Photo credit: © Eatwell101.comWhat’s your favorite type of sandwich? Personally I’m fond of mozarella and prosciutto panini, but for rainy-day lunches, this hearty baked ham and cheese sandwich with a creamy filling flecked with shallot freshness is definitely the way to go. Melted at the perfection under the broiler this quick dish is easy to put together and makes an unexpected dinner the whole family will enjoy. Trust me, this recipe deserves the ultimate comfort food status!
Ingredient list for the baked ham & cheese sandwiches
Makes 6 sandwiches:
- 12 slice white sandwich bread
- 3 slices of ham, cut in half
- 3/4 cup (20cl) of heavy cream
- 1 1/4 cups (150g) grated Gruyere cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper, salt
- A finely chopped shallot (or 1 tablespoon of fine dried shallot soup)
- Oregano
- A large log of goat cheese, about 6 oz (170g)
Cooking Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C).
2. Make 6 slices of goat cheese and keep aside.
3. In a bowl, combine heavy cream and grated Gruyere. Add the minced shallot, season to taste and mix.
4. Coat a first bread slice with this mixture, then place a half slice of ham on top, then a dollop of the cream preparation in the center and top with the last slice of bread.
5. Spread the remaining shallot cream on top of the bread. Place a slice of goat cheese on top and sprinkle with oregano. Repeat the same process for the other sandwiches, and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake in the oven at 390°F (200°C) until browned on top, count about 15/20 minutes. A the end of cooking, you can turn on the broiler and broil for 2 to 3 minutes or until the topping is bubbly and lightly browned. Serve hot with a green salad.
Tip: Try making these with slices of Challah bread instead of white bread; its sweet note compliments goat cheese perfectly.
(Picture by Nina Palmer)
