Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Delight Recipe
This Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole Delight is a savory and satisfying dish perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast. Featuring buttery croissants layered with diced ham, Swiss and Parmesan cheeses, soaked in a fragrant egg mixture with thyme and garlic, baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh chives. A comforting and delicious way to start your day.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Main Ingredients
- 6 large buttery croissants, cut into quarters
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Arrange Croissants: In the greased baking dish, evenly spread out the quartered croissants, creating a base layer for the casserole.
- Add Ham and Cheese: Sprinkle the diced ham and shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the croissants to distribute flavors throughout the dish.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour and Soak: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, ham, and cheese layers. Use a spatula to gently press down to help the croissants absorb the liquid thoroughly.
- Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the casserole to add a nutty, crispy crust upon baking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes to allow the custard to set and ingredients to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is fully set.
- Cool and Garnish: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute half-and-half for the milk.
- You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it overnight; bake it covered with foil, then uncover and bake the next day.
- Use day-old croissants if possible as they soak up the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.
- Feel free to swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère or cheddar for a different taste profile.
- Add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 of casserole)
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 235 mg
Keywords: Ham croissant casserole, cheese breakfast bake, savory croissant casserole, brunch casserole recipe, breakfast bake with ham and cheese