Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe
If you’re like me and love a cozy brunch that feels a bit special without all the hassle, this Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s warm, comforting, and perfectly cheesy, with that flaky croissant base that just soaks up all the custardy goodness. Trust me, it’s the kind of dish that invites you to slow down, linger at the table, and savor every bite.
Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, feeding a crowd for a holiday morning, or just craving something deliciously satisfying, this Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe fits the bill beautifully. Plus, it’s forgiving enough to make ahead and pop in the oven when you’re ready. I love how the fresh herbs add unexpected brightness and the double mustard touch gives it a subtle zing that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the buttery croissants to the fresh herbs, the balance is just right. When shopping, look for good-quality ham and fresh, vibrant herbs to make your bake really shine.
- Croissants: I use large, day-old croissants for the best texture—they soak up the custard without turning mushy.
- Sliced ham: Go for a flavorful but not too salty ham; honey ham works beautifully here.
- Gruyere cheese: This cheese melts wonderfully and adds a nutty richness that’s hard to beat.
- Unsalted butter: For sautéing the onion, so you control the salt level perfectly.
- Yellow onion: Diced small, it cooks until sweet and tender—toasty and mellow in the bake.
- Fresh thyme leaves: These add an earthy herbal note I love in this dish.
- Fresh sage leaves: Minced finely, sage brings a savory warmth that pairs beautifully with ham.
- Half and half: Creates the creamy custard base that soaks into the croissants.
- Eggs: They bind everything together and give the bake its custardy texture.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle tang that lifts the flavors without overpowering.
- Whole grain mustard: Provides texture and a mild punch for complexity.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Season generously but taste as you go.
- Freshly grated nutmeg: Just a pinch adds a hint of warmth and depth.
- Minced chives: For serving, a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor.
- Hollandaise sauce (optional): If you want to get fancy, drizzle this on top before serving—it’s my secret brunch indulgence.
Variations
One of my favorite things about the Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. I often swap out cheeses or adjust herbs depending on what’s in my fridge. Don’t be afraid to experiment—you might discover a new favorite twist.
- Cheese Swap: I’ve tried sharp cheddar or fontina instead of gruyere when I wanted a slightly different flavor profile, and it works wonderfully.
- Meat-free version: Leave out the ham and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. A great way to serve vegetarian guests.
- Herb variations: Rosemary or tarragon can replace or complement the thyme and sage for unique flavor notes.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a subtle heat—it balances the richness beautifully.
How to Make Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions with Herbs
Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced yellow onion and sauté gently until it turns golden and soft—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Add the fresh thyme and sage in the last minute of cooking to let their fragrances bloom without burning. This step is key for building depth in your bake, so don’t rush it!
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the half and half, eggs, dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg. Make sure your eggs are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. This custard is what keeps everything wonderfully moist and rich, so don’t skip the nutmeg—it adds a subtle warmth that makes a difference.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
Tear the croissants into bite-sized pieces and layer half of them in a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle half of the ham, sautéed onion mixture, and shredded gruyere evenly over the croissants. Repeat the layers with the remaining croissants, ham, onions, and cheese. Then pour your custard mixture slowly over everything, pressing gently so the croissants soak up the custard well. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes; I like to cover and refrigerate mine for a few hours or even overnight—this step makes all the difference for texture.
Step 4: Bake until Golden and Puffy
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the croissant bake for around 40-45 minutes. You’re looking for the custard to be set and the top to have a beautiful golden-brown color. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving; this helps everything firm up just right and makes slicing easier.
