Ham & Gruyere Melt | Recipe
This sandwich is one fancy-smancy souped-up grilled cheese. Chopped ham, melty and stretchy Gruyere cheese and flavorful aromatics like garlic and green onions take this sandwich to a whole ‘nother level. It would pair wonderfully alongside Broccoli Cheese Soup or Perfectly Potato soup, but is substantial enough to stand on its own.
A Tip for “Grilling” Sandwiches:
Don’t be tempted to crank up the heat and rush these cheesy temptresses out of the skillet. Butter has a low smoke point (the temperature at which an oil will start to smoke or burn) and in order to properly melt the cheese and achieve a perfectly golden crust, moderately low heat and patience is key.
1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 Bunch of Green Onions, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
2 Cloves of Garlic, minced
1/2 lb Thinly Sliced Black Forest Ham, chopped
2 c Freshly Grated Gruyere Cheese
1/2 c Mayonnaise
1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
1/4 tsp Black Pepper
1 Loaf Freshly Baked Homestyle White or Sourdough Bread, purchased or homemade
3 tbsp Unsalted Butter, room temperature
Add olive oil to a small sauté pan over medium heat, sauté green onions and garlic for 2 1/2 minutes or until softened. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly.
Mix together ham, cheese, mayonnaise, salt and pepper until evenly combined. Stir in onions and garlic. Set aside until ready to use.
Using a serrated knife, slice the bread into 1/4” slices. You will need 12 slices total.
Place a medium-sized skillet over medium-low heat and allow to come to temperature. On a large cutting board or work surface, spread 1 tsp of butter evenly across the surface of a slice of bread. Turn over and spread 2-3 tbsp of the ham and Gruyere mixture evenly across the unbuttered side. Place a second slice of bread atop the mixture and press lightly to adhere. Spread 1 tsp of butter evenly across the top slice of bread. Repeat with remaining sandwiches. You should have 4 sandwiches total.
Place the sandwiches on the skillet, two at time, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until toasted and golden brown. Turn with a wide spatula and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from the pan, cut across the diagonal, serve and enjoy.
Makes 6 Sandwiches
Would pair well with:
