Ham, Copa & Cheese Recipe
Make Ham, Copa & Cheese Recipe in just 15m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Sandwich
Pan-fry / press
Method
Sandwich
- 1
Prepare bread and spread
Bring softened butter to room temperature if not already soft. On one slice of bread, spread 1/2 tablespoon of softened butter evenly over the outside surface (this will be the skillet side). On the other slice, spread Dijon mustard and mayonnaise together (mix them first if desired), using roughly 1 teaspoon of each combined, spreading evenly on the inside surface.
- 2
Layer meats and cheeses
On the mustard/mayo–spread slice, layer the meats and cheeses in this order for best melting and flavor balance: place the 3 oz ham in an even layer, then the 2 oz copa on top, making sure slices overlap but are not piled so thick they prevent even toasting. Add the 2 oz sliced aged cheddar over the meats, then the 1 oz provolone/Swiss. If using cornichons or pickles, place them sparingly on top of the cheese (space 2–3 slices) so they don’t make the bread soggy. Grind the 1 tsp black pepper over the cheese and pickles.
- 3
Close sandwich
Place the buttered slice of bread on top, butter-side up, pressing gently so the sandwich holds together.
Pan-fry / press
- 4
Heat skillet
Place a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-low to medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon neutral oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter to the pan. Let the butter melt and foam but not burn; reduce heat a touch if it begins to brown rapidly.
- 5
Toast and press
Place the assembled sandwich in the skillet, buttered side down. Using a spatula to press or a second pan to weigh it down (or a sandwich press/griddle if available), cook for 3–4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwich and press again. Cook the second side for another 3–4 minutes until golden brown and the cheeses are melted (total cook time may be 6–8 minutes depending on heat and thickness). If the bread is browning too quickly before the cheese melts, reduce heat to low and cover the pan with a lid for 1–2 minutes to trap heat and encourage melting.
- 6
Rest and slice
Transfer the sandwich to a cutting board and let it rest for 1 minute to prevent cheese from running out when cut. Using a sharp knife, slice the sandwich in half diagonally or down the middle. Serve immediately.