Rustic German Ham and Swiss Delight Sandwiches
Indulge in the flavors of old-world Germany with these delightful Rusting German Ham and Swiss Delight Sandwiches. Packed with creamy mayo, tangy sauerkraut, and layers of tender ham and Swiss cheese, this classic comfort food is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a simple family meal. Not only can these sandwiches be prepared ahead of time for convenience, but they also offer flexibility with toppings and variations. Whether you savor them straight from the oven or add a twist with seasonal ingredients, these hearty sandwiches are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
mayonnaise
1/4 cup (none)
sour cream
1/4 cup (none)
caraway seed
1/4 teaspoon, crushed (crushed)
black pepper
1/8 teaspoon (none)
sauerkraut
1/2 cup (drained (1/2 of an 8-oz can))
butter
3/4 tablespoon (melted)
country bread
12 slices (none)
Swiss cheese
18 slices (none)
ham
6 slices (thinly sliced)
pickle
to taste (optional)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, crushed caraway seeds, and black pepper until smooth. Gently fold in the drained sauerkraut and set the mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld.
3
On a baking sheet lined with foil, lay out six slices of the country bread. Using a pastry brush, coat the tops of each slice with melted butter.
4
Layer the sandwiches by placing a slice of Swiss cheese on each buttered slice of bread. Spread one-sixth of the sauerkraut mixture over the cheese, then add a slice of ham, followed by two more slices of Swiss cheese to create a hearty filling.
5
Top each sandwich with a second slice of country bread, butter side up, effectively creating a sandwich.
6
Carefully transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is lightly browned, flipping the sandwiches halfway through for even crispness.
7
Once done, remove the sandwiches from the oven and let them cool slightly. Slice each sandwich diagonally for easy serving, and pair with pickles for an added crunch if desired.
8
For a seasonal twist, try adding thin slices of apple between the layers, or substitute corned beef for ham for a delicious Nebraska-style Reuben. Feel free to enhance the sauerkraut mixture with sunflower kernels or edamame for extra nutrition and flavor!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Rustic German Ham and Swiss Delight Sandwich?
It is an oven-baked sandwich inspired by old-world German flavors, featuring ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauerkraut mixture on country bread.
What ingredients are used in the creamy sauce?
The sauce is made by whisking together mayonnaise, sour cream, crushed caraway seeds, and black pepper.
How do I prepare the sauerkraut for this recipe?
The sauerkraut should be thoroughly drained and then gently folded into the mayonnaise and sour cream mixture.
What oven temperature is required?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking the sandwiches.
What type of bread is recommended?
The recipe calls for 12 slices of country bread.
How is the butter applied to the bread?
Use a pastry brush to coat the tops of the bread slices with melted butter while they are on the baking sheet.
How many slices of Swiss cheese are used in each sandwich?
Each sandwich uses three slices of Swiss cheese: one on the bottom layer and two more on top of the ham.
What is the total baking time?
The sandwiches should bake for approximately 10 minutes in total.
Should I flip the sandwiches while they are in the oven?
Yes, flip the sandwiches halfway through the baking time to ensure even crispness on both sides.
Can these sandwiches be prepared in advance?
Yes, these sandwiches can be prepared ahead of time, making them convenient for picnics or gatherings.
How many sandwiches does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make six hearty sandwiches.
What meat can be substituted for ham?
You can substitute corned beef for the ham to create a delicious Nebraska-style Reuben.
How can I add a seasonal twist to the recipe?
Try adding thin slices of apple between the layers for a unique seasonal flavor.
What can I add for extra nutrition and flavor?
You can enhance the sauerkraut mixture by adding sunflower kernels or edamame.
How should the sandwiches be served?
Remove them from the oven, let them cool slightly, and slice them diagonally for serving.
Are pickles recommended with this dish?
Yes, pairing the sandwiches with pickles is recommended if you want an added crunch.
Do I need to line the baking sheet?
The instructions recommend lining the baking sheet with foil for easier preparation.
How are the caraway seeds prepared?
The caraway seeds should be crushed before being whisked into the sauce mixture.
What is the layer order for the filling?
Layer the buttered bread with cheese, then the sauerkraut mixture, followed by a slice of ham, and finally more cheese.
Is the ham used in this recipe thick or thin?
The recipe specifically calls for 6 slices of thinly sliced ham.
How much sauerkraut is needed?
You will need 1/2 cup of drained sauerkraut, which is approximately half of an 8-oz can.
What spices are included in the recipe?
The recipe uses crushed caraway seeds and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper.
How much butter is required?
The recipe uses 3/4 tablespoon of melted butter to coat the bread.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 10 total ingredients listed for this recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for a family meal?
Yes, it is described as a classic comfort food perfect for a simple family meal.
Does the recipe require any stovetop cooking?
No, the sandwiches are entirely oven-baked.
What is the goal for the bread's texture after baking?
The bread should be lightly browned and crisp.
What is the goal for the cheese after baking?
The sandwiches are done once the Swiss cheese is completely melted.
How many slices of bread are used in total?
The recipe requires 12 slices of country bread to make 6 sandwiches.
Why let the sandwiches cool slightly before slicing?
Allowing them to cool slightly helps the melted cheese set enough to make slicing cleaner and easier.