This Ham & Cheese Croissant Casserole is one of those easy, cozy meals that tastes like something you’d get at a fancy brunch spot—but it’s made right in your own kitchen.
Flaky croissants, smoky ham, melty cheese, and a creamy egg custard all baked together into one bubbly, golden dish. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
No stress, no fuss, and the flavor is next-level good.
Why I Love This Recipe
This casserole has been my go-to for lazy Sunday mornings or when I have family coming over and don’t want to stand over a stove. I first made it after a holiday when we had leftover croissants and ham—since then, it’s been on repeat. You don’t need to prep much, and you can even make it the night before!
- Buttery croissants make it extra rich and flaky
- Smoky ham gives it that savory kick
- Melty cheese ties it all together
- Can be made ahead and baked fresh
- Tastes even better the next day
Servings: 6
Total Time: 45 minutes (10 min prep + 35 min bake)
What You’ll Need
- 4 large butter croissants (day-old is best)
- 1½ cups diced cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 5 large eggs
- 1¾ cups whole milk
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional for garnish)
- Butter or nonstick spray for greasing
Pro Tips
- Use day-old croissants: They soak up the custard better without turning mushy.
- Shred your own cheese: It melts better than pre-shredded and adds great texture.
- Use good-quality ham: Leftover baked ham or deli-style works, just dice it up.
- Let it sit before baking: Even 10 minutes of soaking helps the croissants absorb the custard.
- Don’t skip greasing: A little butter or spray keeps the casserole from sticking.
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13 baking dish (or similar size)
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Butter or nonstick spray
Substitutions and Variations
- Croissants → Use brioche or challah if you don’t have croissants
- Ham → Swap with cooked bacon or turkey
- Cheddar/Mozzarella → Try Swiss, gouda, or pepper jack for extra flavor
- Milk → Use any milk or even half-and-half
- Add-ins → Sautéed onions, spinach, or bell peppers can be stirred in
Make Ahead Tips
Assemble the entire casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let it sit on the counter while the oven preheats, then bake as usual.
How to Make Ham & Cheese Croissant Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish and Tear the Croissants
Grease a 9×13 baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Tear 4 large croissants into big chunks and scatter evenly in the dish.
Step 2: Add Ham and Cheese
Sprinkle 1½ cups diced cooked ham evenly over the croissants. Then top with 1 cup shredded cheddar and 1 cup shredded mozzarella.
Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk 5 large eggs, 1¾ cups whole milk, ¼ cup heavy cream, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp garlic powder until smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Pour the Custard
Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, ham, and cheese in the baking dish. Lightly press down the croissants to help them soak.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered in a preheated 350°F oven for 35–40 minutes until puffed and golden, and the center is set.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives, slice into squares, and serve warm.
Leftovers & Storage
Let the casserole cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven.
Macros (Per Serving)
Calories: 410
Protein: 21g
Carbs: 20g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 4g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Croissants are rich with butter and air pockets, making them ideal for soaking up a custard without getting soggy. The eggs set into a soft, savory custard while the ham and cheese add protein, fat, and salt—so every bite is balanced. Baking at 350°F allows the top to crisp while the center cooks through gently.
Common Mistakes
- Using fresh croissants: They get mushy—use day-old or slightly stale.
- Overbaking: If the top browns too fast, cover loosely with foil so the middle can cook through.
- Underseasoning: The custard needs that salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste like more than eggs.
What to Serve With
- Fresh fruit salad or berries
- Mixed greens with vinaigrette
- Crispy hash browns
- A side of hot sauce or Dijon mustard
FAQ
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Freeze the unbaked or baked casserole tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
Can I use a different bread?
Yep. Brioche or even French bread works. Just keep the measurements close.
Can I double it?
Totally. Use two baking dishes and bake side-by-side.
Final Thoughts
This Ham & Cheese Croissant Casserole is the kind of recipe you make once and then crave again and again. It’s rich, comforting, and just plain delicious. Whether you serve it for brunch or dinner, it’s sure to impress—without needing much effort. Try it soon, and don’t forget to drop a comment and let me know how it turned out or if you have any questions!