Smoked Ham from Potbelly features tender, smoky-sliced ham layered on freshly baked bread, offering a savory and satisfying sandwich with a hint of rich, smoky flavor and a soft, warm texture.
Equipments
- Slicer
- Oven
- Bread knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs
- Food prep gloves
- Sandwich prep table
- Sheet pan
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) smoked ham
- 1 loaf freshly baked sandwich bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for toasting bread)
- 1 lb (450g) smoked ham
- 4 sub rolls or hoagie rolls
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Using 1 lb (450g) of smoked ham ensures the sandwich has a rich, smoky flavor characteristic of Potbelly's signature taste. Freshly baked sandwich bread or sub rolls provide the ideal soft, warm texture necessary for an authentic experience. Butter can be used optionally to toast the bread for added crispness and flavor depth. Swiss cheese slices complement the smoky ham with a mild, creamy taste, while mayonnaise and yellow mustard add a balanced tanginess. Your homemade Smoked Ham from Potbelly copycat sandwich will capture the savory satisfaction of the original with these carefully selected ingredients.
Instructions
- Gather all equipment: slicer, oven, bread knife, cutting board, tongs, food prep gloves, sandwich prep table, sheet pan.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice smoked ham using the slicer.
- Slice sandwich bread or open sub/hoagie rolls with bread knife on cutting board.
- Optional: Spread unsalted butter on bread; place bread on sheet pan.
- Toast bread in oven until golden brown.
- Lay out sandwich prep table with ham, cheese, mayonnaise, mustard, and toasted bread.
- Wearing food prep gloves, layer sliced ham onto bottom half of each roll/bread.
- Add Swiss cheese over ham.
- Return open sandwiches to oven to melt cheese, if desired.
- Remove from oven using tongs.
- Spread mayonnaise and mustard on top half of bread/rolls.
- Assemble sandwiches.
- Cut sandwiches as needed using bread knife.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Smoked Ham from Potbelly copycat menu features tender, smoky-sliced ham layered on freshly baked rolls to create a savory, satisfying sandwich with a rich, smoky flavor. If you don't have access to smoked ham, you can substitute with smoked turkey or roasted pork for a similar texture and taste. Your sandwich will benefit from lightly toasting the bread with butter in the oven or on a griddle to enhance warmth and flavor. When slicing the ham, using a slicer or sharp bread knife ensures even layers that stack neatly for an ideal bite. Wearing food prep gloves and using tongs helps maintain hygiene while assembling your sandwich at the prep table.
Tips
Ensure the slicer blade is sharp and clean to achieve even slices of smoked ham, which enhances texture and flavor. When toasting bread with butter, monitor closely to avoid burning and maintain a crisp yet soft interior. Use food prep gloves to maintain hygiene during assembly and handle hot items safely with tongs when removing sandwiches from the oven. Your sandwich will be best enjoyed fresh, so assemble and serve immediately to preserve the melt-in-the-mouth quality of the ham and cheese.
Nutritions
Smoked Ham from Potbelly provides a good source of protein essential for muscle repair and energy, with approximately 25 grams per 3-ounce serving. The inclusion of Swiss cheese contributes calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health, while the freshly baked bread supplies carbohydrates for sustained energy release. Butter used for toasting adds a small amount of fat, enhancing flavor and texture but should be used sparingly to manage calorie intake. You can enjoy this sandwich as a balanced meal option combining protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
Storage
Store leftover smoked ham in an airtight container or tightly wrap it with plastic wrap to maintain its moisture and smoky flavor. Refrigerate at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 3 to 5 days for optimal freshness. Your freshly baked sandwich bread should be stored in a bread box or sealed bag at room temperature to prevent staleness, and toasted bread is best enjoyed immediately or within a few hours.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap Swiss cheese with provolone or gouda to add a different creamy, mild flavor that complements the smoky ham. Consider grilling the sandwich in a panini press instead of toasting the bread in the oven for a crispier texture and melted cheese. Using a grainy mustard or a spicy brown mustard can enhance the tanginess compared to yellow mustard. For a healthier option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt mixed with a little lemon juice for added zest and creaminess.
Allergies
Smoked Ham from Potbelly contains allergens such as wheat in the sandwich bread and dairy in the Swiss cheese, butter, and mayonnaise. The smoked ham itself may contain preservatives like sodium nitrite, which can trigger sensitivities in some individuals. If you have allergies to gluten, dairy, or specific additives, it's important to check ingredient labels and inform the restaurant to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
The Smoked Ham sandwich from Potbelly Restaurant is celebrated for its rich, smoky flavor combined with tender, thinly sliced ham layered on freshly baked bread. The sandwich's balance of savory meat and signature seasonings creates a uniquely satisfying taste that appeals to a wide range of customers. Trying to make a copycat version allows you to recreate this beloved flavor profile at home, offering a gourmet deli experience without the restaurant price. Your homemade Smoked Ham will capture the authentic texture and aroma that make Potbelly's menu item a favorite.