Ham and Cheese Sandwich

A simple, satisfying favorite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Diner-quality at home in 15 minutes.
• Gruyère melts like a dream.
• Mustard cuts the richness.
• Better than any frozen version.
• Endlessly riffable (tomato, pickles, brie, jam).

Ingredient Notes

• Gruyère melts smoothly and adds a nutty, slightly funky note.
• Quality deli ham — slice at the counter, not pre-packaged.
• Sourdough has the strength to hold up to butter and grilling.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Cheddar, Swiss, or havarti.
• Whole-grain mustard instead of Dijon.
• Brioche or Texas toast for sweetness.

Equipment Needed

• Non-stick or cast-iron skillet
• Spatula
• Butter knife

Prep Tips

• Take cheese and butter out 10 minutes early to soften.
• Slice cheese thin so it melts in tandem with bread browning.

Instructions

1. 1

   Gather and prep: 1 ham, 1 cup shredded cheese, 4 slices bread, 2 tbsp butter, 1 tbsp mustard. shred the cheese before you start cooking.

2. 2

   Butter bread.

3. 3

   Layer ham, cheese, mustard.

4. 4

   Grill in skillet until melty. Cook pork to 145°F internal and rest 3 minutes; ground pork to 160°F.

Artsi Pro Tips

• Cheese on both sides of the ham, not all on one side — it holds the sandwich together.
• Soft butter spreads to the edges without tearing bread.
• Medium-low heat is the secret to fully melted cheese and golden crust.

Common Mistakes

• High heat that burns bread before cheese melts.
• Skimping on butter, leading to a pale, dry crust.
• Forgetting cheese on both sides of the ham.

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