Looking for a quick, indulgent breakfast or lunch that feels fancy without the fuss? These Air Fryer Ham Cheese Croissants are about to become your new favorite go-to meal. Flaky, buttery croissants stuffed with savory ham and melty cheese, then crisped to golden perfection in your air fryer.
What makes these croissants special is how the air fryer transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. The outside becomes delightfully crisp while the inside stays tender, with cheese that stretches with each bite. Best of all, they’re ready in a fraction of the time it would take in a conventional oven.
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick and easy – ready in under 15 minutes of active cooking time
- Perfect texture contrast – crispy exterior with a soft, buttery interior
- Customizable – easily adapt with different cheeses or add-ins
- Kid-friendly but sophisticated enough for adults
- Minimal cleanup with air fryer cooking
Ingredients
- 4 croissants (fresh or day-old work best)
- 8 slices deli ham, thinly sliced
- 4 slices cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or your favorite)
Instructions
- Carefully slice each croissant in half lengthwise, but don't cut all the way through. Leave a hinge at the back so the croissant opens like a book.
- Place 2 slices of ham inside each croissant, layering them evenly to distribute the filling throughout.
- Top the ham with a slice of cheese in each croissant. Fold the cheese slightly if needed to make it fit nicely inside.
- Set your air fryer to 350°F and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes while you finish assembling the croissants.
- Place the filled croissants in the air fryer basket with space between them for air circulation. Cook at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Carefully remove the hot croissants from the air fryer and serve immediately while the cheese is still melty and the croissants are crispy outside.
Tips & Variations
- For a breakfast version, add a thin slice of tomato and a fried egg
- Try different cheese combinations – mozzarella and provolone make a great Italian-inspired version
- Add thinly sliced apple or pear for a sweet and savory twist
- Vegetarian option: replace ham with sautéed mushrooms and spinach
- Make ahead by assembling the night before, then air fry in the morning
- If your croissants are browning too quickly, lower the temperature to 325°F and extend cooking time
Serving Suggestions
These air fryer ham cheese croissants pair beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit and a mimosa for an effortless yet impressive spread.
If serving for lunch, a cup of tomato soup makes the perfect companion for dipping those crispy, cheesy edges.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 2-3 minutes to restore crispness.
- Look for croissants that are fresh but not too soft – day-old croissants work perfectly.
- The croissants are done when cheese is melted and visible at the edges.
FAQs
Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes! Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
Can I freeze these croissant sandwiches?
You can freeze them assembled but uncooked. Wrap individually in foil, freeze, then cook from frozen adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking too much?
Place the cheese in the middle of the ham rather than directly against the croissant edges, and don’t overstuff.
Can I use mini croissants instead?
Absolutely! Reduce the filling by half and check after 3 minutes of cooking as they’ll heat through faster.
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