How to Serve Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe
Garnishes
I love sprinkling minced fresh chives on top for a pop of color and a mild oniony crunch that cuts through the rich custard. Sometimes, if I’m feeling indulgent, I serve it with a drizzle of warm hollandaise sauce—it adds a luxuriously creamy layer that just takes it over the top.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs wonderfully with something light and fresh. I often serve it alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of fresh berries. For a heartier brunch spread, add some roasted asparagus or crispy breakfast potatoes on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve arranged individual portions in ramekins for a charming presentation that feels extra personal. You can also sprinkle toasted nuts like pecans on top after baking for a bit of crunch. Pairing it with a colorful fruit compote or a bright chutney adds a lovely contrast that wows guests every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually cover leftover slices tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They keep well for up to 3 days, but honestly, around here, that rarely happens because it’s so tasty. Just make sure you cool the bake completely before storing to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
Freezing this Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe works great if you wrap portions individually in foil and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. I’ve found it freezes well for up to 1 month. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at about 325°F (160°C) until warmed through—usually around 15-20 minutes. This helps keep the exterior slightly crisp while warming the custard gently. Microwaving works in a pinch, but I prefer the oven method for better texture.
FAQs
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Can I use day-old bread instead of croissants for this bake?
Absolutely! While croissants give you that flaky, buttery texture that’s hard to beat, day-old brioche or another rich bread can also work well. Just make sure to cut it into chunks and let it soak in the custard thoroughly for the best results.
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Is it necessary to let the bake sit before baking?
Letting the assembled bake sit for at least 20 minutes allows the croissants to fully absorb the custard, creating a more cohesive and tender texture. If you’re short on time, you can bake immediately, but the resting period really improves the final dish.
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Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Since traditional croissants contain gluten, you’d need to substitute with gluten-free croissants or a similar gluten-free pastry. Just be aware that textures may vary, and you might want to adjust soaking time accordingly.
Final Thoughts
I honestly find the Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe to be one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s indulgent but approachable, perfect for busy mornings when you want something impressive without stressing. Making it has become a special tradition in my kitchen whenever I have friends over, and I can’t recommend it enough for your next brunch or relaxed weekend breakfast. Give it a try—you might just find it’s the recipe you keep coming back to, just like I do!
Print
Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes plus 1 hour soaking time
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast / Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
Description
This Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake is a decadent breakfast or brunch dish featuring layers of flaky croissants, savory ham, and melted Gruyere cheese soaked in a rich custard infused with fresh herbs and Dijon mustard. Baked until golden and bubbly, it’s the perfect make-ahead meal to impress your guests or treat your family on a leisurely morning.
Ingredients
Croissant and Cheese Layer
- 10 large croissants
- 6 oz sliced ham
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
Herbs and Aromatics
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh sage leaves
Custard Mixture
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 1/2 cups half and half
- 6 eggs
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
Garnishes
- Minced chives, for serving
- Hollandaise sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the croissants and ham: Slice the croissants in half horizontally and roughly tear them into bite-sized pieces. Chop the sliced ham into similar bite-sized chunks for easy layering.
- Sauté the aromatics and herbs: In a skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced thyme and sage leaves and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Make the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg until well combined and smooth.
- Assemble the bake: Grease a large baking dish. Layer half of the croissant pieces evenly on the bottom. Top with half of the ham, then sprinkle with half of the shredded Gruyere cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining croissants, ham, and cheese. Evenly distribute the sautéed onion and herb mixture over the top.
- Pour custard over the bake: Slowly pour the egg and half-and-half custard mixture over the layered croissants, ham, cheese, and herbs, pressing down gently with a spatula to help absorb the custard throughout the layers.
- Let it soak: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the croissants to soak up the custard thoroughly.
- Bake the dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the croissant bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, the custard is set, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Rest and garnish: Let the bake rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set further. Sprinkle with freshly minced chives and serve with hollandaise sauce on the side for an optional luxurious touch.
Notes
- This recipe can be prepared a day ahead by assembling and refrigerating overnight for convenience and better custard absorption.
- Gruyere cheese can be substituted with Swiss or Emmental cheese if desired.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Use day-old croissants for best texture as they absorb the custard more effectively without becoming too mushy.
- Adjust the herbs according to your preference; rosemary or parsley can also complement the flavors.
- Hollandaise sauce is optional but adds a rich, creamy finish that pairs well with the savory bake.
Keywords: ham and cheese croissant bake, savory breakfast casserole, brunch recipe with ham, baked croissant casserole, Gruyere cheese bake
