Jalapeño Ham & Cheese Croissant Sandwich Recipe

Prepare croissants

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a small serrated knife, slice each croissant horizontally about two-thirds of the way through so the top remains attached like a hinge. Place croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment.

Make spread

In a small bowl, combine softened butter, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lime juice. Stir until smooth and spreadable. Season with a pinch of salt and set aside.

Prepare peppers and aromatics

Remove the stem and seeds from the jalapeño if you want milder heat; finely dice. Thinly slice the scallions, separating white and green parts. Roughly chop the cilantro.

Assemble filling

On the bottom half of each croissant, spread about 1/2 tablespoon of the prepared spread. Layer 2 slices of ham per croissant (for 4 croissants, use total 8 slices). Fold or layer one slice each of sharp cheddar and pepper jack on top of the ham (1 slice cheddar + 1 slice pepper jack per croissant). Sprinkle the diced jalapeño evenly across the four croissants (about 1/4 of the diced jalapeño per sandwich). Scatter the sliced scallion whites and half of the chopped cilantro over the cheese. Season with a pinch (about 1/8 tsp) of kosher salt and a grind of black pepper per sandwich.

Optional add-ins

If using pickled jalapeños or hot sauce, add a small amount now to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce or 1/2 tablespoon pickled jalapeños per sandwich).

Close each croissant, pressing gently to compact the filling. Lightly brush the exposed top of each croissant with the 1/4 tablespoon unsalted butter (divide the 1 tablespoon among 4 croissants) to encourage browning.

Place the baking sheet with assembled croissants in the preheated oven. Bake 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and croissants are warmed through and buttery on top. If you prefer a more browned top, switch the oven to broil for 30–60 seconds while watching carefully.

Remove from oven. Sprinkle the remaining chopped cilantro and the sliced scallion greens over the sandwiches for freshness. Let sandwiches rest 1–2 minutes before serving to let the cheese settle.