Spicy ham and cheese sandwich

If you’ve been looking for a delightful lunch or dinner option, try this ham and cheese sandwich with a spicy twist for an explosion of flavors that will satisfy your cravings!

When it comes to classic sandwiches, the ham and cheese sandwich stands out as a perennial favorite. Loved for its simplicity yet versatile enough to carry a range of flavors, this humble sandwich is comfort food at its best. Here, we’re taking it up a notch by adding a bit of spice and some other ingredients to make it the spicy sandwich that you’ll crave over and over again.

The combination of savory ham and melted cheddar cheese nestled between a toasted multigrain bun provides a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Add to that the crunch from fresh lettuce, the tanginess of pickled red chili peppers, and the subtle sweetness of tomato paste, and you have a ham and cheese sandwich that’s not just a meal, but an experience. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for both busy weekdays and relaxed weekends.

How to make ham and cheese sandwich with a spicy kick

Ingredients you need

To create this delectable sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Multigrain Bun: Provides a nutty flavor and hearty texture that complements the fillings.
• Ham: Choose thinly sliced ham for its smoky and savory profile.
• Cheddar Cheese: The sharp yet creamy cheddar cheese transforms this sandwich into a gooey delight once melted.
• Pickled Red Chili Pepper: Adds a spicy kick that enhances all other flavors. Chop these finely for an even distribution.
• Lettuce: Offers a crisp freshness that balances the richness of the ham and cheese.
• Tomato Paste: Gives a subtle sweetness and moisture, binding the ingredients together.
• Parsley: Adds a fresh, herby note that lifts the overall flavor profile.

Substitutes

You can easily customize this ham cheese sandwich with some swaps:

• Bun: Feel free to use whole wheat, sourdough, or even a brioche or hamburger bun.
• Cheese: Swap cheddar for Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack if you prefer.
• Protein: Turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian ham substitute can work well.
• Extra Veggies: Add slices of avocado, cucumber, or bell peppers for added crunch and nutrients.

Equipment

To make this ham and cheese sandwich, you’ll need:

• Grill Pan or Skillet: Ideal for giving your sandwich a perfectly toasted surface.
• Spatula: To flip the sandwich without spilling the fillings.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for prepping ingredients like chopping parsley and slicing the bun.

Instructions to Make the ham cheese sandwich

Preparations

• Slice the multigrain bun in half.
• Chop pickled red chili pepper
• Wash and dry the lettuce.
• Preheat your grill pan over medium heat.

Assembling and grilling

• Spread a layer of tomato paste on the cut sides of the bun.
• Layer the pickled red chili pepper, and sprinkle with parsley.
• Add one slice of cheese, then 2 slices of ham and finish with the second slice of cheese.
• Top with folded lettuce and close the sandwich with the second bun
• Place the assembled sandwich on the pan and press down slightly. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bun is golden brown and the cheese has melted.

Tips

1. Prevent Sogginess: If packing for later, keep the lettuce separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.
2. Even Cooking: Press down on the sandwich lightly with a spatula while grilling for a more even cook and better ingredients adhesion.
3. Extra Flavor: Rub a garlic clove on the toasted bun for a subtle garlic flavor that enhances the overall taste without overpowering it.

Recipe Variations

• Italian Ham and Cheese: Substitute regular ham with prosciutto and add a layer of pesto for an Italian twist.
• BBQ Ham and Cheese: Replace the tomato paste with BBQ sauce and add a sprinkle of red onions.

What to Serve With

• Sweet Potato Wedges: Crispy and flavorful, these wedges are the perfect companion.
• Fresh salad: A refreshing, crunchy side salad that pairs beautifully with the richness of the sandwich.
• Pickled cucumbers: These tangy pickles cut through the richness of the sandwich and add a burst of flavor.
• Fried zucchini in garlic vinegar sauce: A unique and tasty side dish that brings a tangy and garlicky kick.

More Sandwich Recipes You’ll Enjoy

• Vegetarian pita sandwich
• Teriyaki chicken burger
• Chicken parmesan sliders
• Philly cheesestake Sloppy Joe
• Omelet sandwich
• Pork apple burger
• Turkey panini with pesto and mozzarella
• Italian muffuletta sliders

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Spicy ham and cheese sandwich

Enjoy a delightful ham and cheese sandwich with a spicy twist filled with an explosion of flavors that'll satisfy your cravings!

Prep Time5 minutes mins

Cook Time6 minutes mins

Total Time11 minutes mins

Course: Dinner, Main Course, sandwich

Cuisine: American

Keyword: ham dna cheese sandwich, spicy sandwich

Servings: 1

Calories: 428kcal

Author: Petro Neagu

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going into sleep mode

Ingredients

• 1 multigrain bun
• 2 slices of ham
• 2 slices cheddar cheese
• 1 small pickled red chili pepper chopped
• 6 parsley leaves copped
• 2 teaspoons tomato paste
• 1 lettuce leaf

Equipment

• cutting board
• toaster

Instructions

• Split the bun in half. Spread tomato paste
  
• Add chopped chili peppers and parsley
  
• Top with a slice of cheese, then 2 slices of ham and finish with the second slice of cheese.
  
• Fold the lettuce leaf so it fits the bun and place on top
  
• Close the sandwich with the other half of the bun
  
• Place in a toaster or grill pan and gently press so both sides of the bun get toasted evenly
  

Notes

If you like your cheese to be melted, place the cheese in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before adding to the sandwich.
You could add some pickled cucumbers if you prefer or have them on a side when serving the sandwich

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 428kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 69mg | Sodium: 1208mg | Potassium: 585mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 3235IU | Vitamin C: 80mg | Calcium: 334mg | Iron: 3mg

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