A warm and flaky ham and cheese croissant recipe is a sophisticated sandwich that can make you feel like you’re sitting in a French bistro. With just four ingredients, it’s essential to choose the best quality for each component. This is the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to top-notch sliced ham and cheese from the deli, along with a good jar of Dijon mustard. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try making your own croissants from scratch.

If you’re short on time, you can always grab fresh croissants from your favorite bakery. It’s worth spending a little extra on bakery-made croissants instead of the pre-packaged ones from the grocery store—fresh croissants are rich, buttery, and delightfully flaky, making this sandwich truly special.

Ingredients

Steps to Make It

01

Make sure you have all the ingredients ready before you start. Turn the oven on to 350 F and let it warm up.

02

Slice 4 large croissants in half the long way and put them on a baking pan.

03

Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard to each halved piece and spread it evenly.

04

Add a slice of Swiss cheese to the bottom halves of the croissants. Tear the cheese in half if necessary to cover the surface without blocking the middle hole.

05

Place two pieces of deli ham on top of every croissant.

06

Place the remaining cheese slices on top, tearing them if necessary.

07

Place the tops back on the croissants. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the croissants are warm and toasty.

08

Eat them right after baking, while they’re warm and fresh.

FAQs:

1. Can I use pre-packaged croissants instead of bakery-fresh ones?

Yes, you can use pre-packaged croissants in a pinch, but here’s the deal—bakery-fresh croissants are the real stars of this recipe. They’re buttery, flaky, and have that irresistible golden crunch that makes this sandwich feel like a treat. Pre-packaged croissants can work, but they often lack the freshness and texture that take this dish from good to wow. If you’re going for that French bistro vibe, splurge on the good stuff!

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! If you’re planning ahead, you can assemble it and keep them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just wrap them tightly to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can bake them fresh and reheat leftovers later. Pop them in the oven for 5 minutes at 350°F to bring back that warm, melty goodness. Perfect for meal prep or a quick breakfast!

3. What type of ham works best for this recipe?

The ham you choose can make or break your croissant sandwich. Thinly sliced deli ham is ideal—think honey-baked ham for a touch of sweetness, Black Forest ham for a smoky flavor, or classic hickory-smoked ham for that timeless taste. The key is to go for high-quality ham—it’s one of the main ingredients, so don’t skimp!

4. Can I substitute the cheese?

Of course! Swiss cheese is the classic choice, but feel free to get creative. Cheddar adds a sharp, tangy kick, muenster is creamy and mild, fontina melts beautifully, and gouda brings a rich, nutty flavor. The cheese is your playground—pick one that suits your mood or mix and match for a fun twist!

5. Can I add other ingredients to the sandwich?

Absolutely! This recipe is a fantastic base for customization. Add sliced tomatoes for freshness, spinach or arugula for a peppery bite, avocado for creaminess, or even a fried egg for a breakfast-inspired upgrade. Just be mindful of moisture—too many wet ingredients can make it soggy. Layer wisely!

6. How do I reheat leftover ham and cheese croissants?

Leftovers? No problem! To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven magic, reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. This will restore the crispiness and melt the cheese perfectly. If you’re in a hurry, 20 seconds in the microwave will do, but the oven is the winner for texture.

7. Can I freeze ham and cheese croissants?

Freezing it isn’t ideal—they can lose their flaky texture and become soggy when thawed. However, you can freeze unbaked assembled it. Wrap them tightly and bake them straight from the freezer (just add a few extra minutes to the baking time). Fresh and flaky every time!

8. What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?

Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick, but you can switch it up! Honey mustard brings a sweet and savory balance, whole-grain mustard adds a rustic texture, or even a light spread of mayonnaise or pesto can create a whole new flavor profile. Experiment and find your favorite!

9. How can I make this recipe kid-friendly?

Kids love a sweeter, milder version! Swap in honey-baked ham, cheddar cheese, and honey mustard for a sandwich that’s sure to be a hit. You can also cut it into smaller, bite-sized pieces for little hands. It’s a lunchbox winner!

10. Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?

Definitely! Skip the ham and go for grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Plant-based deli slices or marinated tofu also work great. Pair them with your favorite cheese and spreads for a delicious vegetarian twist.

11. How do I prevent the croissants from getting soggy?

The secret is in the assembly! Avoid overloading it with wet ingredients, and apply spreads like mustard thinly. If you’re adding veggies, pat them dry first. Assemble just before baking to keep everything crisp and fresh.

12. Can I use homemade croissants for this recipe?

If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade croissants will take this recipe to the next level! They’re buttery, flaky, and oh-so-satisfying. Sure, it’s a bit of work, but the result is worth it. Plus, you’ll feel like a pastry chef!

13. What sides pair well with ham and cheese croissants?

Turn this sandwich into a meal with some tasty sides! A simple green salad, fresh fruit, a bowl of soup, or even roasted potatoes make perfect companions. It’s all about balance—something light and fresh to complement the rich, savory croissant.

14. How long can I store baked ham and cheese croissants?

Baked croissants can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. Wrap them tightly to keep them fresh, and reheat in the oven before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm and melty!

15. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Look for gluten-free croissants at specialty stores or online. Make sure your ham, cheese, and mustard are also gluten-free. It’s an easy swap that lets everyone enjoy this delicious sandwich.