Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants have become a weekend staple in our home, and honestly, I can’t imagine our mornings without them now. There’s something so incredibly comforting and satisfying about biting into a warm, flaky croissant oozing with melted cheese and savory ham. It’s a simple recipe, yes, but the magic lies in the perfect combination of textures and flavors. My kids absolutely devour them, and even my usually picky husband can’t resist sneaking a second (or third!). Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a quick and easy weeknight dinner, these baked croissants are always a hit. They’re versatile, adaptable, and utterly delicious – truly a recipe that brings smiles to faces every time.

Ingredients

• 6 Large Croissants: Pre-made croissants are the key to speed and ease. Choose buttery, flaky croissants for the best texture.
• 6 Slices of Cooked Ham: Use your favorite type of ham. Black Forest ham, honey ham, or even smoked ham all work wonderfully, adding a savory depth.
• 6 Slices of Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its sharp flavor and melting ability. However, Swiss, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or provolone are also excellent options, offering different flavor profiles.
• 2 Tablespoons Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy kick that complements the ham and cheese. You can also use honey mustard for a sweeter note.
• 2 Tablespoons Mayonnaise: Provides moisture and richness, helping the croissants become beautifully golden brown and slightly crisp.
• 1 Tablespoon Butter, Melted (Optional): Brushing the croissants with melted butter before baking enhances their golden color and adds extra buttery flavor.
• Sesame Seeds or Poppy Seeds (Optional): For a decorative touch and added texture, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top before baking.
• Fresh Parsley, Chopped (Optional): For garnish and a fresh, herbaceous note after baking.

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Prepare the Croissants: Gently slice each croissant horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. You want to create a pocket to fill, but keep the two halves hinged together.
3. Spread with Mustard and Mayonnaise: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise until well combined. Spread a thin layer of this mixture on the inside of both the top and bottom halves of each croissant. This adds flavor and helps to prevent the croissants from drying out.
4. Assemble the Croissants: Place a slice of cheese on the bottom half of each croissant, followed by a slice of ham. Make sure the ham and cheese are tucked neatly inside the croissant pocket.
5. Top with Cheese (Optional): For extra cheesy goodness, you can add another half slice of cheese on top of the ham, or even sprinkle some shredded cheese over the ham before closing the croissant.
6. Brush with Butter (Optional): If desired, brush the tops of the croissants with melted butter. This will give them a beautiful golden brown color and enhance their buttery flavor.
7. Sprinkle with Seeds (Optional): If using, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds over the tops of the buttered croissants.
8. Bake the Croissants: Arrange the assembled croissants on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the filling is heated through. Keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary, and you want to ensure they don’t burn.
9. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the croissants from the baking sheet and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while warm and the cheese is melty and delicious.

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving – 1 Baked Ham and Cheese Croissant, approximate values, will vary based on specific ingredients used)

• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal
• Fat: 25-35g

Note: These values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients used, as well as the size of the croissants.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 27-30 minutes

This recipe is wonderfully quick and easy, perfect for a fast breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner when you need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are incredibly versatile and can be served in a multitude of ways, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• Breakfast or Brunch Star:
  • Alongside Fresh Fruit: Pair the savory croissants with a vibrant fruit salad or a simple bowl of fresh berries. The sweetness of the fruit beautifully complements the richness of the ham and cheese.
  • With Yogurt and Granola: For a more substantial brunch, serve alongside a bowl of creamy yogurt topped with crunchy granola.
  • Eggs Your Way: Scrambled eggs, fried eggs, or a fluffy omelet make a classic and satisfying breakfast pairing.
  • Breakfast Potatoes: Crispy breakfast potatoes or hash browns add a hearty element to the meal.
• Lunchtime Delight:
  • Side Salad Sensation: A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is the perfect counterpoint to the rich croissants. Consider adding tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
  • Soup Companion: Pair with a comforting bowl of tomato soup, creamy potato soup, or a hearty vegetable soup for a satisfying lunch.
  • Pickle Perfection: Serve with dill pickles, cornichons, or pickled onions for a tangy and crunchy contrast.
  • Chips and Dip: For a more casual lunch, serve with your favorite potato chips and a creamy dip like French onion dip or ranch dip.
• Easy Dinner Option:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers provide a healthy and flavorful side dish.
  • Simple Salad: A Caesar salad or a simple mixed greens salad with a light dressing complements the richness of the croissants.
  • Mac and Cheese: For a truly indulgent meal, serve alongside creamy macaroni and cheese.
  • Coleslaw or Potato Salad: Classic picnic sides like coleslaw or potato salad are also great companions for these baked croissants.
• Snack or Appetizer:
  • Mini Croissant Bites: Use mini croissants to create bite-sized versions for parties or snacks.
  • Cut into Halves or Quarters: For easy sharing as an appetizer, cut the baked croissants into halves or quarters and arrange them on a platter.
  • Dipping Sauces: Offer a selection of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli for guests to customize their bites.

No matter how you choose to serve them, Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are always a crowd-pleaser. Their flaky texture, savory filling, and warm, comforting flavors make them a welcome addition to any meal or gathering.

