Oven-Baked Ham & Cheese Toasties

Description

These Oven-Baked Ham & Cheese Toasties are crispy on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside, and incredibly easy to prepare. Filled with savory ham and melted cheese, then brushed with a flavorful buttery spread, they make a delicious breakfast, lunch, snack, or quick dinner. They’re perfect for busy days when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Toasties

• 8 slices white or sourdough bread
• 8 slices cooked ham
• 8 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese
• 2 tbsp butter, softened
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Optional

• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan
• Pickles, for serving
• Tomato slices
• Lettuce
• Extra mustard or mayonnaise

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the spread:
   In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.
3. Prepare the bread:
   Spread the butter mixture evenly over one side of each bread slice.
4. Build the sandwiches:
   Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese between two pieces of bread, with the buttered sides facing outward.
5. Arrange on the tray:
   Place the sandwiches on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle a little Parmesan on top if desired.
6. Bake:
   Bake for 6 minutes, then carefully flip each sandwich.
7. Continue baking:
   Bake for another 5–7 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is completely melted.
8. Extra crispy finish:
   For an extra-golden top, switch the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully so they don’t burn.
9. Rest and serve:
   Let the toasties cool for 1–2 minutes, then cut in half and serve warm with pickles, salad, tomato soup, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

• Use thick-cut bread for a heartier toastie.
• Cheddar gives a stronger flavor, while Swiss creates a delicious classic ham-and-cheese combination.
• Don’t use too much ham or cheese, or the sandwich may become difficult to crisp.
• Watch carefully during broiling because the bread can brown very quickly.
• For extra flavor, add caramelized onions or a thin layer of honey mustard.

Serving Ideas

Serve these crispy toasties with tomato soup, potato wedges, coleslaw, a green salad, or pickles. They also make a great quick breakfast with scrambled eggs on the side.

Storage

For the best texture, enjoy them fresh. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to bring back the crispiness.