Croissant with Ham, Cheese, and Dijon Mustard

The Croissant with Ham, Cheese, and Dijon Mustard is a timeless café-style sandwich that perfectly balances buttery richness, savory depth, and gentle tang. Flaky, golden croissants are sliced open and filled with smoky ham, melty cheese, and a thin spread of Dijon mustard that cuts through the richness with just the right amount of sharpness. When warmed, the croissant becomes lightly crisp on the outside while staying soft and tender inside, and the cheese melts beautifully into the ham.

This recipe is inspired by classic French bistro flavors, yet it’s incredibly easy to make at home. Whether you’re preparing a quick breakfast, an elegant brunch, or a simple lunch, this croissant sandwich feels special without being complicated. It’s comfort food with a touch of sophistication.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s:

• Quick and effortless, yet feels indulgent
• Perfectly balanced—rich, savory, and tangy
• Made with just a few high-quality ingredients
• Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or lunch
• Easily customizable to taste

It’s one of those recipes that proves simplicity can be truly luxurious.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Classic French café flavors at home
• Ready in minutes
• Perfect for busy mornings or elegant brunches
• Comforting yet refined
• Loved by both kids and adults

Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Servings

• Preparation Time: 5–10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes
• Total Time: ~15–20 minutes
• Servings: 2 sandwiches

Calories: ~420–480 calories per serving (depending on cheese and ham)

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Breakfast / Brunch / Lunch
• Cuisine: French-Inspired / European

Ingredients

• 2 large butter croissants
• 4–6 slices good-quality ham (smoked or honey ham)
• 4 slices cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, or Emmental)
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for brushing)

Cooking Directions

• Slice and prepare croissants
• Spread Dijon mustard
• Layer ham and cheese
• Warm until golden and melty

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat

1. Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.
   (Alternatively, use a skillet or panini press.)

Step 2: Prepare the Croissants

1. Slice croissants horizontally, keeping halves attached if desired.
2. Lightly spread Dijon mustard on the inside of each croissant.

Step 3: Assemble

1. Layer ham evenly on the bottom half of each croissant.
2. Top with cheese slices, ensuring even coverage.

Step 4: Warm & Melt

1. Place croissants on a baking tray.
2. Brush tops lightly with butter if desired.
3. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until cheese is melted and croissants are lightly crisp.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from oven and let rest for 1 minute.
2. Serve warm.

How to Serve

• Serve warm with a green salad
• Pair with tomato soup for a cozy meal
• Enjoy with coffee or fresh juice for brunch
• Cut in halves for party platters

Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality croissants for best flavor
• Don’t overdo the mustard—a thin layer is perfect
• Gruyère melts beautifully and adds nutty flavor
• Warm gently to avoid drying out the croissant
• Wrap loosely in foil if reheating

Variations

1. Croissant Croque-Monsieur Style: Add béchamel sauce on top
2. Turkey & Cheese Croissant: Swap ham for turkey
3. Spicy Version: Add whole-grain mustard or chili flakes
4. Breakfast Croissant: Add scrambled eggs
5. Vegetarian Version: Use roasted vegetables and cheese

Freezing and Storage

Storage

• Best eaten fresh
• Store assembled but unbaked croissants in the fridge for 1 day

Freezing

• Freeze assembled (unbaked) croissants for up to 1 month
• Bake from frozen at 180°C / 350°F until heated through

Special Equipment Needed

• Oven or skillet
• Baking tray
• Serrated knife
• Butter knife or spreader

Conclusion

Croissant with Ham, Cheese, and Dijon Mustard is a beautifully simple recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Buttery, flaky, savory, and perfectly balanced, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, this classic croissant sandwich is always a delicious choice.