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.

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

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

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.

Spicy sandwich with ham and cheese

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

More Sandwich Recipes You’ll Enjoy

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Spicy sandwich with ham and cheese
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5 from 2 votes

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
Cook Time6 minutes
Total Time11 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course, sandwich
Cuisine: American
Keyword: ham dna cheese sandwich, spicy sandwich
Servings: 1
Calories: 428kcal
Author: Petro Neagu

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

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
Tried this recipe?Mention @easy_peasy_creative_ideas or tag #easy_peasy_creative_ideas!

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about petro

ABOUT PETRO

Hi, I’m Petro, author and founder of Easy Peasy Creative Ideas. Sewist, crafter, avid DIY-er, foodie, photographer, homemaker and mommy to one. I’m an expert at coming up with quick, clever sewing tips, recycling crafts and simple, easy recipes! You can find my ideas featured in reputable publications such as Country Living, Good House Keeping, Yahoo News, WikiHow, Shutterfly, Parade, Brit & Co and more. Thanks for stopping by and hope you’ll stay for a while, get to know me better and come back another time. Stick around for real fun projects! Read more…

5 from 2 votes (2 ratings without comment)

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24 Comments

  1. Delicious, thanks for sharing with Hearth and soul blog hop. pinning.

  2. Amberjane says:

    Sounds delicious I would have that for lunch.

  3. Looks yummy!
    Thanks so much for sharing at AMAZE ME MONDAY!
    Blessings,
    Cindy

  4. morewithlessmom says:

    Wow this looks awesome, I love the tomato paste on it. I haven’t tried that. Thanks for posting. Hello from Inspire Me Wednesday.

    1. Thank you so much and hello back at you :)

  5. Must Love Home says:

    Hi Friend, thanks for sharing at Friday Favorites! I really hope to see you at our next party! Hugs – Christine @ Must Love Home

    1. Thanks for stopping by. I’ll do my best not to miss your awesome party!

  6. Mel Lockcuff (@mellockcuff) says:

    This looks delicious! The perfect breakfast idea. Thank you for sharing at Inspire Me Wednesday. Featuring you in this week’s issue.

    1. Aww, thanks so much Mel, you just made my day!

  7. Caroline (Becoming a SAHM) says:

    Ooh this looks yummy and I am so hungry now! Thanks for linking with #allaboutyou

    1. Thanks so much. You have a beautiful party, love being there!

  8. itsallaboutpurple says:

    all i can say is WOW…i love me a good sandwich!!!

    1. Thanks so much for stopping by. Have a lovely day!

  9. Stephanie says:

    Mmmm…. this looks and sounds amazing! My husband loves spicy food so this is defintiely something he would enjoy. So glad you shared this with Roses of Inspiration.

    By the way, your photos are stunning!

  10. Amanda @ The Chunky Chef says:

    Delicious!! I agree, sometimes you just have to have something spicy :D Thanks for sharing this with us at Friday Favorites!!

    1. Thank you so much, Amanda. I appreciate it.

  11. displacedyinzer says:

    Your pictures are amazing and the recipe looks fantastic! Thank you for stopping by Pin Worthy Wednesday!

    1. Thank you so much! Your party is awesome, love to be part of it!

  12. this looks so darn good…I must try, I think my son and I would devour it. Thanks. Stopping by from #RealFoodFridays

    1. Thanks for stopping by, Karen and for your lovely comment.

  13. organic4greenlivings says:

    Hi Petro,
    What a great breakfast sandwich. Thanks for sharing on Real Food Fridays. Pinned & twitted.

    1. Thanks so much, I appreciate it.

  14. Katherines Corner says:

    this looks delicious my friend. Hugs

    1. Thanks so much Katherine. Have a wonderful weekend :)