Ham & Cheese Hero Recipe

Prepare roll and condiments

Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Slice each hero roll lengthwise, leaving a small hinge if you prefer. Spread about 1/2 tablespoon of softened butter or 1 tablespoon mayonnaise inside each half (total 2 tbs across both sandwiches). Spread 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard on the top halves (total 2 tsp). If using olive oil to toast, brush the outside cut faces lightly with 1/2 teaspoon olive oil each.

Toast roll and melt cheese

Place the rolls cut-side down in the preheated skillet over medium heat. Toast 1–2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. Flip rolls, place 2 slices of cheese inside each bottom half, then arrange 4 slices of ham on top of the cheese in each sandwich. Cover the skillet with a lid or a large bowl for 1–2 minutes to help the cheese melt and warm the ham.

Prepare vegetables

While cheese is melting, thinly slice the tomato into 1/4-inch (6 mm) rounds. Season the tomato slices lightly with 1/8 teaspoon salt and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper, divided between sandwiches. If using lettuce, rinse and pat dry the leaves.

Assemble sandwich

Remove lid and place the top half of each roll (with mustard) onto the melted cheese and ham. Open the sandwich and add tomato slices (2–3 per sandwich), lettuce leaves (2 per sandwich), and 3 pickle slices if desired. Close the sandwich and press gently to compact.

Slice and serve

Using a sharp knife, cut each hero in half on a diagonal. Serve immediately while warm. Provide extra mustard or pickles on the side if desired.