“Fumbling through the kitchen at dawn, I stumbled upon an idea that would transform chaotic mornings into something extraordinary. Enter the Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake—a delectable dish that merges the buttery goodness of croissants with savory black forest ham and creamy provolone cheese. What makes this recipe truly shine is its effortless preparation and versatility, easily serving a crowd during the holiday hustle or weekend brunch. With just about 90 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a fluffy, golden casserole ready to impress even the pickiest eaters. Are you ready to elevate your breakfast game and create a delightful memory around the table?”
Why is this bake a breakfast must?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of buttery croissants, savory black forest ham, and creamy provolone cheese creates a mouth-watering experience that’ll have your family asking for seconds.
Easy preparation: This dish requires little effort, so you can enjoy more time with loved ones during those busy holiday mornings. Just layer and bake!
Versatile options: Whether swapping ham for crispy bacon or adding your favorite sautéed veggies, this recipe invites creativity to match your tastes.
Crowd favorite: Perfect for brunch gatherings or festive holiday breakfasts, it promises to please everyone from kids to adults, ensuring smiles all around.
Enjoy with fresh fruit or a simple green salad, and if you want more delicious breakfast ideas, check out our Cranberry Cream Cheese or savory Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger dishes!
Ham and Cheese Croissant Ingredients
For the Bake
- Medium Croissants – Use fresh baked croissants for best flavor, giving the bake its signature buttery texture.
- Large Eggs – They provide structure and richness; feel free to substitute with egg beaters for a lighter option.
- Whole Milk – A creamy addition to the custard; you can swap this with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Seasoning Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish; regular salt can work as a substitute if needed.
- Ground Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; switch to white pepper for a less visible fleck in the bake.
- Garlic Powder – Imparts a savory note; fresh minced garlic can elevate the dish with enhanced flavor.
- Dry Mustard – Adds a tangy depth to the custard; Dijon mustard is a great alternative if you have it on hand.
- Dried Rosemary – Offers an earthy aroma; fresh rosemary can be substituted using slightly more for a bolder taste.
- Dried Thyme – Complements the rosemary with its herbal notes; using fresh thyme also works beautifully.
- Sliced Provolone Cheese – This cheese melds the flavors together; mozzarella can be a suitable substitute if needed.
- Sliced Black Forest Ham – The dish’s main protein that lends a deep flavor; turkey ham is a lighter alternative.
For the Topping
- Honey – Sweetens the mustard topping, adding a delightful balance; feel free to use maple syrup as an alternative.
- Melted Butter – Provides moisture and richness to the topping; for a dairy-free option, consider coconut oil.
- Prepared or Dijon Mustard – Essential for the honey topping; any favorite mustard will work, with yellow mustard as a milder choice.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal of your delicious Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake after baking.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the large eggs, whole milk, seasoning salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, dry mustard, dried rosemary, and dried thyme until completely smooth. This mixture will create a flavorful custard that soaks into the croissants, perfect for your bake.
Step 3: Soak the Croissants
Carefully cut the medium croissants in half and place them in the egg mixture, allowing them to soak for about 3 minutes on each side. This soaking process ensures that your croissants absorb all the delicious flavors, enhancing the final result of your Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake.
Step 4: Layer Croissants and Fillings
Once the croissants are well-soaked, layer them in the greased baking dish. Tuck slices of black forest ham and provolone cheese between each layer of croissants, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. This layering adds texture and richness to your bake.
Step 5: Add Remaining Egg Mixture
Pour any remaining egg mixture evenly over the layered croissants, making sure to cover them thoroughly. Allow the assembled dish to rest for about 15 minutes; this gives the croissants time to absorb more of the custard mixture, ensuring a fluffy bake.
Step 6: Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, allowing the breakfast bake to set and cook through. The croissants should become golden and fluffy during this time.
Step 7: Prepare the Topping
While the bake is baking, prepare the honey topping by mixing honey, melted butter, and your choice of mustard in a small bowl. This sweet and tangy mixture will create a beautiful glaze on top of your Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake in the final step.
Step 8: Brush Topping and Finish Baking
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. Brush the honey topping generously over the surface and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the bake is set.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once done, remove the Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This resting time makes it easier to cut and serve, ensuring a warm and fluffy treat for your breakfast table.
What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake
Elevate your breakfast experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement this rich and fluffy bake.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors, making each bite feel balanced and light.
