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Make-Ahead Ham and Cheese Croissant Breakfast Casserole

A close-up of a golden-brown square slice of Croissant Breakfast Casserole with melted cheese and ham.
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This is a savory, make-ahead croissant breakfast casserole using ham and cheese. It uses flaky croissants soaked in a rich egg custard, perfect for feeding a crowd at brunch or on a holiday morning.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 large croissants, day-old is best
  • 1 pound cooked ham, diced
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 1/2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Tear the croissants into bite-sized pieces and spread them evenly in the prepared dish.
  2. Scatter the diced ham and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese over the croissants.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, dry mustard, salt, and pepper until fully combined. This is your custard base.
  4. Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant and ham layers in the baking dish. Gently press down on the croissants to help them absorb the liquid.
  5. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is key for the best texture.
  6. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the plastic wrap.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set (no liquid remains when tested with a knife).
  9. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Using day-old croissants prevents them from becoming too soggy when they soak up the custard.
  • If you are short on time, you can skip the overnight soak, but let the casserole sit for 30 minutes at room temperature before baking.
  • This recipe works well with leftover holiday ham.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenslang.com/croissant-breakfast-casserole-make-ahead-ham-cheese/