Description
This Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake is a hearty and delicious breakfast or brunch dish featuring layers of flaky croissants, savory ham, and melted Gruyere cheese, all soaked in a rich, aromatic custard infused with fresh herbs and mustard. Baked to golden perfection, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a comforting meal any day.
Ingredients
Scale
Croissant Bake
- 10 large croissants
- 6 oz sliced ham
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh sage leaves
- 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
For Serving
- Minced chives
- Hollandaise sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Onion and Herbs: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced thyme and sage leaves, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Croissant Layers: Slice the croissants in half horizontally. In a greased baking dish, layer the bottom halves of the croissants. Top with the sliced ham and shredded Gruyere cheese. Spread the cooled onion and herb mixture evenly over the cheese. Cover with the top halves of the croissants, pressing lightly to compact.
- Mix the Custard: 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 slightly frothy.
- Soak the Bake: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the assembled croissant layers, pressing gently to ensure the croissants absorb the custard. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- Bake the Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish and place it in the oven. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the custard is set, the top is golden and slightly crisp, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Let the croissant bake cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with minced chives and, if desired, a drizzle of hollandaise sauce for an extra touch of richness and flavor.
Notes
- For best flavor, prepare the bake the night before to allow the croissants to fully soak up the custard.
- Gruyere cheese can be substituted with Swiss or Emmental cheese for a similar melting profile and taste.
- Use fresh herbs for the best aroma and flavor intensity.
- Allow the bake to rest slightly after baking; this will help it set and make it easier to cut and serve.
- Optional hollandaise sauce adds a rich, creamy complement but is not necessary.
Keywords: Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake, Breakfast Casserole, Gruyere Cheese Bake, Brunch Recipes, Savory Croissant Bake