Here I’ll show you the tastiest way to whip up a classic Ham and Cheese Sandwich!
When you’re scouting the sandwich section at the supermarket, you’ll more than likely spot the good old ham and cheese sandwich. It’s not one I ever find myself grabbing, just because it’s so much easier and tastier to make at home. But the combo of cheese and ham should be celebrated nevertheless, and that’s exactly what we’re doing today. Follow me…
Cheese and Ham Sandwich
What kind of bread to use?
Most ham and cheese sarnies use wholemeal seeded bread, and that’s exactly what I use. It’s quite a simple sandwich, so the extra texture and flavour in the bread work nicely.
What cheese goes well with a ham sandwich?
So many different cheeses work well with ham (Gruyere, Swiss, Red Leicester to name a few), but cheddar is the most classic option for a ham and cheese sandwich. I recommend a mature cheddar, just to pack in the flavour. Its sharpness will also help balance out the saltiness and sweetness of the ham.
Mayo vs Butter
Some ham and cheese sandwiches use butter, some use mayo. I personally like a combo of the two. Having said that you can use one or the other if you’d prefer.
Extra additions
You really don’t need much else, however, I do like a good pinch of cracked black pepper and a very thin spread of dijon mustard. Just make sure it’s a very thin layer of mustard, just so it doesn’t overpower the sandwich. If you don’t like mustard you can leave it out. Alternatively, if you prefer different mustards (English, wholegrain etc) then feel free to use that.
Process shots: spread bread with butter (photo 1), spread another slice with mustard (photo 2), top with mayo (photo 3), top butter with cheese (photo 4), add ham (photo 5), add pepper (photo 6), add bread (photo 7), slice in half (photo 8).
Toasted Ham and Cheese Sandwich (optional)
Typically I make cold ham and cheese sandwiches, but now and then I’ll toast it up. Toasted ham and cheese sandwiches (or ‘ham and cheese toasties’ / ‘ham grilled cheese’) are so simple to make.
Instead of spreading the butter/mayo on the inside, just spread one or the other on the outside. Add to a non-stick pan over medium heat and fry both sides until crisp, with the cheese melted in the centre. Alternatively, you can use a toastie machine if you have one!
Process shots: spread outside of sandwich with mayo or butter and add to pan (photo 1), fry both sides (photo 2), slice in half (photo 3).
Serving Ham and Cheese Sandwiches
I typically whip these up for a quick lunch, but they work great in the lunchbox too! Salt and vinegar crisps alongside is a non-negotiable 😋
What else can I add to a ham and cheese sandwich?
In all honesty, you don’t need anything else. Keep it classic! You could add all sorts of fillings such as tomatoes, onion, lettuce and pickle, but by that point, you’ve steered off the beaten track.
Alrighty, let’s tuck into the full recipe for this ham and cheese sandwich shall we?!
How to make Ham and Cheese Sandwiches (Full Recipe & Video)
A Perfect Ham and Cheese Sandwich
Equipment
- Vegetable/Potato Peeler (for cheese)
- Bread Knife & Regular Knife
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread one slice of bread with butter, then spread a VERY thin layer of mustard on the other. Top the mustard slice with a slightly more liberal spread of mayo.
- Top either slice with shaved cheese, then add the ham on top. I recommend folding in the ham, just to create a bit more height to the sandwich. Sprinkle the ham with black pepper to taste.
- Add the second slice on top, slice in half and enjoy!
Quick Demo
Notes
Your Private Notes:
Nutrition:
For more similar sandwiches check out these beauties:
Ham Sandwich Recipes
If you loved this Ham and Cheese Sandwich Recipe be sure to Pin it for later! Already made it or got a burning question? Give me a shout in the comments below!
Leave a Reply