The grilled cheese sandwich is a classic comfort food that has been a staple in many households for generations. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. One way to take this classic dish to the next level is by adding ham to the mix. The salty, savory flavor of ham pairs perfectly with the melted cheese and crispy bread, creating a match made in heaven. In this article, we’ll show you how to make the ultimate grilled cheese sandwich with ham.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right ingredients. Here are some tips to help you select the best bread, cheese, ham, and condiments for your grilled cheese sandwich:
Bread
The bread is the foundation of a great grilled cheese sandwich. You want a bread that’s sturdy enough to hold the filling, yet soft and fluffy on the inside. Here are some popular bread options for grilled cheese:
- Sourdough: This bread has a tangy, slightly sour flavor that pairs well with the richness of the cheese and ham.
- Ciabatta: This Italian bread has a light, airy texture and a slightly crispy crust that adds texture to the sandwich.
- Challah: This bread has a rich, buttery flavor and a soft, fluffy texture that works well with the melted cheese.
What to Avoid
- White bread: While white bread can work in a pinch, it’s often too soft and lacks the texture and flavor of other bread options.
- Whole wheat bread: While whole wheat bread is a healthier option, it can be too dense and heavy for a grilled cheese sandwich.
Cheese
The cheese is the star of the show in a grilled cheese sandwich. You want a cheese that melts well and has a rich, creamy flavor. Here are some popular cheese options:
- Cheddar: This classic cheese has a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs well with the ham.
- Gruyère: This Swiss cheese has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that works well with the savory flavor of the ham.
- Gouda: This Dutch cheese has a smooth, creamy flavor that melts well and adds depth to the sandwich.
What to Avoid
- Mozzarella: While mozzarella is a great melting cheese, it can be too soft and lacks the flavor of other cheese options.
- Feta: While feta is a great addition to many dishes, it’s often too salty and crumbly for a grilled cheese sandwich.
Ham
The ham adds a salty, savory flavor to the sandwich. Here are some popular ham options:
- Black Forest ham: This German ham has a rich, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the cheese.
- Prosciutto: This Italian ham has a salty, nutty flavor that adds depth to the sandwich.
- Serrano ham: This Spanish ham has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that works well with the cheese.
What to Avoid
- Bacon: While bacon can be a great addition to many dishes, it’s often too smoky and overpowering for a grilled cheese sandwich.
- Salami: While salami is a great addition to many sandwiches, it’s often too spicy and overpowering for a grilled cheese.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that we’ve chosen our ingredients, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Buttering the Bread
- Take two slices of bread and butter one side of each slice.
- Make sure to use a generous amount of butter, as this will help create a crispy crust on the bread.
Adding the Cheese
- Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a pan or skillet.
- Add one or two slices of cheese to the bread, depending on your desired level of cheesiness.
- Make sure to use a cheese that melts well, as this will help create a gooey, cheesy center.
Adding the Ham
- Add one or two slices of ham to the cheese, depending on your desired level of hamminess.
- Make sure to use a ham that’s thinly sliced, as this will help create a balanced flavor.
Adding the Second Slice of Bread
- Place the second slice of bread, butter-side up, on top of the ham.
- Make sure to press down gently on the bread, as this will help create a crispy crust.
Cooking the Sandwich
Now that we’ve assembled the sandwich, it’s time to cook it. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Heating the Pan
- Heat a pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Make sure to use a pan that’s large enough to hold the sandwich, as this will help create a crispy crust.
Cooking the Sandwich
- Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Make sure to use a spatula to gently lift and peek at the sandwich, as this will help create a crispy crust.
Flipping the Sandwich
- Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown.
- Make sure to use a spatula to gently lift and peek at the sandwich, as this will help create a crispy crust.
Serving the Sandwich
Now that we’ve cooked the sandwich, it’s time to serve it. Here are some tips to help you create a delicious and satisfying meal:
Adding Condiments
- Add your favorite condiments, such as ketchup or mustard, to the sandwich.
- Make sure to use a generous amount, as this will help add flavor to the sandwich.
Serving with a Side
- Serve the sandwich with a side, such as a salad or soup.
