The Ham and Cheddar Melt from Honey Baked Ham features smoky honey-glazed ham layered with sharp cheddar cheese, melted to perfection on toasted artisan bread, delivering a savory and satisfying blend of gooey and crispy textures.
Equipments
- Oven or Panini Press
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Bread knife
- Spatula
- Baking sheet or skillet
- Cheese grater (if shredding cheddar)
- Butter knife
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) honey-glazed ham
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices artisan bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 oz (225g) honey-glazed ham
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices artisan bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Use high-quality honey-glazed ham to replicate the distinct smoky sweetness that defines the Ham and Cheddar Melt from Honey Baked Ham. Sharp cheddar cheese delivers the necessary bold flavor and melts evenly, creating a gooey texture that contrasts with the artisan bread's crispiness. Artisan bread with a sturdy crust ensures the sandwich maintains structure and enhances the overall texture when toasted. Unsalted butter is essential for spreading evenly on the bread, promoting a golden, crispy finish without overpowering the sandwich's flavor. Your copycat Ham and Cheddar Melt achieves an authentic balance of smoky, sharp, and buttery notes when these key ingredients are carefully selected and prepared.
Instructions
- Preheat oven or panini press.
- Place bread slices on cutting board.
- Butter one side of each bread slice using butter knife.
- Layer honey-glazed ham and cheddar cheese between two slices of bread, buttered side out.
- Repeat for second sandwich.
- Place sandwiches on baking sheet (if using oven) or directly on panini press/skillet.
- Toast in oven or grill in skillet/panini press until bread is golden and cheese is melted, flipping if necessary.
- Remove from heat.
- Slice sandwiches in half with bread knife.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Ham and Cheddar Melt copycat recipe uses honey-glazed ham and sharp cheddar cheese to replicate the savory, smoky flavor and gooey texture of the original Honey Baked Ham sandwich. You can substitute the artisan bread with sourdough or whole wheat bread if preferred, as they provide a sturdy base and crisp crust similar to artisan varieties. If sharp cheddar is unavailable, aged gouda or Swiss cheese can offer a comparable melt and flavor profile. When melting the sandwich, an oven or panini press both work well, but a skillet allows more control over the crispiness of the bread. Butter spread evenly on the bread is crucial to achieve a golden-brown crust, so make sure your butter is softened for even application.
Tips
Ensure the butter is spread evenly on the bread's outer sides to achieve a crispy, golden crust. When layering honey-glazed ham and sharp cheddar, distribute the ham evenly to prevent uneven melting or sliding during cooking. Preheat your oven or panini press thoroughly to ensure the cheese melts fully while the bread toasts perfectly. Slice your sandwich carefully with a bread knife to maintain its structure and avoid spilling gooey cheese.
Nutritions
The Ham and Cheddar Melt provides a balanced source of protein from 8 ounces of honey-glazed ham, supporting muscle maintenance and repair. Sharp cheddar cheese contributes calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health, while also adding healthy fats that enhance satiety. Artisan bread offers carbohydrates to fuel your energy needs, and the use of unsalted butter adds flavor with minimal sodium. Your meal delivers a satisfying mix of macronutrients that can fit well into a nutritious diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Storage
Store your Ham and Cheddar Melt sandwiches in an airtight container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Refrigerate within two hours after cooking to prevent bacterial growth, and consume within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and safety. Reheat in an oven or panini press to restore the melty cheese and crispy bread texture before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the artisan bread with sourdough or rye for a different flavor profile that complements the smoky ham. Instead of sharp cheddar, try using Gruyere or smoked gouda to add a richer taste and creamier melt. For a crispier exterior, brush the buttered bread with a mixture of garlic powder and paprika before toasting. Using a panini press will give your sandwich evenly melted cheese and distinct grill marks, enhancing both texture and presentation.
Allergies
The Ham and Cheddar Melt contains common allergens such as dairy from the sharp cheddar cheese and butter, as well as gluten from the artisan bread. If you have allergies to milk proteins or wheat, consuming this sandwich may trigger allergic reactions. It's important to verify ingredient lists and consult with a healthcare professional if you have sensitivities to these components.
Why this recipe?
The Ham and Cheddar Melt from Honey Baked Ham restaurant is beloved for its perfectly balanced flavors, featuring savory, tender honey-glazed ham paired with sharp, melted cheddar cheese on toasted bread. The combination creates a rich, satisfying taste profile that appeals to lovers of classic deli sandwiches. You will appreciate the ease of making this copycat recipe at home, allowing you to recreate a warm, comforting meal without the wait or cost of dining out. Crafting your own version provides control over ingredient quality and portion size, enhancing both flavor and nutritional value.