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This buttery ham and cheese croissant recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that will have your family gathering around the table in minutes. The combination of flaky croissants, savory ham, and gooey melted cheese creates a simple yet sophisticated treat that works for any meal of the day.
I first made these croissant sandwiches when unexpected guests arrived one Sunday morning and have kept them in my regular rotation ever since. The look of delight when people bite into that perfect combination of buttery pastry and savory filling never gets old.
Ingredients
- Croissants large ones provide the perfect butter to filling ratio
- Deli ham thin slices work best for even distribution of flavor
- Swiss or cheddar cheese both melt beautifully choose based on your preference
- Dijon mustard adds a tangy depth that balances the richness
- Butter creates that irresistible golden exterior
- Garlic powder infuses the butter with savory notes without overpowering
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare
- Heat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This temperature is perfect for melting the cheese while giving the croissants a golden exterior without burning.
- Slice the Croissants
- Use a serrated knife to carefully slice each croissant horizontally keeping the back intact to create a hinge. This technique allows the croissant to hold the fillings better while maintaining its classic shape.
- Apply the Mustard
- Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside of each croissant half. The tangy mustard cuts through the richness of the butter and cheese creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
- Layer the Fillings
- Place two slices of ham followed by one slice of cheese on the bottom half of each croissant. Fold the ham if needed to fit within the croissant boundaries ensuring every bite contains the perfect ratio of ingredients.
- Prepare the Butter Mixture
- Combine melted butter and garlic powder in a small bowl mixing thoroughly. This aromatic mixture will not only add flavor but also help achieve that beautiful golden color on the exterior.
- Brush and Bake
- Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the assembled croissants then bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Watch for that moment when the cheese is completely melted and the tops turn a beautiful golden brown.
- Cool Slightly
- Allow the croissants to rest for 2 to 3 minutes after removing from the oven. This brief cooling period lets the cheese set slightly making the croissants easier to handle without burning your mouth.
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The garlic butter is truly what elevates these sandwiches from good to unforgettable. I discovered this trick when trying to use up the last of some compound butter I had made for steak and now would never make these croissants without it. The way it seeps into the flaky layers creates magic in every bite.
Make It Your Own
These ham and cheese croissants welcome customization based on your preferences and what you have available. Try adding thinly sliced tomatoes or a few spinach leaves for freshness and color. For meat lovers bacon makes an excellent addition or replacement for the ham. Vegetarians can skip the meat entirely and double up on cheese with perhaps some sautéed mushrooms for that umami flavor.
Perfect Pairings
Serve these croissants alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For breakfast pair with fresh fruit or a smoothie. They also work beautifully with a cup of tomato soup for a comforting lunch option that elevates the classic grilled cheese and soup combination to new heights.
Storage and Reheating
These croissants maintain their quality surprisingly well. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat wrap loosely in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid the microwave which will make the once crispy croissants soggy and unappetizing.
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Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare these ham and cheese croissants ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble these croissants up to 24 hours in advance. Prepare them as directed through the filling stage, but wait to apply the garlic butter until just before baking. Store assembled croissants covered in the refrigerator, then brush with garlic butter and bake when ready to serve, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- → What's the best cheese to use in these croissants?
Swiss and cheddar work beautifully, but you can customize based on preference. Gruyère offers a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with ham, while provolone provides a milder option. For extra indulgence, try using a combination of cheeses or adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to the tops before baking.
- → Can I freeze these ham and cheese croissants?
Absolutely! These croissants freeze well both before or after baking. To freeze unbaked croissants, assemble without the garlic butter, freeze individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, brush with garlic butter and bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time. Baked croissants can be frozen, then reheated in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes.
- → How can I make these croissants more substantial for a meal?
To transform these into a heartier meal, consider adding thinly sliced tomatoes, baby spinach, or arugula between the ham and cheese. You could also serve them alongside a light green salad or cup of soup. For breakfast, pair with fresh fruit or yogurt. The croissants themselves are quite filling, but these additions help create a more balanced meal.
- → What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?
If you don't have or don't enjoy Dijon mustard, there are several tasty alternatives. Try honey mustard for a sweeter profile, whole grain mustard for texture, or a thin spread of mayo mixed with herbs. For a completely different flavor direction, consider using pesto, a thin layer of cream cheese, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- → Can I use homemade or day-old croissants for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade croissants work beautifully and will elevate the final result. Day-old croissants are also excellent as the baking process will refresh them. If using slightly stale croissants, you might want to reduce the baking time by a minute or two and watch carefully to prevent over-browning. The garlic butter will help rejuvenate the texture.