Description
This smoked ham and cheese grilled cheese melt combines crispy golden bread, melty cheese, and smoky ham for an easy comfort food lunch that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. The optional honey mustard sriracha sauce adds a sweet and spicy kick that works perfectly with the rich, cheesy filling.
Ingredients
- 2 slices bread
- 2 slices processed cheese or aged cheddar
- 2–3 slices smoked ham
- 1–2 tbsp mayonnaise or 1 tbsp butter
- Honey mustard sriracha sauce, optional
Instructions
- Spread mayonnaise or butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place one slice of bread, coated side down, into a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add one slice of cheese, then the smoked ham.
- If using the honey mustard sriracha sauce, drizzle a little over the ham.
- Top with the second slice of cheese, then place the second slice of bread on top, coated side facing up.
- Cook until the bottom is golden brown, about 3–4 minutes.
- Flip carefully and cook the other side until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted, another 3–4 minutes.
- Remove from the pan, let sit briefly, then slice and serve with a pickle on the side.
Notes
My preference is always to use mayo instead of butter because it gives the bread a crisp, evenly golden texture without making it feel greasy.
The honey mustard sriracha sauce adds a sweet and spicy flavor that pairs really well with smoked ham.
Layering the ham between the cheese slices helps hold everything together and keeps the sandwich from getting messy.
Processed cheese melts smooth and creamy, while aged cheddar gives a sharper flavor.
Technically, adding ham makes this a melt rather than a classic grilled cheese, but it still has all the same cozy comfort food vibes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American