Ultimate Crusty Ham and Cheese Delight
Indulge in the rich flavors of our Ultimate Crusty Ham and Cheese Delight! This mouthwatering sandwich features layers of creamy Monterey Jack cheese and savory deli ham, all nestled between crispy, buttery slices of artisan bread. The addition of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil elevates this classic combination to new heights. Perfect for a cozy lunch or a quick snack, these sandwiches pair beautifully with your favorite soup, such as Tomato Basil or French Onion. Simple to prepare and utterly satisfying, this is a recipe you'll want to repeat again and again.
4
Servings
300
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (grated)
Soft butter
3 tablespoons (softened)
Garlic powder
1 dash (optional)
Good-quality bread
8 slices (your choice (sourdough, whole grain, etc.))
Monterey Jack cheese
8 slices (sliced)
Deli ham
8 slices (thinly sliced)
Dijon mustard
to taste (spread)
Tomatoes
8 slices (thinly sliced)
Fresh basil
to taste (optional, or use dried basil)
Instructions
1
In a small mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, softened butter, and garlic powder (if using). Mix until well blended and set aside.
2
To assemble the sandwiches, start by laying out 4 slices of your chosen bread. Place 1 slice of Monterey Jack cheese on each slice of bread.
3
On top of the cheese, layer 2 slices of deli ham for each sandwich, then spread Dijon mustard to taste on the ham.
4
Add 1-2 slices of fresh tomatoes on top of the ham, and sprinkle with fresh basil or dried basil if desired.
5
Finish assembling each sandwich by placing another slice of Monterey Jack cheese on top, followed by the remaining slices of bread.
6
Carefully spread the Parmesan butter mixture on both sides of each assembled sandwich, ensuring even coverage.
7
Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches on the hot surface and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese has melted.
8
Once cooked, remove from heat, cut each sandwich in half, and serve warm. Enjoy with your favorite soup!
Nutrition Information
15g
Fat
24g
Carbs
18g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ultimate Crusty Ham and Cheese Delight?
It is a savory sandwich featuring layers of Monterey Jack cheese, deli ham, tomatoes, and basil on artisan bread, finished with a Parmesan butter crust.
What kind of cheese is used in this sandwich?
The recipe calls for 8 slices of Monterey Jack cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for the crust.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
What type of bread should I use?
You can use 8 slices of any good-quality bread, such as sourdough or whole grain.
How do I make the Parmesan butter crust?
Combine 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 3 tablespoons of softened butter, and an optional dash of garlic powder in a small bowl until well blended.
What is the recommended cooking heat?
The sandwiches should be cooked on a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
How long should I cook the sandwiches?
Cook the sandwiches for 4-5 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Is garlic powder a required ingredient?
No, the dash of garlic powder in the Parmesan butter mixture is optional.
What type of ham is used in this recipe?
The recipe specifies 8 slices of thinly sliced deli ham.
Are there any vegetables in this sandwich?
Yes, the sandwich includes 8 thinly sliced tomato slices and fresh or dried basil.
Does this recipe include mustard?
Yes, Dijon mustard is added to the ham layer to taste.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
Yes, you can use fresh basil or substitute it with dried basil if desired.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 300 calories per serving.
What is the fat content of this sandwich?
Each serving contains 15g of fat.
How much protein is in the Ultimate Crusty Ham and Cheese Delight?
The sandwich provides 18g of protein per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 24g of carbohydrates in each serving.
What are some suggested pairings for this sandwich?
This sandwich pairs beautifully with soups such as Tomato Basil or French Onion.
How should I assemble the sandwiches?
Layer cheese, ham, Dijon mustard, tomatoes, and basil between two slices of bread, then coat the outside with the Parmesan butter mixture.
Can I substitute Monterey Jack with another cheese?
While the recipe calls for Monterey Jack, you can use other melting cheeses if preferred.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick snack?
Yes, it is categorized under Lunch/Snacks and described as perfect for a quick snack.
How many slices of ham go into each sandwich?
Each of the four sandwiches uses 2 slices of deli ham.
What gives the sandwich its crusty exterior?
The crusty texture comes from spreading a Parmesan cheese and butter mixture on the outside of the bread before grilling.
Can I cook these on a griddle?
Yes, a griddle or a skillet is perfect for cooking these sandwiches.
How many total ingredients are needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires a total of 9 ingredients.
How should the tomatoes be prepared?
The tomatoes should be thinly sliced before being added to the sandwich.
How do I know when the sandwich is ready?
The sandwich is ready when the bread is golden brown and crispy and the internal cheese has completely melted.
Should the butter be melted before mixing?
No, the butter should be softened rather than melted so it can be blended with the Parmesan into a spreadable paste.
Is sourdough bread mentioned as an option?
Yes, sourdough is specifically suggested as a good-quality bread choice.
Is this recipe easy to prepare?
Yes, the description states it is simple to prepare and utterly satisfying.
What is the general category for this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as Lunch/Snacks.