Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are a simple yet indulgent dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick dinner. Layers of buttery croissants, savory ham, melted cheese, and a tangy mayonnaise-mustard spread come together for a warm and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or weeknight dinners.
• Customizable: Swap out the cheese, ham, or spread to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, brunches, or casual get-togethers.
• Comforting: Buttery croissants and gooey cheese make this dish irresistibly cozy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Croissants, sliced in half
• Deli ham, thinly sliced (Black Forest ham recommended)
• Muenster cheese, thinly sliced (or Havarti, Cheddar, Swiss, etc.)
• Mayonnaise
• Stoneground mustard, to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Spread

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, a squeeze of stoneground mustard, and chopped fresh chives to taste.

Step 2: Assemble the Croissants

1. Spread the mayonnaise mixture on the bottom half of each croissant.
2. Add a slice of cheese, a few slices of deli ham, and another slice of cheese.
3. Place the top half of the croissant on the sandwich.

Step 3: Bake

1. Arrange the prepared croissants on a baking sheet.
2. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sandwiches are warmed through.
3. Remove the foil during the last 2-3 minutes to crisp up the tops of the croissants.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy hot and melty!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Try Gruyere, Brie, Provolone, or Pepper Jack for a twist.
• Sweet and Savory: Add a thin layer of fig jam or honey for a touch of sweetness.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.
• Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the spread.
• Herb-Infused: Include fresh thyme or basil in the mayonnaise mixture for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Wrap leftovers in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the croissants without baking, then wrap them in foil and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

2. Can I use mini croissants?

Absolutely! Mini croissants make perfect bite-sized sandwiches for parties. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

3. What other meats can I use?

Turkey, roast beef, or prosciutto are great alternatives to ham.

4. Can I use pre-packaged mustard?

Yes, stoneground mustard adds texture, but Dijon or yellow mustard works too.

5. How do I make these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free croissants available at specialty stores.

6. Can I skip the aluminum foil?

Foil helps keep the croissants soft and ensures even heating. Remove it during the last few minutes for a crispy top.

7. What can I serve with these croissants?

Pair with a green salad, tomato soup, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.

8. Can I freeze these sandwiches?

Yes, freeze unbaked sandwiches tightly wrapped in foil. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

9. Can I add other spreads?

Yes, pesto, aioli, or herbed cream cheese are great options.

10. What’s the best way to slice the croissants?

Use a serrated knife to cut croissants cleanly without crushing them.

Conclusion

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are a quick, versatile, and indulgent meal perfect for any time of day. With their crispy, buttery croissants, savory ham, melty cheese, and tangy mustard spread, they’re sure to be a hit. Customize them with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a warm, comforting dish that’s as simple as it is delicious!

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