Baked Ham, Cheese & Tomato Toasties
Description
These Baked Ham, Cheese & Tomato Toasties are an easy, comforting meal that turns simple ingredients into something incredibly delicious. Thick slices of bread are layered with savory ham and melted cheese, then topped with another blanket of gooey cheese, juicy tomato slices, and Italian herbs. Everything is baked until the bread is golden and crisp, while the cheese becomes beautifully bubbly and browned. Perfect for a quick breakfast, lunch, snack, or family dinner!
🧀 Ingredients
- 8 slices thick sandwich bread
- 8 slices deli ham
- 8 slices mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- ½ cup pizza or marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan, optional
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking tray.
- Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice. Place four slices on the tray, butter-side down.
- Spread a little marinara or pizza sauce over each slice.
- Add ham and a slice of mozzarella or Swiss cheese.
- Cover with the remaining bread slices. Spread a little sauce over the top, then generously sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
- Place a tomato slice in the center of each sandwich.
- Sprinkle with oregano, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and Parmesan if using.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the bread is crisp and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- For a more deeply browned topping, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully.
- Let cool for a couple of minutes, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.
💡 Pro Tips
- Use thick-cut bread so the sandwiches hold their shape.
- Pat tomato slices dry before adding them to prevent sogginess.
- Add cooked bacon, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- For an ultra-crispy base, toast the bottom bread slices for 3 minutes before assembling.
