There’s something utterly irresistible about a warm, toasty croissant filled with melted cheese and savory meats. These Turkey & Ham Croissant Melts take the humble sandwich to new heights, combining buttery, flaky pastry with layers of deli favorites and gooey cheese that stretches with every bite.
Perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a casual dinner, these melts strike that ideal balance between sophisticated flavor and comforting simplicity. They’re impressive enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight meal when you’re craving something a little special without all the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This
- Uses store-bought croissants for maximum flavor with minimal effort
- Customizable with whatever deli meats and cheeses you have on hand
- Ready in under 45 minutes from start to finish
- Perfect for using up holiday leftovers or deli tray extras
- The combination of flaky, buttery exterior and melty interior is absolutely crave-worthy
Ingredients
- 4 large croissants, sliced in half horizontally
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 8 slices deli ham (Bistro Favorites recommended)
- 12 slices oven-roasted turkey (Bistro Favorites recommended)
- 3 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Place the bottom halves of the croissants on the baking sheet. On each one, layer 1 slice of provolone, 2 slices of ham, 3 slices of turkey and 1 more slice of provolone. Top with the croissant tops to close each sandwich.
- Use a pastry brush or spoon to gently coat the tops of each croissant with melted butter. This will help them toast up beautifully in the oven.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 5–8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the croissants are lightly golden and crisp on top.
- Let the sandwiches rest for a minute or two, then serve immediately. Pair with kettle chips, a fresh fruit salad, or a simple spring mix tossed in vinaigrette.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, use turkey bacon instead of ham or try with just turkey for a simpler sandwich.
- Add thinly sliced tomatoes, avocado, or baby spinach for freshness and extra nutrients.
- Try different cheese combinations—Gruyère, cheddar, or pepper jack all work beautifully.
- For a breakfast version, add a fried egg on top of the cheese before closing the sandwich.
- Make a vegetarian version with roasted red peppers, sautéed mushrooms, and baby spinach in place of the meats.
- Assemble these ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve—just add 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
These croissant melts pair beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. The crisp, fresh greens provide the perfect contrast to the warm, buttery sandwiches.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside a cup of tomato soup for dipping or a small bowl of fresh fruit to brighten the plate. If serving for brunch, add a mimosa or freshly squeezed orange juice to complete the spread.
Notes
- Store any leftover assembled but unbaked sandwiches in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
- You’ll know the melts are done when the cheese is fully melted and the edges of the croissants turn a deep golden brown.
- Day-old croissants actually work better for this recipe as they hold up better to the fillings without getting soggy.
- For extra crispiness, you can brush the tops with a beaten egg before baking.
FAQs
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F and cook for about 5-6 minutes until the cheese is melted and the croissants are crispy.
How do I prevent my croissants from getting soggy?
Make sure your fillings aren’t too wet, and if using tomatoes, pat them dry with paper towels first. Also, toasting the croissant halves for 2-3 minutes before adding fillings helps create a barrier.
Can I freeze these for later?
You can freeze the assembled but unbaked sandwiches for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, adding about 5 minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a 325°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it will make the croissants soggy rather than crispy.
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