Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwiches With Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel Recipe

Are you tired of the same old boring lunchtime routine? Do you crave a decadent, cheesy concoction that will blow your taste buds away? Look no further than my Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwiches with Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel recipe.

This recipe is for those who want to take their grilled cheese game to the next level. Using the flavorful combination of smoked ham and aged gouda cheese, this sandwich will be sure to satisfy any craving. The pumpernickel bread adds a unique twist, and when grilled with butter, creates a crispy outer layer that perfectly complements the gooey center.

As someone who has experimented with countless grilled cheese variations over the years, I can confidently say that this recipe is a game-changer. So, grab your apron and get ready to elevate your lunchtime experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwiches With Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel
Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwiches With Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel

Are you looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that can be whipped up in no time? Then look no further than these grilled gouda cheese sandwiches with smoked ham and pumpernickel bread!

One of the reasons you’ll love this recipe is because it’s so simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your fridge or pantry, you can create a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich that will rival anything you’d find at a fancy restaurant.

But what really sets this sandwich apart is the combination of flavors and textures. The rich, smoky flavor of the ham pairs perfectly with the creamy, nutty taste of the gouda cheese. And when you add in some tangy dill pickles and hearty pumpernickel bread, you get a sandwich that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences by swapping out the ham for cooked bacon or turkey, or by using a different type of cheese like havarti or aged cheddar. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you could even add some caramelized onions or spicy mustard for an extra kick.

So whether you’re in need of a quick and easy lunch, or you’re looking to impress your friends with your gourmet grilling skills, these grilled gouda cheese sandwiches are sure to do the trick. And with their delicious combination of flavors and textures, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredient List

 This hot, gooey Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwich with Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel is everything you never knew you needed!
This hot, gooey Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwich with Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel is everything you never knew you needed!

Let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients before starting. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 8 slices of pumpernickel bread
  • 4 oz smoked Gouda cheese, thinly sliced
  • 4 oz cooked smoked ham, thinly sliced
  • 4 slices of dill pickles, blotted dry with paper towels
  • 1 tablespoon of butter

If you want to add a bit of pizzazz to your sandwiches, try using aged Gouda cheese instead. You could also substitute cooked ham for baked ham, or add some caramelized onions to your grilled cheese. With these ingredients ready to go, it’s time to cook up some gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.

The Recipe How-To

 Flavor packed Pumpernickel bread? Check. Smoky ham? Check. Melted, savory Gouda Cheese? Check!
Flavor packed Pumpernickel bread? Check. Smoky ham? Check. Melted, savory Gouda Cheese? Check!

Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to put them all together and create the ultimate Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwiches With Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel. Follow these simple steps and soon enough, you’ll be indulging in a savory, mouth-watering treat!

Step 1 – Prep Work

The first step is to preheat your grill or pan over medium heat. While your grill or pan is heating up, take your slice of pumpernickel bread and spread a little bit of mustard mayonnaise on one side. This will add an extra layer of flavor to your sandwich.

Step 2 – Add the Ingredients

A great feature of this recipe is its flexibility. You can play around with what goes into your sandwich, but for this particular recipe let’s stick with these ingredients:

  • Two slices of smoked gouda cheese
  • Slices of smoked ham (thinly sliced)
  • Dill pickles (blotted dry with a paper towel)
  • One tablespoon butter

Start by adding a layer of gouda cheese to one slice of bread – this will act as glue between the bread and the rest of the ingredients. Next, add sliced smoked ham on top of the cheese followed by another layer of gouda cheese. Then, add dill pickle slices on top of all that greatness. Don’t be shy with the pickles – they not only provide tangy depth to this sandwich, but also balance out the richness of the cheeses and smoked ham.

Step 3 – Top It Off

Take the other slice of pumpernickel bread and spread some more mustard mayonnaise on one side. Put it on top of everything else, then use a butter knife to spread some butter on top.

Step 4 – Grill it!

Transfer your sandwich onto your preheated grill or pan by sliding it off from either sides. If you have extra layered filling falling out from either sides just push them back in with spatula while grilling.
Grill for about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Once finished, remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before slicing it in half.

Congratulations! You have successfully made Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwiches With Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel. Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your delicious creation!

Substitutions and Variations

 I’ve found the perfect way to upgrade your grilled cheese game: Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwiches With Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel.
I’ve found the perfect way to upgrade your grilled cheese game: Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwiches With Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel.

