Buttery croissants, smoky ham, and gooey cheese are baked together in this ultimate breakfast casserole, inspired by the French classic Croque Monsieur. It’s an easy, make-ahead dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or festive holiday mornings. Light, fluffy, and slightly sweet with a dusting of powdered sugar, this casserole is a family favorite that’s both elegant and comforting.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 6–8 medium-sized croissants

• 4 large eggs

• 1 cup half and half or whole milk

• 1 ½ tablespoons Dijon mustard

• Pinch of salt

• 8 ounces deli or leftover ham (about 6 thin slices)

• 6 ounces shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

1. Lightly coat a 9×6 deep baking dish (or 9×11 if needed) with cooking spray.

2. Tear croissants in half and arrange them in the prepared pan.

3. Cut ham into thirds and tuck the pieces around the croissants.

4. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the croissants and ham.

5. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt.

6. Pour the egg mixture over the croissants, ensuring all pieces are covered.

7. Cover with foil and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

9. Place the covered casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes.

10. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10–15 minutes until hot, bubbly, and golden on top.

11. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes chill time)
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes (with chilling)
Servings: 6 servings

Nutrients

• Calories: 403 kcal per serving

• Total Fat: 26 g

  • Saturated Fat: 13 g

• Cholesterol: 170 mg

• Sodium: 625 mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 22 g

  • Dietary Fiber: 1 g

  • Sugars: 6 g

• Protein: 20 g

• Vitamin A: 739 IU (15% DV)

• Vitamin C: 0.4 mg

• Calcium: 255 mg (20% DV)

• Iron: 2 mg (10% DV)

Why You’ll Love Croissant Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

This casserole brings together everything people love about breakfast into one unforgettable dish. The buttery, slightly sweet flavor of croissants pairs beautifully with the smoky saltiness of ham and the nutty richness of Swiss or Gruyere cheese. It’s an easy, hands-off meal that feels sophisticated without requiring complicated techniques. Being a make-ahead recipe means you can prepare it the night before and simply bake it fresh in the morning, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining. Light, fluffy, and satisfyingly rich, Croissant Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole feels indulgent without being heavy, making it a go-to choice for many special occasions.

Flavor Profile and Texture

Each bite of this casserole delivers a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors. The croissants provide a buttery base that becomes lightly crisp on top while staying soft and custardy underneath. The ham brings a savory, smoky depth that balances the richness of the croissants, while the cheese melts into gooey, golden ribbons that stretch with every forkful. The custard, made from eggs and half-and-half or milk, adds a luscious creaminess that ties everything together without weighing it down. A final dusting of powdered sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the croissants and adds a delicate finish that makes this casserole feel both luxurious and comforting.

Health Benefits and Considerations

While Croissant Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole leans toward indulgence, it does offer a satisfying balance of macronutrients. The eggs provide a valuable source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins like B12 and D. Swiss and Gruyere cheeses are rich in calcium, crucial for strong bones and teeth. Ham contributes additional protein and essential minerals like zinc and iron. Using whole milk or half-and-half ensures a creamy custard while offering vitamin A and D. Although the dish is higher in fat and sodium, especially due to the croissants and ham, it can fit well into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Lighter versions can be created by using lower-fat cheese, reduced-sodium ham, or whole-wheat croissants.

Perfect Occasions for Croissant Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

This casserole is the perfect centerpiece for a variety of gatherings. It shines on Christmas morning, Easter brunch, or Mother’s Day breakfast, when you want something impressive but manageable. Its make-ahead convenience also makes it ideal for hosting overnight guests, allowing you to serve a delicious breakfast without rushing in the morning. It fits beautifully into baby showers, bridal brunches, or even casual weekend family meals. The combination of savory, buttery, and slightly sweet flavors appeals to a wide range of tastes, ensuring it will be a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, its attractive golden top and flaky layers make it a visually stunning dish for any table.

Customization Ideas for Croissant Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

One of the joys of this casserole is how easily it can be customized. You can swap the ham for cooked bacon, turkey, prosciutto, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed spinach or mushrooms. Change up the cheese by using sharp white cheddar, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor. Add fresh herbs like thyme, chives, or parsley to the custard for an aromatic touch. For an extra indulgent twist, drizzle a little maple syrup over the top before serving to enhance the sweet-savory contrast. If you prefer a stronger mustard flavor, a bit more Dijon can be whisked into the egg mixture for a tangy punch.

Tips for the Best Croissant Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

Choosing the right croissants is key to achieving the best texture. Slightly stale croissants work better than fresh ones, as they absorb the custard more effectively without becoming overly soggy. Tearing the croissants into smaller pieces creates more craggy edges that crisp up during baking. Make sure the egg mixture is poured evenly over the entire dish so every bite is moist and flavorful. Letting the casserole rest after baking ensures it sets properly, making it easier to slice and serve. Dust the powdered sugar just before serving to maintain its delicate appearance and to prevent it from dissolving into the casserole.

Origin and Popularity of Croissant-Based Breakfast Dishes

Croissants have long been a symbol of French baking, beloved for their rich, buttery layers and delicate texture. The Croque Monsieur, a classic French ham and cheese sandwich topped with béchamel sauce and baked until bubbly, inspired the flavor profile of this breakfast casserole. Combining croissants, ham, and cheese into a baked casserole is a more recent innovation, particularly popular in American kitchens where make-ahead breakfast bakes are prized for their convenience and ability to feed a crowd. Today, croissant breakfast casseroles are especially popular during holidays and brunch events, offering a sophisticated yet approachable dish that elevates any morning meal.

Reasons to Love Croissant Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Even More

There’s something about this casserole that feels both comforting and a little luxurious. The croissants give it a bakery-quality feel, while the simple preparation means it’s accessible even for beginner cooks. Its balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it universally appealing, satisfying guests with different flavor preferences. The fact that it can be made in advance is a huge bonus for busy hosts, and it’s equally delicious whether served piping hot from the oven or slightly cooled at a leisurely brunch. With minimal prep and maximum impact, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself turning to again and again whenever you need a breakfast or brunch showstopper.

Serving Suggestions for Croissant Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

This casserole is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it with a simple fruit salad for a fresh, juicy contrast to the rich, buttery casserole. A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness nicely if you’re serving it for brunch. Freshly brewed coffee or a sparkling mimosa is the perfect beverage pairing. For a more decadent spread, include sides like roasted breakfast potatoes or a platter of assorted pastries and fresh bread. No matter what you serve alongside it, this casserole is sure to steal the show with its irresistible flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Croissant Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole offers everything you could want in a breakfast dish—richness, texture, flavor, and visual appeal. With its layers of buttery croissants, savory ham, gooey cheese, and creamy custard, finished with a sweet dusting of powdered sugar, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and satisfying. It’s an elegant yet effortless dish that elevates everyday mornings and adds sparkle to special occasions. Easy to customize, simple to prepare in advance, and universally adored, this casserole is a must-have recipe for anyone who loves the combination of French elegance and hearty comfort. Once you serve it, it’s sure to become a treasured favorite in your home.