Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants: A Deliciously Simple Recipe for Any Occasion

Craving something warm, cheesy, and satisfying? These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are the perfect solution for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick dinner. With flaky, buttery croissants, savory deli ham, and gooey melted cheese, this easy recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and versatile. Whether you’re hosting a brunch with friends or looking for a cozy meal on a busy weekday, these croissants are sure to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite cheeses and meats to make it your own.
• Great for Any Meal: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy cheese and savory ham are flavors the whole family will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these baked ham and cheese croissants, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients.

• Croissants, sliced in half
• Deli ham, thinly sliced (Black Forest ham is a favorite!)
• Muenster cheese, thinly sliced (or swap with Havarti, Cheddar, Swiss, etc.)
• Mayonnaise
• Stoneground mustard, to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped (optional, for a fresh flavor boost)

Optional Add-ins to Elevate Your Croissants:

• Tomato slices for added juiciness.
• Spinach or arugula for a fresh, peppery bite.
• Honey or maple syrup drizzled inside for a sweet and savory contrast.
• A sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning on top before baking for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

These baked croissants come together quickly and easily. Here’s how to make them:

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven preheats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Spread

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, a squeeze of stoneground mustard, and chopped fresh chives (if using). This creamy, tangy mixture will add depth and flavor to your croissants.

3. Assemble the Croissants

Slice the croissants in half horizontally. Spread a bit of the mayo-mustard mixture on the bottom half of each croissant.

• Layer the ingredients: Place a slice of cheese on the bottom half, followed by a generous amount of deli ham. Add another slice of cheese on top of the ham, then place the top half of the croissant back on.

4. Bake to Perfection

Place the prepared croissants on the baking sheet. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the cheese melts.

• Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the croissants are heated through.
• For extra crispiness: Remove the foil during the last 3-5 minutes of baking to let the croissant tops get golden and slightly crispy.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These croissants are best enjoyed warm and melty. Serve with a side salad, fresh fruit, or even a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

• Use fresh croissants: Fresh bakery croissants give the best flaky, buttery texture.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese: The gooey, melted cheese is key to making these croissants irresistible.
• Experiment with flavors: Try different cheeses like Swiss for a nutty flavor or Havarti for creaminess.
• Make ahead: Assemble the croissants the night before and bake them in the morning for a quick breakfast.

What to Serve with Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

These croissants are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, depending on the meal:

• Breakfast/Brunch: Fresh fruit salad, yogurt parfaits, or scrambled eggs.
• Lunch/Dinner: Mixed green salad, roasted vegetables, or a hearty bowl of tomato soup.
• Drinks: Pair with fresh orange juice, a mimosa for brunch, or a hot cup of coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Muenster is creamy and melts beautifully, but you can also use Cheddar, Swiss, Havarti, or even Brie for a richer flavor.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Wrap leftover croissants tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze them?

Yes! Assemble the croissants, wrap them in foil, and freeze before baking. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes.

4. What’s the best ham to use?

Black Forest ham is a popular choice for its smoky flavor, but honey ham, Virginia ham, or even leftover holiday ham work great too!

Recipe Variations

• Croque Monsieur Style: Add a béchamel sauce on top before baking for a French twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot honey for a spicy-sweet combination.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.
• Breakfast Croissant: Add a fried egg to make it a hearty breakfast sandwich.

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