Hearthside Sandwich
A cheesy, flavorful open-faced sandwich with a buttery onion mustard spread, perfect for casual gatherings or a hearty snack with a touch of spice and crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pull off a thin layer from the top crust of the bread.
- Make 6 or more cuts at equal intervals from top to almost bottom of the loaf.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine softened butter, minced onion, mustard, poppy seed, lemon juice, and Tabasco in a bowl.
- Blend the mixture well.
- Save 3 tablespoons of the mixture for later.
- Place 2 slices of Swiss cheese inside each cut of the bread.
- Spread the mixture on each slice of cheese.
- Place the bread on a greased cookie sheet.
- Spread the remaining mixture on top and sides of the loaf.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the loaf is lightly browned.
- Place bacon on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, consider adding cooked bacon or ham between the cheese layers for added flavor. You can substitute the Swiss cheese with cheddar or provolone if desired. To enhance the flavor, try using flavored mustard or adding fresh herbs to the butter mixture. Make sure to slice the bread carefully to avoid cutting all the way through, ensuring a perfect sandwich loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hearthside Sandwich warm, sliced into portions for easy sharing. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a hearty meal. For a picnic or party, consider serving it alongside B~B~Q Meat Balls or Grandma Potatoes for a delightful spread. This sandwich is perfect for gatherings or as a comforting lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the sandwich in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. For best results, avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearthside Sandwich contains roughly 612 calories, with 6g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% of the Daily Value).
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 prepare the sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sandwich in advance up to baking. Assemble the sandwich and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and saves time on the day of serving.
What can I use instead of French bread?
If you can't find French bread, consider using Italian bread or even ciabatta for a similar texture. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the fillings. You can also try whole grain or sourdough for a different flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this sandwich vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit any meat and consider adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. You can also increase the amount of cheese or add different types like feta or gouda for variety.
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).