Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh, quality ham and a cheese that melts beautifully are non-negotiable for me. When I was learning to cook professionally in the States, I quickly realized how ingredient quality transforms a dish. For these croissants, I like to use store-bought puff pastry for ease, but homemade dough works if you’re feeling adventurous. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses based on what you have; it’s all about finding your perfect balance of savory and creamy.
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed (about 8 oz)
- 4 oz sliced ham, preferably smoked or honey-glazed
- 4 oz cheese, sliced or shredded (Gruyère, Swiss, or sharp cheddar work well)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a subtle tang)
- Butter, for brushing (optional)
Substitution tip: If you don’t have puff pastry on hand, crescent roll dough can work in a pinch for a softer, less flaky result. And while I love ham here, leftover turkey or roasted chicken can be a delicious alternative.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet. Cut it into four equal squares.
- If using, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each square for an extra flavor dimension.
- Place a slice of ham and cheese on each square, leaving some space around the edges to seal the pastry.
- Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle, pressing the edges firmly to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a neat finish.
- Transfer the croissants to your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.
- Optional: Brush a little melted butter on top before baking for extra richness.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the croissants are puffed up and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth on that delicious melted cheese.
From my experience, timing is crucial here. Keep an eye on the croissants towards the end—oven temperatures can vary, and you want that perfect golden crust without overbaking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
