French-Toasted Ham And Cheese
French-Toasted Ham and Cheese offers a savory twist on classic grilled sandwiches, featuring tender ham, melted cheese, and a hint of sweet orange marmalade. Baked to golden perfection, it’s an ideal comfort food for brunch or casual gatherings, combining rich flavors with a crispy exterior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a cup, stir together orange marmalade and dry mustard until well mixed. Set aside.
- Cut ham slices to fit on half of each bread slice; cut cheese slices to fit on top of ham.
- Spread a dollop of marmalade mixture on top of the cheese, then top with another bread slice to form sandwiches.
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- In a 15 1/2 x 10 1/2-inch jellyroll pan, melt the butter. Remove the pan from the oven.
- In a pie plate, beat milk and egg until combined.
- Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Place sandwiches in a single layer in the jellyroll pan.
- Bake until golden brown on both sides, about 20 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- Cut each sandwich in half and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or fresh herbs to the egg mixture before dipping the sandwiches. You can substitute the party rye bread with any bread of your choice, such as sourdough or whole grain. If you're out of orange marmalade, apricot jam can be a delicious alternative. Make sure to keep an eye on the sandwiches while baking to prevent them from over-browning.
Serving Suggestions
These sandwiches are best served hot and can be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a satisfying lunch. Pair them with a fresh salad or a side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal. They also make a great snack for game day gatherings, alongside dips like Pimento Dip or a refreshing fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover French-toasted ham and cheese sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use a skillet over medium heat for a crispy exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French-Toasted Ham And Cheese contains roughly 437 calories, with 7g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (26% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches and store them in the refrigerator before baking. When you're ready to serve, simply dip them in the egg mixture and bake as directed. This saves time and makes it easier for entertaining guests.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
While you can use any cheese you prefer, Swiss or cheddar cheese works particularly well due to their melting properties and flavor. Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist that suits your taste!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers along with your choice of cheese. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meat-free alternative while still savoring the classic flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).