Croissant Sandwich with Ham and Havarti

Pin1

This croissant sandwich is the epitome of comfort food. With layers of thinly sliced deli ham and creamy Havarti cheese, all melted to perfection in the oven, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal. The addition of fresh arugula tossed in a light honey Dijon dressing adds a touch of sophistication and a peppery freshness that balances the richness of the cheese.

Perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a quick weeknight dinner, this sandwich brings together soft, flaky croissants with classic savory ingredients for a delicious and indulgent bite. The honey Dijon dressing adds a hint of sweetness and tang, making each bite irresistible.

Full Recipe:

4 large croissants, halved
12 slices of deli ham
8 slices of Havarti cheese
2 cups fresh arugula
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and set aside.
Place the bottom halves of the croissants on the baking sheet, cut side up. Layer 3 slices of ham and 2 slices of Havarti cheese on each bottom half.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
Brush the top halves of the croissants with the olive oil mixture, using about 1/2 teaspoon for each. Place the top halves, cut side down, on the baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the ham is warmed through.
Toss the arugula with the remaining olive oil mixture until evenly coated.
Remove the croissants from the oven, top the melted cheese with the dressed arugula, and place the croissant tops on the sandwiches. Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 7 minutes | Total Time: 17 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

About the Ingredients:

Croissants: Using buttery, flaky croissants gives this sandwich its rich and decadent texture. The crisp exterior and soft, airy interior provide the perfect vessel for the savory fillings.
Ham: Thin slices of deli ham add a savory, salty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy Havarti cheese. You can opt for smoked or honey-glazed ham to elevate the flavor even further.
Havarti Cheese: Known for its mild and creamy texture, Havarti melts exceptionally well, creating that perfect oozy layer of cheese. You can also substitute Havarti with Swiss, Gouda, or even sharp Cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Arugula: This leafy green adds a peppery freshness that balances the richness of the ham and cheese. You can also switch it up with spinach, mixed greens, or even microgreens for a different texture and flavor.
Honey Dijon Dressing: The combination of honey and Dijon mustard creates a tangy-sweet dressing that ties all the elements together. It enhances the flavors without overpowering them, adding a subtle complexity to each bite.

Preparation Tips:

Croissants: For best results, use fresh bakery croissants. If your croissants are a bit stale, you can lightly toast them before assembling the sandwich to bring back their crispiness.
Oven Timing: Keep an eye on the sandwiches while they’re baking—oven temperatures can vary, and you want the cheese to melt perfectly without burning the croissant.
Customizations: This recipe is easily customizable. For a gourmet twist, add ingredients like caramelized onions, roasted peppers, or a fried egg. You can also experiment with different meats such as turkey or prosciutto.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the honey Dijon dressing and even assemble the sandwiches a few hours before baking them. Simply refrigerate the assembled sandwiches and bake them just before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

This croissant sandwich is versatile enough to be served in various settings:

Brunch: Serve this sandwich as the star of your brunch menu, accompanied by a side of fresh fruit salad or a light soup.
Lunch: Pair it with a simple green salad, potato chips, or a cup of tomato soup for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Dinner: For a more substantial meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a hearty grain salad.

Variations:

You can easily adapt this recipe based on dietary preferences:

Vegetarian: Replace the ham with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or roasted mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
Spicy Kick: Add a drizzle of sriracha or a slice of spicy pepper jack cheese for those who love a little heat.
Sweet and Savory: For a unique flavor twist, include a thin layer of fig jam or cranberry sauce between the ham and cheese for a sweet contrast.

Why This Recipe Works:

The combination of buttery croissants, savory ham, and gooey melted cheese is timeless. What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors—the slight sweetness from the honey, the tang from Dijon mustard, and the peppery bite of fresh arugula add depth and complexity to this otherwise simple sandwich. It’s an elevated take on a classic ham and cheese croissant, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.

Ingredient Origins and Flavors:

Croissants: Croissants have a rich culinary history that dates back to Austria, though they are now most associated with France. Their layered, flaky dough comes from the process of laminating butter into the dough, which creates their signature airy and crispy texture. When toasted for this sandwich, croissants develop an even more buttery, crunchy exterior while remaining soft inside—perfect for holding the melted cheese and ham.
Ham: The deli ham used in this recipe brings a salty, savory taste that complements the rich, buttery croissant. You can choose from a variety of hams—smoked ham for a deeper flavor or honey-glazed ham for a sweet contrast. European-style hams, like Prosciutto or Jambon de Paris, can be used for a more gourmet feel, giving this sandwich a subtle sophistication.
Havarti Cheese: Originating from Denmark, Havarti is known for its mild, buttery flavor and semi-soft texture. It melts easily, making it ideal for sandwiches like this one. Havarti can also come in variations like dill Havarti or creamy Havarti, which would add another layer of complexity to the flavor.
Arugula: Also called rocket in some countries, arugula is a Mediterranean green known for its slightly bitter and peppery flavor. It adds a crisp and fresh element to this sandwich, balancing the richness of the croissant and cheese. Arugula is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, making this sandwich feel a bit lighter and more nutritious.
Honey Dijon Dressing: The combination of Dijon mustard and honey adds a burst of tangy sweetness, cutting through the richness of the ham and cheese. Dijon mustard hails from the Burgundy region in France and has a smooth, refined flavor that pairs beautifully with the slight sweetness of honey, making it a versatile dressing for sandwiches, salads, or even as a marinade.

Health Benefits:

While this croissant sandwich is indulgent, it also offers some surprising health benefits:

Arugula: Rich in antioxidants, arugula contains vitamins A and C, which are important for skin health and immune function. It’s also a good source of calcium, helping to support bone health.
Havarti Cheese: While cheese can be high in calories, it is also an excellent source of calcium and protein. Cheese in moderation can help support strong bones and muscles.
Deli Ham: Lean cuts of deli ham can be a good source of protein while remaining relatively low in fat. For a healthier option, you can choose low-sodium varieties to keep the dish heart-healthy.

Perfect Pairings:

Beverages: This croissant sandwich pairs well with a variety of beverages. For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, serve with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with a splash of citrus. If you’re serving this sandwich for brunch or a light lunch, a chilled white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay works well with the creamy Havarti and salty ham. A light, crisp beer like a pilsner would also be a great match.
Side Dishes: For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing this croissant sandwich with:
- Soup: A creamy tomato bisque or French onion soup would complement the richness of the sandwich while providing a comforting contrast.
- Salad: A light, citrusy salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the savory elements of the sandwich, adding a fresh touch.
- Fries or Chips: For a more classic lunch combo, serve with sweet potato fries, kettle chips, or even a light slaw to add crunch.
Dessert: Finish the meal on a sweet note with something light like fresh fruit, a fruit tart, or even a small serving of sorbet to cleanse the palate after the rich sandwich.

Fun Facts and Culinary Inspiration:

Origins of the Croissant: The croissant may be most famous as a French pastry, but its roots lie in Austria. The Viennese kipferl, a crescent-shaped bread, was the precursor to the croissant, which evolved when French bakers adopted and refined the recipe.
Havarti’s Popularity: While Havarti is a Danish cheese, its mild flavor and meltability have made it increasingly popular in international cuisine, especially in the U.S., where it’s used in everything from sandwiches to fondue.
The Appeal of Croissant Sandwiches: Croissant sandwiches have gained popularity for their indulgent yet versatile nature. They can be sweet or savory, depending on the filling, and are equally at home at a gourmet brunch as they are at a casual lunch table.
Arugula’s Rise: In recent years, arugula has gone from being a little-known green to a must-have ingredient in modern cuisine. Its distinctive peppery bite and versatility have made it a favorite in salads, sandwiches, and even pizzas.

Variations for Different Occasions:

Breakfast Version: Turn this into a breakfast sandwich by adding scrambled eggs or a fried egg on top of the ham and Havarti. The creamy yolk will mix beautifully with the honey Dijon dressing.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the ham for roasted vegetables like portobello mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. You can also add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Mini Sandwiches for Parties: If you’re hosting a brunch or gathering, consider using mini croissants to create bite-sized sandwiches that are perfect for serving a crowd. These can be made in advance and warmed up just before serving.

Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser:

This croissant sandwich is more than just a meal—it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that works for any occasion. Its perfect balance of flavors—rich cheese, salty ham, peppery arugula, and sweet honey mustard—ensures that there’s something for everyone to love. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family meal or a brunch with friends, it’s sure to be a hit.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

If you have leftovers, this croissant sandwich stores well for a day or two in the fridge. For the best results:

Wrap the sandwiches in foil and refrigerate.
To reheat, place the wrapped sandwich in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain the crispy texture of the croissant without drying out the filling.
Avoid microwaving the sandwich, as this can make the croissant soggy.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Croissant Sandwich combines the rich, buttery texture of croissants with savory ham, creamy Havarti, and a refreshing arugula salad, all elevated by a sweet and tangy honey Dijon dressing. Its versatility makes it perfect for any meal, whether it’s a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or a gourmet brunch. With easy customization options and simple preparation, this sandwich is sure to become a crowd favorite in any kitchen.