- Simple Green Salad: Crisp greens tossed with a light vinaigrette provide a crunchy texture that offsets the richness of the croissant bake beautifully.
- Herbed Potatoes: Roasted or sautéed potatoes with fresh herbs offer a satisfying heartiness, pairing wonderfully with the cheesy, buttery layers of your dish.
- Savory Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt, granola, and berries create an appealing breakfast tower that brings sweet and tart notes to the table.
- Crispy Bacon Strips: The smoky, salty crunch of crispy bacon complements the rich ham, enhancing the overall breakfast experience.
- Hot Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage rounds out the meal, offering comfort and warmth as you gather around the table with loved ones.
These sides mingling with your Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake make for a truly memorable morning feast!
How to Store and Freeze Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help retain moisture and flavor, ensuring that your Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake remains delicious.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled bake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the dish the night before and refrigerate, making it hassle-free to bake fresh in the morning for a delightful breakfast!
Ham and Cheese Croissant Variations
Customize this delightful dish and take your breakfast bake on a flavor journey that tantalizes every taste bud!
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Bacon Swap: Replace the ham with crispy bacon for a smoky, savory twist that everyone will adore. The combination of flavors will have your guests raving for more.
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Veggie Delight: Add sautéed spinach or bell peppers for a boost of freshness and color. This veggie-packed version brings a hearty, nutritious element to your brunch table.
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Cheese Medley: Mix in a blend of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for an extra cheesy experience. The gooey goodness brings a delightful texture contrast.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to ignite your taste buds. This version offers a zesty spark without overwhelming the classic flavors.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like basil or parsley in addition to the rosemary and thyme. Fresh herbs brighten the dish and elevate it to gourmet status.
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Whole Wheat Croissants: Choose whole wheat croissants for a healthier alternative with added nutty flavors. This simple swap can help cater to those seeking a more wholesome brunch option.
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Sweet and Savory: Drizzle maple syrup or honey over the top before baking for a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. It’s a wonderful way to create layers of taste.
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Add Almonds: Toss some sliced almonds on top before the last baking phase for a delightful crunch. The nutty flavor complements the buttery croissants perfectly.
For more mouthwatering inspirations, be sure to check out our scrumptious Italian Cheese Log or the hearty Baked Ham Pineapple, perfect companions for your brunch spread!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy mornings! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly and refrigerate. The croissants will soak up the custard overnight, enhancing the flavors. Before baking, allow the dish to sit out for about 30 minutes to reach room temperature, ensuring an even cook. To maintain quality, keep the topping ingredients separate until you’re ready to bake; this prevents sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, simply follow the baking instructions, and you’ll have a delightful breakfast ready with minimal morning fuss!
Expert Tips for Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake
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Resting Time: Allow the assembled bake to rest overnight in the fridge for deeper flavors that enhance the dish’s richness.
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Room Temperature: Let the bake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking throughout.
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Stale Croissants: Use slightly stale croissants for better absorption of the egg mixture, which results in a more flavorful and textured Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake.
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Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the bake towards the end of the cooking time; if it starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.
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Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like sautéed vegetables or different cheese varieties—your Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake is a canvas for creativity!
Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe FAQs
What kind of croissants should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using fresh baked croissants for the best flavor and texture. Stale croissants can also work well, as they absorb the custard mixture better, resulting in a fluffier bake.
How should I store leftovers from the bake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This preserves moisture and flavor, allowing you to enjoy the deliciousness even after cooking!
Can I freeze the Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months!
How do I reheat the frozen breakfast bake?
To reheat, thaw the bake overnight in the fridge. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. This keeps it tasty and fluffy!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven the next morning for a fresh and effortless breakfast!
Is this breakfast bake suitable for those with allergies?
Be mindful of ingredients like eggs and dairy which could be allergens. You can easily substitute whole milk with almond milk and use dairy-free alternatives for cheese if needed. Always check labels for your dietary needs!
Irresistible Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake for Breakfast Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, seasoning salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dry mustard, rosemary, and thyme until completely smooth.
- Cut the croissants in half and place them in the egg mixture, soaking for about 3 minutes on each side.
- Layer the soaked croissants in the greased baking dish, tucking slices of ham and provolone between the layers.
- Pour any remaining egg mixture evenly over the croissants and let rest for about 15 minutes.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the honey topping by mixing honey, melted butter, and your choice of mustard in a small bowl.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil, brush the honey topping over the surface, and bake uncovered for an additional 25 minutes.
- Let cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
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