The Cheese & Ham Toastie from Costa Coffee features melted cheddar cheese and smoky ham pressed between golden, toasted bread, delivering a warm, savory, and crispy sandwich perfect for a comforting snack.
Equipments
- Panini press / Sandwich toaster
- Bread knife
- Cheese slicer or grater
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Serving plate
Ingredients
- 2 slices white or brown sandwich bread
- 2-3 slices smoked ham
- 2-3 slices (or 1/3 cup grated) mature cheddar cheese
- Butter (for spreading)
- 2 slices white or malted bread
- 2–3 oz (55–85g) cheddar cheese, sliced or grated
- 2–3 slices smoked ham
- Butter or margarine (for spreading)
Choosing the right bread is essential for the perfect Cheese & Ham Toastie; white, brown, or malted bread all work well, with malted offering a slightly sweeter flavor. Mature cheddar cheese provides rich taste and melts beautifully, so slicing or grating 2-3 ounces (55-85g) ensures optimal coverage and melt. Smoked ham adds a savory depth, and using 2-3 slices balances flavor without overpowering the sandwich. Butter or margarine spread on the bread before toasting helps achieve that golden, crispy texture. Your Cheese & Ham Toastie copycat from Costa Coffee will closely match the original's warm, savory character by following these ingredient guidelines.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat the panini press or sandwich toaster.
- Place the bread slices on a cutting board.
- Butter one side of each bread slice.
- Place one slice, buttered side down, on the board.
- Layer cheddar cheese (sliced or grated) evenly on top.
- Add smoked ham slices over the cheese.
- Top with the second bread slice, buttered side up.
- Place the sandwich in the preheated panini press.
- Toast for 3–5 minutes, until golden and cheese is melted.
- Remove sandwich with tongs.
- Transfer to a cutting board.
- Slice in half with a bread knife.
- Serve hot on a plate.
Substitution
The Cheese & Ham Toastie from Costa Coffee copycat menu replicates the classic combination of smoky ham and melted mature cheddar cheese pressed between golden, toasted bread. If you don't have a panini press or sandwich toaster, you can use a heavy skillet or grill pan to achieve a crispy, toasted exterior by pressing down with a spatula. White or brown sandwich bread works well, but you can substitute malted or sourdough bread for added texture and flavor. You can slice or grate the cheddar cheese depending on your preference for meltiness, and if you prefer less smoky flavor, swap smoked ham with cooked turkey or chicken slices. Butter or margarine is best for spreading on the bread to create a golden crust, but olive oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
Tips
Ensure the panini press is fully preheated before placing your sandwich to achieve the perfect crispy exterior and melted cheese interior. Use evenly sliced or grated mature cheddar cheese for consistent melting, which helps distribute flavor throughout the toastie. Butter the bread generously on the outside to create a golden, crunchy crust during toasting. Use tongs to safely remove the sandwich from the press, then slice with a sharp bread knife to avoid squashing your warm, gooey filling.
Nutritions
The Cheese & Ham Toastie from Costa Coffee provides a good source of protein from the smoked ham and mature cheddar cheese, which supports muscle repair and growth. The cheddar cheese also contributes calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health. The sandwich contains a moderate amount of fat from the butter and cheese, providing energy and flavor, but you should be mindful of portion sizes to manage saturated fat intake. Using whole grain or brown bread can increase dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and a feeling of fullness.
Storage
Store your Cheese & Ham Toastie in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Refrigerate for up to 2 days to prevent the cheddar cheese and smoked ham from spoiling. When ready to enjoy, reheat your sandwich in a panini press or sandwich toaster for a crispy, melty finish.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap smoked ham for turkey or chicken breast slices for a lighter protein option. Try using different cheeses, such as Gruyere, mozzarella, or Swiss, to vary the flavor and meltiness of your toastie. For extra crunch and taste, add thinly sliced tomatoes or caramelized onions before toasting. Buttering the outside of the bread ensures a golden, crispy crust in your panini press or sandwich toaster.
Allergies
The Cheese & Ham Toastie contains dairy from mature cheddar cheese, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk protein allergies. The smoked ham includes pork, which some people may need to avoid due to dietary restrictions or allergies. Your risk of cross-contamination with gluten is also present because the sandwich uses white or brown bread made from wheat.
Why this recipe?
Costa Coffee's Cheese & Ham Toastie combines rich, melted cheese with savory ham on perfectly toasted bread, creating a satisfying balance of flavors and textures that appeals to many. The use of quality ingredients ensures a delicious and comforting snack or light meal, making it a popular choice for customers seeking quick, flavorful options. Recreating this toastie at home allows you to customize the ingredients to your taste while enjoying the same indulgent experience at a fraction of the cost. Making a copycat version lets you savor the iconic Costa Coffee taste anytime, enhancing your snack routine with convenience and quality.