Oh my goodness, have I got a recipe for you today! Picture this: soft, flaky croissants oozing with gooey Swiss cheese and savory ham, all beautifully golden brown and just begging to be devoured. Hot Ham and Swiss Croissants have quickly become one of my go-to recipes for a delicious brunch, a cozy dinner, or even a delightful snack. There’s just something so comforting about biting into that warm bread, filled with melted cheese and ham, that takes me back to lazy Sunday mornings spent with family.
I first stumbled upon this gem during a holiday gathering at my Aunt Linda’s house. She whipped these up in no time, and I was instantly hooked! Everyone gathered around, tearing into the croissants, chatting, and laughing. It was one of those moments that warmed my heart and filled my belly – and I’ve been making them ever since! So, let’s dive into this savory goodness together!
What’s in Hot Ham and Swiss Croissants?
Croissants: The star of the show! I love using large croissants that are buttery and flaky. Store-bought works wonders for this recipe, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade croissants will take these to a whole new level.
Swiss cheese: Creamy and mild, Swiss cheese complements the savory ham perfectly. I usually go for fresh slices from the deli whenever possible—so much better than pre-packaged!
Cooked ham: Whatever your favorite ham might be—thinly sliced deli ham or leftover holiday ham—this is definitely the meaty goodness that adds depth to our croissants.
Dijon mustard and mayonnaise: These two spreads work together like a dynamic duo to add a little zing to the croissants! The mustard has a slight kick, while the mayo gives creaminess and helps everything bind.
Melted butter: Brush this delightful fat on top for that gorgeous golden brown finish! The richness also adds a lovely flavor to the croissants.
Garlic powder: Sprinkle this on top for a tasty aromatic boost. Just be careful not to overdo it; you want a subtle hint of garlic, not a mouthful!
Fresh parsley: This is optional, but let me tell you, a sprinkle of green herbs can really elevate your dish and make it look all fancy for serving!
Is Hot Ham and Swiss Croissants Good for You?
Well, I won’t say these beauties are health food, but they can definitely fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation! The combination of protein from the ham and Swiss cheese can be filling, making these croissants a great option for breakfast or lunch.
Croissants: While they are delightful, keep in mind they can be high in calories and fat, so it’s best to enjoy them as an occasional treat.
Swiss cheese: This lovely cheese provides calcium and protein, which can offer some nutritional benefits!
Dijon mustard: It’s actually low in calories and can help add flavor without weighing down your meal.
So, while it’s not a salad, you’re getting some protein and calcium here. Let’s just say, they’re best shared with friends or family—because food tastes better when enjoyed together!
Ingredients List
– 6 large croissants
– 12 slices of Swiss cheese
– 12 slices of cooked ham
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Garlic powder (to taste)
– Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
This recipe serves about 6 people – perfect for a small gathering, brunch with friends, or just for you (hey, no judgment!).
How to Make Hot Ham and Swiss Croissants?
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to get those croissants nice and toasty.
2. Slice each croissant in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom piece—like opening a delicious book!
3. In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise. Spread this mixture evenly on the inside of each croissant half. Trust me, this is where the magic begins!
4. Layer 2 slices of Swiss cheese on the bottom half of each croissant, followed by 2 slices of ham, and then another slice of Swiss cheese. You can never have too much cheese, right?
5. Place the top half of the croissant back on. It’s like giving your croissants a cozy little blanket!
6. Brush the tops of each croissant with the melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder. Yum!
7. Place the croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. We don’t want any sticky situations here!
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown and the cheese has melted. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Voilà!
10. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Hot Ham and Swiss Croissants!
Oh, and if you want to prep these ahead of time, you absolutely can! Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to increase the baking time a bit if they’re cold.
Serving Suggestions and Tips for Croissant Lovers
Why not pair these delightful croissants with a side of fresh fruit or a garden salad for a lovely brunch? If you’re feeling fancy, a lovely fruit jam or some mustard on the side can take them up a notch!
And here’s a little tip from me: if you want to spice things up, try adding some sliced tomatoes or even a little pop of jalapeño for those who like it hot! If you need to cater to dietary restrictions, turkey or a plant-based option can be just as fantastic as ham. Get creative, and make it your own!
I really hope you give these Hot Ham and Swiss Croissants a try! Whether you’re making them for family or just treating yourself, they’re sure to bring comfort and joy. Don’t forget to share your experience with me; I would love to hear about your delicious creations! Happy cooking!