- Make sure to choose a side that complements the flavors of the sandwich, as this will help create a balanced meal.
In conclusion, making a grilled cheese sandwich with ham is a simple yet satisfying process. By choosing the right ingredients and following a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent on-the-go, this sandwich is sure to become a staple in your household. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the ooey-gooey cheesy goodness!
What type of cheese is best for a grilled cheese sandwich with ham?
The type of cheese to use in a grilled cheese sandwich with ham is largely a matter of personal preference. However, some cheeses work better than others due to their melting properties and flavor profiles. Cheddar, Swiss, and Gruyère are popular choices because they melt well and have a rich, savory flavor that complements the ham.
For a more indulgent option, consider using a combination of cheeses, such as cheddar and Gruyère or mozzarella and Parmesan. This will add depth and complexity to the sandwich. Avoid using cheeses that are too soft or too hard, as they may not melt properly or may be difficult to bite into.
What type of ham is best for a grilled cheese sandwich?
The type of ham to use in a grilled cheese sandwich is also a matter of personal preference. However, some types of ham work better than others due to their texture and flavor. Thinly sliced ham, such as prosciutto or serrano ham, is a good choice because it is easy to bite into and has a delicate flavor.
For a more robust option, consider using a thicker-cut ham, such as Black Forest or country ham. This will add a heartier texture and a more pronounced flavor to the sandwich. Avoid using ham that is too salty or too dry, as it may overpower the other ingredients in the sandwich.
What type of bread is best for a grilled cheese sandwich with ham?
The type of bread to use in a grilled cheese sandwich with ham is crucial because it provides the foundation for the sandwich. Look for a bread that is sturdy enough to hold the filling, yet soft and tender enough to provide a comfortable bite. Sourdough, challah, and ciabatta are good choices because they have a slightly chewy texture and a mild flavor.
Avoid using bread that is too dense or too crumbly, as it may fall apart when grilled. Also, avoid using bread that is too lightly textured, as it may not provide enough structure for the sandwich. Consider using a bread that is specifically designed for grilled cheese sandwiches, such as a grilled cheese bread or a panini bread.
How do I assemble the grilled cheese sandwich with ham?
Assembling the grilled cheese sandwich with ham is a straightforward process. Start by buttering one side of two slices of bread. Then, place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Next, add a slice of cheese, a few slices of ham, and another slice of cheese. Finally, place the second slice of bread, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
Make sure to assemble the sandwich carefully, as the ingredients can shift around during grilling. Also, make sure to use a gentle touch when placing the second slice of bread on top of the filling, as you don’t want to press down too hard and squeeze out the cheese and ham.
How do I grill the cheese sandwich with ham?
Grilling the cheese sandwich with ham is a matter of cooking it until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Place the skillet or griddle over medium heat and cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is starting to melt. Then, carefully flip the sandwich over and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown.
Make sure to cook the sandwich at a medium heat, as high heat can burn the bread before the cheese is melted. Also, make sure to cook the sandwich for a long enough time, as undercooked cheese and ham can be unpleasant to eat.
Can I add other ingredients to the grilled cheese sandwich with ham?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the grilled cheese sandwich with ham to give it more flavor and texture. Some popular additions include sliced apples or pears, caramelized onions, and fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary. You can also add some spice with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
When adding other ingredients, make sure to balance them with the cheese and ham. You don’t want to overpower the sandwich with too many flavors or textures. Also, make sure to add the ingredients in a way that makes sense, such as placing the sliced apples or pears on top of the cheese or ham.
How do I serve the grilled cheese sandwich with ham?
Serving the grilled cheese sandwich with ham is a matter of presenting it in a way that is appealing and appetizing. Consider cutting the sandwich in half or into quarters, depending on the size and the number of people you are serving. You can also serve the sandwich with a side of soup, salad, or chips to round out the meal.
Make sure to serve the sandwich immediately after grilling, as it is best served hot and fresh. You can also consider serving the sandwich with a dipping sauce, such as a tomato soup or a spicy mustard, to add an extra layer of flavor.