Baking Ham And Cheese Sandwiches: Timing For Perfection

A hot and melty ham and cheese sandwich is a great meal, whether it's for a party or a quick bite. But how long do you bake it for? The answer depends on the type of sandwich you're making. For a simple sandwich in the oven, it should take around 15-20 minutes in a 350-degree oven. If you're making sliders, these will also take around 20 minutes in the oven at 350 degrees. However, if you're making a larger batch of sliders, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What type of bread to use

The bread you choose for your ham and cheese sandwich is important. It needs to be able to withstand the weight of the fillings and the cooking process without falling apart. It should also complement the flavours of the ham and cheese.

If you're using a skillet, sandwich toaster, or panini press, choose a bread with a flat surface area so that it will have direct contact with the heat source. A rustic round boule is a good option, as it has a larger slice size than standard square sandwich bread and a bit more chew to balance the tender ham and cheese filling. Marble rye or pumpernickel would also work well. Sourdough is another popular choice, as it has a more complex flavour than plain white bread and holds up well in a sandwich press or frying pan. If you're using a skillet, look for slices that are about 1/2-inch thick; any thicker and the bread will be too chewy and distracting from the fillings.

If you're baking your ham and cheese sandwich in the oven, you can use a softer bread, such as Hawaiian sweet rolls or mini sandwich rolls. These rolls will get toasted and crispy on the outside while staying soft and melty on the inside.

For a classic French ham and cheese toastie, try using dark seeded bread for an extra dimension of flavour. Thickly sliced bread will hold up better in a sandwich maker or panini press, and it will also provide a better balance for the rich, melted cheese inside if you're using a frying pan.

Ultimately, the type of bread you use for your ham and cheese sandwich is up to your personal preference. Experiment with different types of bread to see which one you like best!

How to prepare the ham

The ham is the star of the show, so it's important to get this part right.

Firstly, you'll want to decide on the type of ham you want to use. You could use thick, deli-style ham, leftover roast ham, or a honey-baked, glazed, black forest, smoked, or uncured variety. The choice is yours!

Next, consider how much ham you want in your sandwich. A generous amount of ham will ensure your sandwich is nice and meaty, but be careful not to overdo it, as you don't want your sandwich to become too bulky or unwieldy. Aim for around 3-4 slices of ham per sandwich, or 6 ounces (170g) in weight.

Now it's time to assemble the sandwich. Layer your ham slices on top of one another, and then fold them in half. This will give your sandwich some height and make it easier to eat.

If you're using a particularly thick cut of ham, you may want to consider cutting the slices in half or even into quarters, to make the sandwich easier to bite into.

Finally, add a pinch of black pepper to season the ham.

And there you have it! Your ham is now ready to be paired with cheese, veggies, and your choice of bread. Enjoy!

How to prepare the cheese

The type of cheese you use for your ham and cheese sandwich is important. You want to choose a cheese with an assertive tangy flavour that pairs well with the sweet and salty ham. Swiss cheese is a popular choice, with its bold flavour and good melting properties. Specifically, Gruyère is recommended, but you could also use cheddar, provolone, mozzarella, or American cheese. If you want to try something different, you could opt for Alpine cheese or goat cheese.

When preparing the cheese for your sandwich, it's best to slice it thinly. Thin slices will allow for better layering and shaping of the sandwich, and they'll also provide a better mouthfeel. You can use a peeler to shave the cheese, or slice or grate it, but shaving will give you more even slices and reduce the risk of the cheese falling out of the sandwich.

For a ham and cheese sandwich, you'll want to use a generous amount of cheese. Layering the sandwich with plenty of cheese will ensure that it melts nicely and blankets the warm ham.

How long to bake for

Baking time for a ham and cheese sandwich depends on the temperature of the oven and the number of sandwiches being baked. For example, a single sandwich may take 12-15 minutes to bake in an oven preheated to 325°F, while a batch of 24 sandwiches may take 20 minutes to bake in an oven preheated to 350°F.

When baking a single sandwich, wrapping it in foil and placing it on a baking sheet or cookie sheet is recommended. For a larger batch, a baking dish or tray can be used.

It is important to note that the baking time may vary depending on the desired level of doneness. For a sandwich with melted cheese, a baking time of around 15-20 minutes is recommended. However, for a sandwich that is hot throughout, an additional 5-10 minutes of baking time may be required.

Additionally, the type of bread used can also affect the baking time. For softer breads, a shorter baking time may be preferred to prevent them from becoming too crispy or burnt. Harder rolls, on the other hand, may require a slightly longer baking time to ensure they are thoroughly toasted.

When baking from frozen, it is recommended to wrap the sandwiches in an extra layer of foil and place them on a double layer of a baking sheet to prevent overbaking and drying out. The baking time may also need to be adjusted, starting with an additional 5-10 minutes and then checking if the sandwiches are heated through.

What to serve it with

Baked ham and cheese sandwiches are a delicious and comforting meal, perfect for a party or a family gathering. But what should you serve them with? Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:

Chips and Dip

If you're serving the sandwiches as an appetiser, consider pairing them with some chips and dip. This can add a crunchy and savoury element to your meal. Choose from a variety of dips such as salsa, guacamole, or hummus to suit your taste.

Nuts and Fresh Fruits

Another great appetiser option is to serve the sandwiches with nuts and fresh fruits. The nuts will provide a crunchy texture and the fruits will add a refreshing touch to your meal. Go for a variety of nuts like almonds, cashews, and pistachios, and fresh seasonal fruits like berries, apples, or oranges.

Grilled Asparagus

For a side dish that complements the sandwiches, grilled asparagus is an excellent choice. The slightly charred flavour of the asparagus goes well with the melted cheese and ham. Drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper on the asparagus before grilling them to enhance their flavour.

Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be customised to your taste. You can include a variety of vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, and dress it with a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing. This side dish is perfect for a summer picnic or a potluck.

Roasted Potatoes

Roasted potatoes are a classic side dish that goes well with sandwiches. Cut the potatoes into wedges or cubes, toss them in olive oil, and season them with salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs. Roast them in the oven until they're golden brown and crispy. They'll add a hearty and comforting element to your meal.

Santa Maria Style Beans

If you're looking for a flavourful side dish, Santa Maria-style beans are a great option. This dish typically includes beans cooked in a sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, and spices. It adds a hearty and savoury element to your meal and pairs well with the sandwiches.

Black Bean and Corn Salad

For a refreshing and healthy side dish, consider making a black bean and corn salad. Mix together black beans, corn, red onions, bell peppers, and a dressing made with lime juice and olive oil. This salad will add a burst of flavour and colour to your meal.

Homemade Potato Chips

Who doesn't love potato chips? Making your own at home ensures they're fresh and crispy. Slice potatoes thinly, soak them in cold water, and then fry them in batches until golden brown. Sprinkle some salt and your favourite seasonings on top, and you've got the perfect crunchy side dish.

Frequently asked questions