Of course! The perfect Grilled Ham and Cheese is about achieving that crispy, buttery exterior and that gloriously melted interior. Here’s an easy, foolproof method that elevates the classic.
Easy & Elevated Grilled Ham and Cheese
Yield: 1 sandwich
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
Ingredients
· 2 slices of good bread (sourdough, country white, or rye work great)
· 2-3 teaspoons mayonnaise (trust me, it’s the secret for ultimate crispiness)
· 1-1½ tablespoons softened butter
· 2-3 slices of hearty ham (Black Forest, honey-baked, or even leftover holiday ham)
· 2-3 slices of cheese (see combo ideas below)
· Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard
· Optional: A few thin slices of tomato or apple (add after assembling if using)
Cheese Combo Ideas (Choose one)
· Classic: American or cheddar for maximum melt.
· Gourmet: Gruyère or Swiss with a little parmesan grated on the inside.
· Sweet & Savory: Sharp white cheddar with a thin smear of fig jam or apple butter.
· Comfort: Pepper Jack for a little kick.
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Spread one side of each bread slice with a thin layer of mayonnaise. Yes, mayonnaise! It has a higher smoke point than butter and creates an incredibly even, golden, crispy crust. On the other side of each slice, spread a very thin layer of Dijon mustard if using.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Place your cheese on the mustard-side (or plain side) of one slice. Layer the ham on top of the cheese (folding it for height helps). Add your second slice of cheese directly on the ham (this acts as “glue” for the top bread). Top with the second slice of bread, mayonnaise-side facing OUT.
- Butter the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add half the softened butter. Swirl to coat.
- Grill the First Side: Once the butter is foaming, place the sandwich in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, pressing down lightly with a spatula occasionally, until the first side is a deep, golden brown.
- Flip & Finish: Carefully add the remaining butter to the pan, lift the sandwich, and swirl the butter underneath. Flip the sandwich. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, covered with a lid or metal bowl, to ensure the cheese is fully melted. The second side will brown faster.
- Serve: Remove from the pan, let it rest for 1 minute (this prevents cheese eruption!), then slice diagonally and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Perfection
· Heat is Key: Medium-low is your friend. It allows the cheese to melt completely before the bread burns.
· The Mayo Trick: The oil and eggs in mayo create a perfect, flavorful sear. You won’t taste it, but you’ll love the texture.
· Press Lightly: Use a spatula or place a smaller heavy pan on top to press the sandwich. This improves contact for even browning.
· Get Creative: Add a pinch of everything bagel seasoning to the mayo-buttered outsides before cooking for extra flavor.
Enjoy your perfect, crispy, melty masterpiece