This recipe for Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake is an excellent way to use up leftover ham and croissants although you can use any crusty bread or brioche. The Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake can be eaten hot or cold. Instead of ham, try smoked salmon or thinly sliced roast turkey.
Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake
Serves 6
Ingredients:
50g unsalted butter, chopped
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 leek, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
200g crème fraîche
1 cup single cream
1 cup milk
½ cup grated Parmesan, plus ¼ cup to serve
4 eggs
6 croissants, cut into 2cm thick slices crossways
¼ cup Dijon mustard
250g leftover Christmas ham, or any thinly sliced ham
6 slices vintage Cheddar, halved
Chopped chives, to serve
Method:
Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan forced). Combine butter, oil, leek and garlic in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally or until leek is very soft and starting to caramelise. Set aside to cool slightly.
Place in a blender with crème fraîche, cream, milk and Parmesan and blend until smooth. Add eggs and blend until smooth.
Meanwhile, lightly grease a 2.5 litre ovenproof dish. Spread mustard on croissant slices and fill with ham and Cheddar cheese to create mini sandwiches. Arrange in the ovenproof dish.
Pour over the leek egg mixture. Cover with foil, place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for a further 20 minutes, or until croissants are golden and egg mixture is set. Serve sprinkled with Parmesan and chives.
Smart Tip:
This savoury version of bread and butter pudding is a great way to use up unused croissants but you can use any crusty bread or brioche. It can be eaten hot or cold. Instead of ham, try smoked salmon or thinly sliced roast turkey.
