The Ham & Swiss from Blimpie features savory sliced ham and melted Swiss cheese layered inside freshly baked bread, delivering a warm and satisfying sandwich with a perfect blend of smoky and creamy flavors.
Equipments
- Meat slicer
- Cheese slicer
- Bread knife
- Sandwich press or panini grill
- Oven or toaster
- Cutting board
- Food prep table
- Serving tray
- Gloves
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) sliced ham
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 hoagie rolls or sandwich rolls
- 2 tablespoons softened butter
- 1 lb (450g) sliced ham
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 loaf freshly baked sub sandwich bread
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for toasting)
When assembling your Ham & Swiss sandwich, opt for high-quality sliced ham with a balanced smoky flavor to complement the creamy Swiss cheese. Use freshly baked hoagie or sub sandwich rolls to ensure a soft yet sturdy base that holds all ingredients well. Softened butter can be spread on the rolls before toasting to add richness and enhance crispiness when using a sandwich press or panini grill. Ensure your cheese slices are even and adequately portioned to melt smoothly and create the signature creamy texture. Your Ham & Swiss from Blimpie copycat sandwich will deliver an authentic warm and satisfying experience with the right balance of smoky ham and melted Swiss cheese layered inside fresh bread.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat the sandwich press, panini grill, oven, or toaster.
- Place the rolls or sub sandwich bread on the cutting board.
- Use the bread knife to slice the rolls or bread lengthwise.
- Use gloves for handling ingredients safely.
- Lay out the bottom halves of the bread on the food prep table.
- Place an even layer of sliced ham onto each bread bottom.
- Add Swiss cheese slices evenly over the ham.
- Close each sandwich with the top halves of the bread.
- Optionally, spread softened butter on the outer sides of the sandwiches.
- Place sandwiches in the sandwich press or panini grill; press and heat until golden and cheese is melted.
- Alternatively, toast sandwiches in the oven or toaster until bread is crisp and cheese is melted.
- Remove sandwiches and transfer to a serving tray.
- Slice sandwiches in half if desired and serve warm.
Substitution
When making a Ham & Swiss from Blimpie copycat sandwich, you can substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyere or Emmental for a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor. If freshly baked sub sandwich bread is unavailable, use hoagie rolls or any sturdy sandwich rolls to maintain the sandwich's structure. You may opt for pre-sliced ham if a meat slicer is not accessible, but slicing it yourself ensures optimal thickness and flavor distribution. Toasting the bread with softened butter in a sandwich press or panini grill enhances the sandwich's warmth and crispiness. Your careful preparation on a clean food prep table and using gloves will ensure food safety and a pleasing presentation.
Tips
Ensure your meat and cheese slicers are clean and set to the proper thickness for even layering of ham and Swiss cheese. Always use gloves to handle ingredients, maintaining hygiene and preventing cross-contamination during preparation. When buttering the sandwich exterior, apply evenly to avoid sogginess while promoting a crispy golden crust when toasted. Monitor the heat carefully on your sandwich press or oven to melt cheese thoroughly without burning the bread.
Nutritions
The Ham & Swiss from Blimpie provides a balanced source of protein primarily from the sliced ham and Swiss cheese, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety. Swiss cheese contributes calcium and vitamin B12, which are important for bone health and energy metabolism. The freshly baked bread offers carbohydrates for energy, while the optional butter adds some healthy fats that can enhance flavor and texture. Your meal delivers essential nutrients in a warm, satisfying combo that fuels your body effectively.
Storage
Store leftover Ham & Swiss sandwiches in airtight containers or tightly wrapped in aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Refrigerate at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 3 to 4 days to prevent spoilage and preserve flavor. Your sandwiches can be reheated in a sandwich press or oven to restore the melted cheese texture and warm the ham evenly.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap Swiss cheese with Gruyere or provolone for a nuttier or milder taste while maintaining meltability. Substitute the hoagie rolls with ciabatta or sourdough bread to add a crustier texture and more complex flavor profile. Try spreading Dijon mustard or honey mustard inside the sandwich for a tangy contrast that enhances the savory ham. For a smoky depth, replace regular ham with smoked or honey-glazed ham before layering the cheese and bread.
Allergies
The Ham & Swiss sandwich contains common allergens such as dairy from the Swiss cheese and gluten from the hoagie or sub sandwich bread. Individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies should be cautious due to the presence of melted Swiss cheese. Your choice of bread should be verified for gluten-free options if you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
The Ham & Swiss sandwich from Blimpie Restaurant is popular due to its perfect balance of savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese, layered on freshly baked bread that enhances every bite. Customers appreciate the harmonious blend of flavors and textures, with the Swiss cheese adding a mild nuttiness that complements the salty ham. Trying to make a copycat version allows you to customize the ingredients to your preference and recreate the beloved taste in your own kitchen. Your homemade sandwich can match the freshness and quality of Blimpie's classic, making it a rewarding culinary experience.