!

Pro Tips

For a twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. This not only adds color but also enhances the flavor! Also, feel free to use different types of cheeses for a unique taste.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Garnishing with fresh parsley not only enhances the appearance of your dish, making it more appetizing, but it also adds a fresh burst of flavor. If you want to take it a step further, consider a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a pinch of smoked paprika on top before serving for an extra layer of depth and color. You can also pair this dish with a light fruit salad or yogurt on the side to balance the richness of the croissants and cheese.

Serving this bake at brunch gatherings can be an eye-catcher even among a buffet spread. Consider slicing it into squares or wedges for easy serving. This dish also invites customization; alongside ham and cheese, you can add sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and taste, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're hosting a larger gathering, scaling this recipe up is easy. Simply increase the number of croissants, maintaining the same proportions for the egg mixture and other ingredients. For a large crowd, consider using a larger baking dish or multiple smaller dishes. Just be mindful of the baking time; a deeper dish may require a few extra minutes in the oven, so check for the golden-brown visual cue and a set center.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, this recipe can be halved quite easily. Use three croissants instead, and divide the other ingredients accordingly. This is a great way to indulge in a comforting dish without the worry of excessive leftovers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Absolutely! Just assemble the ingredients, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake as directed.

→ Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can substitute croissants with brioche or any soft bread, but the texture will differ slightly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I freeze this breakfast bake?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.