Ham and Cheese Croissant

Last winter my neighbor brought over day-old croissants from her bakery shift, and they sat on my counter mocking me. Not wanting to waste such beautiful pastries, I sliced them open, stuffed whatever ham and cheese I had in the fridge, and threw them in the oven. The smell that filled my kitchen made me drop what I was doing and stare through the oven door like a child.

My daughter walked in from school that day and immediately asked what smelled like a French bakery. We ate them standing up at the kitchen counter, burning our fingers slightly, neither of us wanting to wait for them to cool down. Now she requests them whenever she spots croissants starting to firm up.

Ingredients

• All-butter croissants: Day-old ones actually work better here since they hold up to slicing and filling without falling apart
• Cooked ham: Use something with real flavor, not the watery deli slices
• Swiss cheese: Gruyère melts beautifully but any good Swiss or Emmental will give you that classic nutty flavor
• Dijon mustard: Just a thin cut adds a sharp brightness that cuts through all that richness
• Unsalted butter: Brushing the tops helps them achieve that gorgeous golden finish

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper so nothing sticks and cleanup is effortless

Prep the croissants:

Slice each one horizontally leaving that back hinge intact so everything stays tucked inside while baking

Add the flavor layer:

Spread a whisper-thin layer of Dijon mustard inside if you want that extra kick

Fill them up:

Nestle a slice of ham and cheese into each croissant, then gently press them closed like youre tucking someone into bed

Brush and bake:

Lightly brush the tops with melted butter, arrange on your prepared sheet, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the pastry is deeply golden

Serve immediately:

Let them cool just long enough so you dont burn your tongue, which is honestly about 2 minutes

Save

Ive started keeping croissants specifically for this purpose now. Theres something deeply satisfying about turning what would be wasted bread into a meal that makes people pause and close their eyes when they take that first bite.

Making It Your Own

Sometimes I switch things up depending on whats in the fridge. Smoked salmon with cream cheese works beautifully, or turkey with sharp cheddar when I want something more familiar. The technique stays the same, but you can endless variations on the filling.

Serving Ideas

These feel fancy enough for brunch but are also perfect for a quick dinner alongside a simple green salad. The warmth and richness make them comforting, while the lightness of the pastry keeps them from feeling too heavy. A few cornichons on the side add the perfect acidic crunch.

Timing and Prep

The whole thing comes together in about 25 minutes from start to finish, which is faster than ordering takeout. You can even assemble them ahead of time and keep them in the fridge, ready to pop into the oven whenever that craving hits.

• Let assembled croissants sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before baking if theyve been refrigerated
• If the cheese isnt melted enough after 15 minutes, give them another 2 to 3 minutes
• These really dont reheat well, so plan to eat them all the same day

Save

There is something almost magical about the way simple ingredients can come together to create something that feels so special. These croissants have become my go-to for impromptu gatherings and lonely Tuesday nights alike.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh croissants instead of day-old?

Fresh croissants work fine, though day-old ones hold their shape better when sliced and filled. If using fresh, handle gently to avoid tearing.

→ What other cheeses work well?

Gruyère and Emmental are traditional choices with excellent melting properties. You can also use provolone, cheddar, or raclette for different flavor profiles.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Assemble the croissants up to a day in advance, refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. They may need an extra minute or two in the oven if cold.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled croissants in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 160°C (320°F) oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.

→ Can I freeze these?

Yes, freeze assembled unbaked croissants wrapped tightly for up to 3 weeks. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for ham?

Turkey, chicken, smoked salmon, or prosciutto work beautifully. For a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms or spinach with the cheese.