Croissant Bake with Deli Meats

This croissant bake is all about those special weekend mornings when you need something comforting yet easy. Perfect for when you want to impress loved ones or just treat yourself, it layers flaky bakery croissants with creamy eggs, savory deli meats, melted cheeses, and a sweet herbed butter finish. It comes together with very little prep and always disappears fast from the table.

I first tried this as a “clean out the fridge” recipe after a holiday. Now my family asks for it every time we have extra croissants. The honey herb butter on top makes it unforgettable.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Croissants: Choose buttery bakery croissants for flakiness and flavor. Preferably day-old croissants hold up well when baked.
• Deli meat: Ham, prosciutto, turkey breast or salami bring depth and lots of savory notes. Choose your favorites or mix for variety. Always buy freshly sliced if possible.
• Eggs: Large and fresh eggs make the richest custard. Check for bright yolks.
• Heavy cream or milk: Cream gives more richness, milk lightens things up. Use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
• Salt and garlic salt: These add foundational seasoning. Garlic salt brings an extra layer of flavor.
• Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is best for gentle heat.
• Fresh rosemary: Adds vibrant herby aroma. Use the freshest sprigs you can find or substitute with another soft herb.
• Swiss cheese and mozzarella: Swiss melts creamy and tangy, mozzarella stretches beautifully. Opt for full-fat blocks and slice or shred yourself for best melting.
• Butter: Use high-quality unsalted for the richest taste.
• Honey: Floral local honey gives a touch of sweetness balancing the savory. Don’t skip it.
• Fresh herbs: Rosemary and thyme at the end echo the filling and give freshness.

How to Make It

Prep the Oven and Dish:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius ahead of time so it is hot by the time you finish prepping. Spray your baking dish lightly with oil or smear with a bit of butter to prevent sticking

Slice and Layer Croissants:

Cut each croissant into three even pieces. Spread them out in your prepared dish letting the pieces nestle together but not completely overlapping so the custard can soak in

Make the Egg Custard:

In a mixing bowl whisk eggs with cream, salt, garlic salt, pepper and chopped rosemary. Whisk vigorously until completely combined for a smooth base. The fresher the herbs the more fragrant your bake

Dunk and Layer:

Take each croissant piece and dunk it fully in the egg mixture, letting it soak for a few seconds. Place the saturated pieces back into the dish arranging them loosely for space between each

Add Savory Fillings:

Tuck slices of deli meat and cheese between croissant pieces aiming for even distribution so every bite has both. Tear or fold the deli meats for best coverage and alternate meats and cheeses for color and texture

Prepare and Drizzle Honey Butter:

Melt the butter and stir in the honey along with extra chopped fresh rosemary and thyme. Slowly pour or drizzle this mixture over the top of the dish letting it coat each croissant peak

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the croissants are puffed and golden brown and the cheese has melted completely. Keep an eye on the edges so they do not overbrown

One of my favorite things about this bake is the way the honey and butter melt together into the croissants. My kids always want the corner pieces because they get extra crispy. Making this dish has become our cozy weekend ritual.

Flavor Boosters

Switch up the deli meats with rotisserie chicken or leftover roast beef for a heartier twist. If you prefer a vegetarian version use sautéed mushrooms and spinach as a filling. Any melty cheese like cheddar, Gruyere or provolone can replace Swiss or mozzarella.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad to balance out the richness or add a fruit salad for a bright touch. For brunches, set out a simple hot sauce or mustard for drizzling. It also pairs perfectly with strong coffee or a mimosa.

Creative Twists

Bake uncovered so the croissants develop crisp peaks while the underneath stays custardy. Use day-old croissants if possible because they hold their structure and flavor beautifully. Double the recipe for a crowd and bake in a larger casserole dish.

Try this croissant bake once and it might become your new go-to for weekends or special occasions. The comforting flavors and easy assembly never let you down.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use different types of deli meat?

Yes, you can mix and match ham, prosciutto, turkey, or salami based on your preference or what's on hand.

→ How can I tell when the bake is done?

The bake is ready when the croissants are golden brown and the cheese has fully melted and bubbled around the edges.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You may assemble the dish the night before, keep it refrigerated, and bake it just before serving for best results.

→ What other cheeses work in this bake?

Gruyère, cheddar, or provolone can be used in place of or alongside Swiss and mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

→ Is it possible to make this without eggs?

Eggs are essential for binding and texture, but a vegan egg substitute could be tried for dietary needs, though results may vary.