Ham And Cheese Recipe

Assemble

Lay out the 4 slices of bread on a clean surface. If using mustard and/or mayonnaise, spread about 1 teaspoon of each on the interior side of both bottom slices (adjust to taste).

Layer ham and cheese

On each bottom slice of bread, place 4 slices of ham folded if large so they fit and create an even layer. Top the ham with 1 slice of cheddar cheese per sandwich (2 sandwiches total). If using tomato or pickle chips, add them on top of the cheese. Season lightly with about 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper per sandwich if desired.

Close and butter

Place the remaining bread slices on top, interior sides down. Spread about 1 teaspoon of butter on the outside of each top and bottom slice of bread (total ~2 teaspoons per sandwich, 2 tbs total for both if using slightly more). For a golden grilled finish, use the full 2 tbs divided across both sandwiches.

Grill the sandwich

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat (about 325–350°F / moderate). Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook 3–4 minutes on the first side without pressing, until the bottom is golden brown. Carefully flip and cook the second side an additional 3–4 minutes until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted. If the bread browns before the cheese melts, reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pan with a lid for 1–2 minutes to help melt the cheese without burning the bread.

Rest and serve

Remove sandwiches from the pan and let rest 1 minute. Slice each sandwich in half on the diagonal and serve immediately.

If using Dijon mustard and mayonnaise, spread as instructed in the Assemble step. Add pickle chips and tomato slices when layering ham and cheese. Season with black pepper before closing the sandwich. Adjust quantities to taste.