If you are looking for a quick, flavorful treat that feels like a special occasion in every bite, this Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine golden, flaky croissants stuffed with savory ham, melted munster cheese, and a tangy mayo-Dijon spread that elevates the whole experience. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack, these croissants deliver a beautiful balance of textures and tastes that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Let me take you through how to make these irresistible gems in the comfort of your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of straightforward ingredients come together to create a rich and delightful flavor profile. Each component plays a crucial part in the final taste and mouthfeel, from the buttery croissants to the smooth cheese and savory ham.
- 8 large croissants: Choose fresh or day-old croissants for flaky, buttery layers.
- 24 ounces (1 ½ pounds) deli ham: Go for good-quality, thinly sliced ham for tender, flavorful bites.
- 8 slices munster cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, giving a creamy texture and mild tang.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise: Provides a rich and moist base for the Dijon mustard spread.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a zesty kick helping to balance the richness of the ham and cheese.
How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by setting your oven to 350ºF so it’s ready for the croissants. This temperature is perfect for warming the sandwich inside while giving the croissants a beautifully crisp outer layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Tangy Spread
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined. This simple spread is a game changer, bringing moisture and a touch of tang that cuts through the richness of ham and cheese perfectly.
Step 3: Slice Your Croissants
Carefully slice each croissant in half horizontally. This gives you a perfect canvas to layer your fillings and ensures every bite is balanced with crust, tender crumb, and filling.
Step 4: Add Ham and Cheese
Arrange the deli ham evenly over the bottom half of each croissant, creating an even layer of savory goodness. Then, top each with a slice of munster cheese, which will melt and bind the sandwich deliciously.
Step 5: Spread the Mayo-Mustard and Assemble
Spread the mayo and Dijon mixture on the inside of the top croissant halves. This not only adds flavor but helps keep the sandwich moist while baking. Place the top halves onto the bottom halves to complete your sandwiches.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled croissants on a baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the munster cheese is luxuriously melted and the croissants turn golden brown and toasted. Keep an eye so they don’t over-brown!
How to Serve Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chives or parsley sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness that brighten the warm, rich flavors of this sandwich. You could also add a few thin slices of pickles for an extra tangy crunch.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with light sides. Consider a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette or some fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. For something heartier, a bowl of tomato soup is an absolute classic that complements the baked croissants beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting these baked ham and cheese croissants into smaller triangles for an elegant finger food option at brunch or parties. Serve on a wooden board with assorted mustards, pickles, and fresh veggies to create a colorful and inviting spread everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover croissants, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days, keeping most of their delicious flavor and texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze. This way, your baked ham and cheese croissants recipe treats can be enjoyed anytime for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated 350ºF oven for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is melting again. Avoid microwaving if possible, because that can make the croissants soggy instead of crisp.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese besides munster?
Absolutely! Swiss, cheddar, or provolone are all excellent melting cheeses and can be substituted to suit your taste preferences without compromising on flavor or texture.
Is it better to use fresh or day-old croissants for this recipe?
Day-old croissants actually work surprisingly well because they hold up better during baking and toast nicely, but fresh croissants will still make a delicious sandwich with a softer texture.
Can I add veggies to the sandwich?
Yes! Thin slices of tomato, spinach leaves, or even sautéed mushrooms can add wonderful flavors and extra nutrition to the croissants without overpowering the classic combination.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply skip the ham and add extra cheese or layer with grilled veggies like zucchini and bell peppers. A flavorful mustard spread will keep the sandwich exciting and tasty.
Can I prepare these sandwiches in advance?
You can assemble the sandwiches up to a day ahead and keep them refrigerated, then bake them fresh just before serving to get that perfect melted and toasted finish.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the warm, flaky goodness of a freshly baked ham and cheese croissant that melts in your mouth and satisfies every craving. This Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe is easy, comforting, and so versatile for any time of day. I truly hope you try it soon and discover just how special this simple combination of ingredients can taste when baked to perfection!
Print
Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these warm and flaky baked ham and cheese croissants, layered with savory deli ham, melted Munster cheese, and a tangy mayo-Dijon mustard spread. Perfect for a comforting breakfast or a satisfying lunch, this easy-to-make recipe transforms ordinary croissants into a deliciously gooey sandwich treat.
Ingredients
Croissants
- 8 large croissants
Filling
- 24 ounces (1 ½ pounds) deli ham
- 8 slices Munster cheese
Spread
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF to prepare for baking the croissant sandwiches.
- Mix Spread: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard thoroughly to create a flavorful spread.
- Slice Croissants: Carefully cut each large croissant in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom piece for each sandwich.
- Assemble Bottom Layer: Evenly distribute the deli ham slices over the bottom halves of all the croissants, then place one slice of Munster cheese on top of the ham in each croissant.
- Apply Spread and Top: Spread the mayo-mustard mixture evenly on the inside of the top halves of the croissants, then place these tops over the ham and cheese layers to complete the sandwich.
- Bake Croissants: Arrange all assembled croissant sandwiches on a baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the croissants are toasted and warmed to your liking.
Notes
- You can substitute Munster cheese with Swiss or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- For added texture, add a layer of thinly sliced pickles or caramelized onions before topping with the mayo-mustard spread.
- Use fresh croissants for best results; day-old croissants may not toast as perfectly.
- To make this recipe lower in fat, use low-fat mayonnaise and lean ham.
- Serve warm immediately after baking for the best taste and melted cheese experience.
