Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly crafted sandwich where crispy bacon, sweet caramelized onions, and melted cheese create a symphony of flavors that will transport you to culinary heaven! These Hot Ham and Cheese Sandwiches are not just a meal; they're an experience that combines classic American comfort food with gourmet-level deliciousness. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a crowd-pleasing party snack, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 sandwich rolls
- 8 oz sliced ham
- 4 slices cheese (Swiss or cheddar)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the caramelized onions: Slice the large onion into thin, even strips. Melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add onion slices and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, golden brown, and deeply caramelized (approximately 15-20 minutes). Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the bacon in a separate skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cool, break each slice in half.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the sandwich rolls horizontally, creating a top and bottom for each sandwich.
- Layer each sandwich with ingredients: Start with bottom roll, add sliced ham, caramelized onions, cheese slice, and two half-pieces of crispy bacon.
- Place assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is completely melted and sandwich edges are lightly toasted.
- Remove from oven, let cool for 2-3 minutes, then slice diagonally and serve hot.
Tips
- For the most incredible caramelized onions, use low and slow cooking - patience is key to developing those rich, sweet flavors.
- Choose high-quality deli ham and cheese for the best taste. Artisan rolls can elevate the entire sandwich experience.
- To prevent soggy sandwiches, pat your bacon dry after cooking and let caramelized onions cool slightly before assembling.
- For extra crispiness, you can briefly broil the sandwiches for 1-2 minutes after baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like Gruyère or provolone to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Prep ingredients in advance to make assembly quick and easy during busy weeknights.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 90mg
