If there’s ham in the fridge, you’d better believe I’m making a ham sandwich. The simple combination of ham and cheese is so comforting that it makes me want to call home. (I’m sure my mother would appreciate the call, anyway.)
It can be fun to wing it and make ham sandwiches with whatever bread, condiments and toppings I happen to have around. After all, ham is a versatile ingredient, and delicious ham recipes abound with a variety of different flavor profiles. Sometimes, though, it’s worth keeping a ham sandwich recipe up my sleeve. You know, the recipe with a fancy spread and specific cheese that really make the ham shine.
In case you’re wondering, this is that recipe! Garlic-infused spread, smoked cheddar cheese and hearty whole-wheat bread topped with crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes. Yup, if you’re looking for a ham sandwich that will make your taste buds sing, this is the one.
Ham Sandwich Ingredients
- Ham: You can’t make a great ham sandwich without the ham! If you have leftover meat from an Easter ham or spiral ham, that’s premium stuff to use here. Of course, thinly sliced deli ham is an excellent choice for an everyday sandwich.
- Smoked cheddar cheese: This variant of cheddar cheese has a distinct smokiness that takes a ham sandwich to the next level.
- Whole-wheat bread: We like to use this wholesome bread for sandwiches because of its delightfully hearty texture. If you’re feeling ambitious, make your own whole-wheat bread.
- Garlic-infused spread: Sure, you can use plain ol’ mayonnaise, but this bold spread adds the perfect creamy finish (not to mention flavor!). Mayonnaise brings the richness, and sour cream provides the tang. Garlic powder boosts the flavor to make the sandwich shine.
- Sandwich toppings: Juicy tomatoes keep the sandwich from feeling dry, and the lettuce contributes a nice, crisp finish.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the garlic-infused spread
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream and garlic powder.
Step 2: Build the ham sandwich
Spread the garlic-infused spread evenly over two slices of bread. Layer the two slices evenly with cheese, tomato, ham and lettuce. Top with the remaining bread slices.
Recipe Variations
- Change up the toppings: Add classic toppings like thinly sliced red onion or pickles. Or think outside the box, and experiment with some of these fun burger toppings, like spicy beer mustard or bourbon peach jam.
- Use another cheese: If smoked cheddar isn’t your thing, use another cheese like Swiss, Gruyere or Havarti.
- Swap out lettuce: Add flavor with leafy green vegetables, like earthy spinach, crisp cabbage, peppery watercress or spicy arugula.
- Experiment with bread: The type of bread you use sets the stage for the entire sandwich. Soft breads like white or wheat bread allow fillings to shine, whereas a chewy roll or crusty baguette adds a robust and satisfying texture contrast.
- Make a flavored mayonnaise: If you want to skip the sour cream, try using a Dijon-Parmesan mayonnaise or a herbed mayonnaise with chopped fresh herbs.
Can you make a ham sandwich ahead of time?
If you’re making this ham sandwich for later, leave the tomato on the side in a separate container. It can make the bread soggy, and no one likes a soggy ham sandwich. If you must pack the sandwich in a single container, keep the tomato away from the bread. Nestle it in the middle between the ham and cheese.
Ham Sandwich Tips
What kind of ham makes the best ham sandwich?
The best ham for sandwiches depends on your flavor preferences. Smoked ham has a rich flavor, while honey ham leans into the sweetness. Black forest ham is a popular choice because it bridges the gap, slightly smoky and slightly sweet. No matter which type of ham you choose, try to use thinly sliced ham. It’s easy to layer and won’t be as chewy as thicker slices.
What is the best cheese for a ham sandwich?
Cheddar cheese tastes great on ham sandwiches, but Swiss cheese is another classic choice. Of course, many types of cheese pair well with ham, so feel free to use cheeses like Gruyere, Havarti or Muenster. If you prefer soft cheese, try Brie, Camembert, goat cheese or blue cheese.
