Ah, Flaky Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole with Eggs and Cheese—a dish that makes my heart sing! I can still remember the first time I whipped this up during a cozy Sunday brunch at home. It was one of those lazy mornings, where you want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The delightful aroma filled my home, teasing the senses and making everyone eager to dive into the feast. There’s just something so comforting about croissants soaking up a rich egg mixture and marrying with savory ham and gooey cheese—it’s like a warm hug in a casserole dish!
This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. I love how it’s a twist on your classic baked egg dish, and instead of bread, we’re using croissants! Trust me; once you make this, it’s going to become a weekend staple in your kitchen.
What’s in Flaky Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole with Eggs and Cheese?
Let’s chat about the star ingredients in this delicious casserole. Each one plays a vital role in crafting that ultimate comfort dish!
Croissants: The flakiness of croissants creates an incredible texture, soaking up all that rich egg mixture. Go for fresh bakery croissants for the best flavor, but day-old ones work wonders too!
Cooked Ham: Delicious cooked ham brings in that savory depth. I often use leftovers from a holiday feast—or you can grab a pre-cooked ham steak and dice it!
Shredded Cheese: My go-to is a blend of cheddar and mozzarella, but feel free to use whatever you love! Swiss cheese also adds a unique twist.
Eggs: A classic binding agent, eggs give this casserole its structure and fluffiness.
Milk: Whole milk makes it rich, but I’ve substitutied with almond or oat milk before and found that it works surprisingly well!
Seasonings: A dash of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder enhances all the flavors and gives it that perfect bite.
Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and freshness as a lovely garnish. They really elevate the dish!
Is Flaky Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health! This casserole does include delicious comforts, and balance is key.
Croissants: While they are buttery and delicious, they can be high in calories and carbs, so moderation is key here.
Ham: It’s a great source of protein, but I always recommend using a low-sodium option to keep things on the healthier side.
Eggs: Eggs are nutritional powerhouses packed with protein and healthy fats, plus they contain essential vitamins and minerals.
Cheese: Rich in calcium, it’s great for bones, but watch portion sizes to keep saturated fats in check.
Because of its hearty ingredients, this casserole is perfect as an occasional treat rather than an everyday dish. Pair it with a side salad for a more balanced meal when you’re feeling a little extra!
Ingredients
– 6 large croissants, cut into halves or quarters
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced or shredded
– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish, optional)
*Serves: 6-8 people*
How to Make Flaky Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole with Eggs and Cheese?
Ready to whip this up? Let’s get cooking!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish nicely so nothing sticks!
2. In your prepared baking dish, layer those cut croissants with the diced ham and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until it’s all nice and combined.
4. Gently pour that egg mixture over the croissants, ham, and cheese, pressing down slightly to help everything soak it up.
5. Top it all off by sprinkling the remaining shredded cheese.
6. Pop it in your oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until everything is bubbly and golden brown on top.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes— because it’s super hot! Slice it up, garnish with fresh herbs if you like, and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions & Tips for the Perfect Bake
Okay, let’s chat a bit about making this even better:
– Pair this casserole with a fresh fruit salad or a light arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to balance its richness.
– If you want to spice it up, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or spinach to the layers!
– For a make-ahead option, prepare the casserole the night before and let it soak overnight in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for a hassle-free brunch!
I genuinely can’t wait for you all to experience this cozy dish. Whether you’re hosting family or just treating yourself, it’s sure to bring smiles around the table. Please give it a try and let me know how it goes! Happy cooking!
