Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

This warm, golden ham and cheese croissant sandwich has become my go-to dinner option when I need something impressive with minimal effort. The flaky pastry transforms everyday ham and cheese into something truly special, while the buttery topping takes it over the top.

I first made these for an impromptu brunch when friends stayed over unexpectedly. Now they've become our Sunday tradition, with my husband requesting them almost every weekend when we want something special but easy.

Ingredients

• Large croissants: these provide the perfect buttery, flaky base for your sandwiches
• Deli ham: opt for high quality ham with good flavor, I prefer Black Forest or honey ham for the best taste
• Swiss or cheddar cheese: Swiss offers a nutty flavor while cheddar brings sharpness, choose based on your preference
• Dijon mustard: adds tanginess that cuts through the richness, look for authentic French Dijon for best flavor
• Melted butter: creates that irresistible golden top, always use real butter never substitutes
• Garlic powder: infuses the butter topping with subtle savory notes
• Poppy seeds: optional but add wonderful texture and visual appeal to the finished croissants

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the croissants. This temperature is perfect for warming the sandwiches through while crisping the exterior without burning. Position your oven rack in the middle position for even heat distribution.

Prepare the Croissants:

Slice each croissant horizontally using a serrated knife with a gentle sawing motion. Try to keep the halves even so your fillings stay in place. For especially large croissants, you might need to trim a bit from the middle to create a flatter surface for your fillings to rest on.

Add Mustard:

Spread approximately one teaspoon of Dijon mustard on the inside of each croissant half. Focus mainly on the bottom half to prevent sogginess in the top. The mustard not only adds flavor but creates a moisture barrier between the croissant and fillings.

Layer Ham and Cheese:

Place two slices of ham folded neatly on the bottom half of each croissant. The folding creates air pockets that help melt the cheese evenly. Top with a slice of cheese, tearing it if necessary to fit the shape of the croissant properly.

Create Butter Topping:

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with garlic powder and poppy seeds if using. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the seasonings. This flavored butter will create an irresistible golden exterior.

Assemble and Brush:

Close the croissants by placing the top halves over the fillings. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops with the seasoned butter mixture, ensuring you get into all the crevices of the croissant. This creates flavor in every bite.

Bake to Perfection:

Arrange the prepared croissants on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving at least an inch between them for air circulation. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the croissants are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

My favorite version of this recipe includes adding a thin slice of ripe tomato and fresh basil in the summer months. It reminds me of picnics in France where my grandmother first introduced me to upgraded croissant sandwiches. The combination of warm, crispy pastry with melty cheese is simply irresistible.

Making Ahead and Storage

These croissants are perfect for meal prep or entertaining. To prepare ahead, simply assemble the sandwiches without the butter topping, wrap individually in foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, brush with the butter mixture and bake as directed, adding about 3-5 minutes to the baking time since they'll be cold from the refrigerator. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Creative Variations

While ham and cheese is classic, these baked croissants welcome endless variations. Try turkey and havarti with cranberry sauce for a holiday twist. Vegetarian options work beautifully with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and gruyere cheese. For breakfast croissants, add scrambled eggs and bacon in place of ham. My family loves them with prosciutto, brie, and a touch of fig jam for special occasions. The technique remains the same regardless of fillings.

Serving Suggestions

These golden croissants pair wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit and yogurt for a complete meal. When serving as dinner, a light tomato soup makes the perfect accompaniment for dipping. For entertaining, cut filled croissants diagonally after baking and arrange on a platter with cornichons, grainy mustard, and sliced apples for an elegant presentation that guests can help themselves to.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Swiss or cheddar with options like provolone, mozzarella, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

→ How long should I bake the croissants?

Bake the croissants at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the croissants, store them in the fridge, and bake them just before serving for freshness.

→ Can I skip the Dijon mustard?

Absolutely. If you’re not a fan of Dijon mustard, you can either skip it or replace it with mayonnaise or honey mustard for a milder taste.

→ What can I serve with these baked croissants?

These croissants pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of creamy tomato soup.

→ Are poppy seeds necessary?

No, poppy seeds are optional. They add texture and a slightly nutty taste but can be omitted without affecting the overall dish.