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

To ensure your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are absolutely perfect every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

1. Choose Quality Croissants: The foundation of this recipe is the croissant itself. Opt for fresh, bakery-style croissants or high-quality store-bought ones. Pre-made puff pastry can be used in a pinch, but genuine croissants will provide the best flaky texture and buttery flavor. Avoid overly dry or stale croissants.
2. Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to load up the croissants with filling, resist the urge to overstuff them. Too much filling can make the croissants soggy and prevent them from baking evenly. A slice of ham and cheese per croissant is usually just right.
3. Cheese Placement Matters: Place the cheese directly on the croissant bread before adding the ham. This creates a barrier that prevents the ham’s moisture from making the croissant bottom soggy. The cheese will also melt beautifully and create a gooey base for the ham.
4. Mustard and Mayo Balance: The Dijon mustard and mayonnaise mixture adds a wonderful tang and moisture. Adjust the ratio to your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less mustard or substitute with honey mustard. For a richer flavor, use full-fat mayonnaise.
5. Baking Time is Key: Keep a close eye on the croissants while they bake. Baking time can vary depending on your oven and the type of croissants used. You want them to be golden brown and heated through, but not overly browned or dry. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes.
6. Preventing Soggy Bottoms: To further prevent soggy bottoms, you can place the croissants on a wire rack set inside the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate underneath and ensures even baking and crispier bottoms.
7. Make-Ahead Options: You can assemble the croissants ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for meal prepping or when you’re expecting guests. Simply cover the assembled croissants tightly with plastic wrap and bake as directed when ready. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
8. Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Try different types of cheese like Gruyere, Swiss, or pepper jack. Add other deli meats like turkey or salami. Include vegetables like sliced tomatoes, spinach, or roasted red peppers. You can also add a sprinkle of herbs like dried oregano or thyme to the mustard-mayo mixture for extra flavor.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating perfect Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants that are flaky, flavorful, and utterly irresistible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Q1: Can I use frozen croissants for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen croissants, but you’ll need to thaw them completely before assembling and baking. Follow the thawing instructions on the package. Ensure they are fully thawed and slightly pliable before slicing and filling to prevent them from cracking. Baking time might need to be slightly adjusted depending on the type of frozen croissants used; keep an eye on them.

Q2: Can I make these croissants ahead of time and reheat them?

A: While freshly baked croissants are always best, you can bake them ahead of time and reheat them gently. To reheat, wrap them loosely in foil and warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Reheating might slightly affect the flakiness of the croissant, but they will still be delicious. Alternatively, you can assemble them ahead and bake later for the freshest results.

Q3: What are some cheese alternatives if I don’t have cheddar?

A: Many cheeses work wonderfully in Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants! Great alternatives to cheddar include:

• Swiss Cheese: Offers a mild, nutty flavor and melts beautifully.
• Gruyere: A slightly more complex and nutty flavor than Swiss, also excellent for melting.
• Provolone: A mild and slightly tangy cheese that melts well.
• Monterey Jack: A mild, buttery cheese that is a great all-around melter.
• Pepper Jack: For a spicy kick, pepper jack adds heat and flavor.
• Mozzarella: While milder in flavor, mozzarella provides a lovely gooey melt.

Choose your favorite melting cheese or a combination for a unique flavor profile.

Q4: Can I add vegetables to these croissants?

A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to customize your croissants and add extra nutrients. Some delicious vegetable additions include:

• Sliced Tomatoes: Add a slice of fresh tomato for moisture and acidity.
• Baby Spinach: Tuck in a handful of baby spinach for added greens.
• Roasted Red Peppers: Roasted red peppers bring a sweet and smoky flavor.
• Caramelized Onions: Caramelized onions add sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Avocado (added after baking): Slices of fresh avocado can be added after baking for creaminess and healthy fats.

Make sure to not overfill the croissants if adding vegetables.

Q5: Can I make these croissants vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can easily make these croissants vegetarian! Simply omit the ham and use vegetarian-friendly fillings. Consider these delicious vegetarian options:

• Roasted Vegetables and Cheese: Use a medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and onions with your favorite cheese.
• Spinach and Feta: A classic combination of spinach, feta cheese, and a touch of nutmeg.
• Mushroom and Swiss: Sautéed mushrooms with Swiss cheese create a savory and earthy vegetarian option.
• Tomato, Mozzarella, and Basil: A Caprese-inspired croissant with tomato, mozzarella, and fresh basil (add basil after baking for best flavor).

Q6: Can I use different types of mustard?

A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of mustard to customize the flavor. Dijon mustard provides a classic tangy kick, but you can also try:

• Honey Mustard: Adds a sweeter and milder flavor.
• Whole Grain Mustard: Offers a coarser texture and a more robust, slightly spicy flavor.
• Spicy Brown Mustard: Provides a bolder, spicier mustard flavor.
• English Mustard: Very strong and pungent, use sparingly if you prefer a powerful mustard flavor.

Choose a mustard that complements your taste preferences and the other ingredients.

Q7: How do I store leftover baked croissants?

A: Leftover baked croissants are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the croissants will lose some of their crispness upon storage. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave to restore some warmth and texture before serving.

Q8: Can I double or triple this recipe for a larger crowd?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is easily scalable. Simply double or triple the ingredients proportionally to make a larger batch for parties, gatherings, or meal prepping. Ensure you have enough baking sheets to bake the croissants in a single layer for even cooking. You may need to bake in batches if your oven is small.

Print