Looking for a savory, buttery, and easy-to-make recipe that works for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack? These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are flaky, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just craving something cozy and indulgent, this simple recipe comes together fast and is packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Just 20 minutes of prep and a short bake time.
- Versatile – Use your favorite cheese and deli meat.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for brunch spreads, potlucks, or lazy weekends.
Ingredients
- 8 mini croissants – store-bought or homemade
- 3/4 lb deli-cut ham – thinly sliced
- 4 slices smoked or sharp cheddar cheese – cut in half
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter – softened
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 to 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 egg white – for egg wash
- Poppy seeds – optional, for sprinkling
How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Assemble the Croissants
Slice each croissant in half horizontally. Add a half slice of cheese, a few slices of ham, and another half slice of cheese. Close to form a sandwich.
3. Make the Spread
In a small bowl, mix together butter, mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Spread this mixture inside each croissant for a flavorful twist.
4. Arrange in the Dish
Place the filled croissants snugly in the prepared baking dish.
5. Brush with Egg Wash & Top
Whisk the egg white with a splash of water. Brush over the tops of the croissants and sprinkle with poppy seeds if desired.
6. Bake
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
7. Serve Warm
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm and gooey!
Tips & Variations
- Cheese Options: Try Swiss, provolone, pepper jack, or gruyère for different flavor profiles.
- Meat Swaps: Substitute ham with turkey, chicken, or crispy bacon.
- Add-Ins: Add thin tomato slices, spinach, or caramelized onions for extra flair.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free croissants and double-check labels on other ingredients.
Make Ahead & Storage
- Make Ahead: Assemble the croissants, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Short-Term Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
- Freezer Friendly: Wrap baked or unbaked croissants tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different mustard?
Absolutely! Dijon, spicy brown, or even honey mustard work great.
Can I skip the egg wash?
Yes, but it gives the croissants a nice golden finish and helps the poppy seeds stick.
Can I serve these for lunch or dinner?
Definitely! Pair with a soup or salad for a complete and comforting meal.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are everything you want in a savory pastry: warm, flaky, melty, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re prepping ahead or throwing them together last minute, they’ll become a go-to favorite for any meal or gathering.