For a low-effort lunchbox hero that still brings big flavor, Serious Eats’ Ham & Cheese Sandwich with Dijon Mustard is a back-to-school win. Stacked with thin-sliced ham, creamy cheese, and a tangy swipe of Dijon, it’s simple yet satisfying. Built on fresh bread and easy to prep ahead, it slips perfectly into a lunch bag or quick weekday meal plan. Whether you’re fueling up between classes or packing for the office, this classic combo delivers comfort, convenience, and just the right amount of zing.
INGREDIENTS
- Four 1/2-inch-thick slices of crusty bread or hearty sandwich bread (see notes)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or softened unsalted butter, divided
- 2 teaspoons (10 g) Dijon mustard, divided
- 8 thin slices ounces Swiss, Gruyère, or cheddar cheese (about 4 ounces; 115 g), divided
- 6 ounces (170 g) thinly sliced ham (about 12 slices), divided
- 8 to 12 pickle chips, optional
INSTRUCTIONS
- Place bread slices on a clean work surface. Using a butter knife, spread 1 teaspoon of mayonnaise or butter evenly over 1 side of each slice. Place 2 slices (mayonnaise side down) into a 12-inch nonstick skillet. Spread the top (dry side) of the 2 bread slices in the skillet with the remaining mayonnaise or butter.
- Place 2 slices (about 1 ounce) of the cheese in an even layer on each bread slice in the skillet. (Cut and/or layer cheese if needed to avoid cheese draping off the sides of the bread.) Top with the ham and pickle chips (if using), divided evenly between the 2 slices. Top with the remaining cheese ( 2 slices per sandwich). Spread 1 teaspoon of mayonnaise evenly over the dry side of the remaining 2 bread slices, then spread with mustard. Close each sandwich with the remaining bread slices, mustard side down. Using a spatula, press firmly to adhere
- Heat the skillet over medium heat and cook until the bread is golden brown on the bottom, 4 to 6 minutes. Using 2 spatulas, flip the sandwiches. Set an empty large Dutch oven or other heavy skillet or cooking weight directly on top of sandwiches, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is melted, 2 to 4 minutesSerious
- Using a spatula, transfer sandwiches to a wire rack and let sit for 5 minutes. Transfer sandwiches to a cutting board, cut in half and serve warm.