Are you feeling adventurous? Switch up your grilled gouda cheese sandwiches with these substitutions and variations.

1. Swap the smoked ham for cooked ham or baked ham. The sweetness of a baked ham pairs wonderfully with the sharpness of the aged gouda cheese.

2. Try using Havarti cheese instead of smoked gouda for a creamier texture. Havarti has a mild flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients.

3. Add some caramelized onions to your grilled cheese sandwich for an extra depth of flavor. The natural sweetness of caramelized onions complements the salty ham and tangy dill pickles.

4. Want to make these sandwiches into a breakfast sandwich? Top the ham with a fried egg for a protein-packed way to start your day.

5. If pumpernickel bread isn’t your thing, try using sourdough or rye bread for a different twist on this classic sandwich.

Remember, the key to a great grilled cheese sandwich is experimenting with different combinations of flavors and textures. Don’t be afraid to think outside the boxed-in taste we are all used to, do what Andrew Everett would have done!

Serving and Pairing

 Hot, fresh, and simple are the magic touch points for this unbeatable Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwich.
Hot, fresh, and simple are the magic touch points for this unbeatable Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwich.

Now that you’ve made these delicious grilled gouda cheese sandwiches with smoked ham and pumpernickel bread, it’s time to think about serving and pairing.

First of all, don’t be afraid to get creative with your presentation – try cutting the sandwiches into bite-size pieces and arranging them on a platter for a fun and casual snack. Or, if you’re serving a sit-down meal, place the sandwiches on individual plates alongside a small side salad or some homemade fries.

When it comes to pairings, you have many options. Since this recipe includes pickles, consider offering additional pickled vegetables on the side – like sliced cucumbers or pickled carrots. A refreshing cold beer, lager, or light ale will complement the smoky ham and rich Gouda perfectly. You could also serve a glass of red wine, if that’s more your style – Merlot or Pinot Noir would be excellent choices.

If you’d like to round out your meal with some additional dishes, consider pairing these sandwiches with a hearty soup or chili. Or, you could go in the opposite direction and serve them as part of a brunch spread alongside a breakfast sandwich made with caramelized onions and havarti cheese – this would be especially delicious if you use leftover baked ham to make the breakfast sandwich.

However you choose to serve and pair these sandwiches, one thing is for sure: they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 The best comfort food? A warm, crispy Grilled
The best comfort food? A warm, crispy Grilled

Now, let’s talk about what to do with any leftover grilled gouda cheese sandwiches. If you have prepared too many and cannot finish them all in one sitting, you can easily store them for later.

To store your leftover grilled gouda cheese sandwiches, wrap each sandwich tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If you need to make these sandwiches ahead of time for an event, I recommend preparing the sandwiches as usual but not grilling them yet. Wrap each one tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to be grilled. When you’re ready, simply grill the sandwiches as directed for a fresh and hot taste that’s perfect for entertaining.

When it comes to reheating your grilled gouda cheese sandwiches properly, there are two options: oven and microwave.

For reheating in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the aluminum foil or plastic wrap from your leftover sandwich and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.

For reheating in the microwave, remove the aluminum foil or plastic wrap from your sandwich and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until heated through.

Avoid microwaving your sandwich for too long as it can become soggy and lose its texture. With these reheating methods, you can enjoy a delicious grilled gouda cheese sandwich that tastes just as good as when freshly grilled!

Tips for Perfect Results

As an experienced BBQ chef, I know the importance of getting every detail right when it comes to creating a mouth-watering dish. To ensure that your grilled Gouda cheese sandwiches with smoked ham and pumpernickel turn out perfectly every time, here are some useful tips to keep in mind.

Firstly, make sure that you use butter instead of oil. Butter has a lower smoke point which means that it is less likely to burn in comparison to cooking oils. Additionally, butter gives the sandwich a rich and crispy texture, which makes it more enjoyable.

Secondly, don’t overcook the ham as it can become tough and chewy. Depending on the thickness of the ham slices, you only need to cook them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they become warm and slightly brown. Once cooked, place them on paper towel to remove excess oil.

Thirdly, keep an eye on the cheese while grilling. Gouda cheese tends to melt quite quickly making it easy to overcook it. A good tip is to use smoked Gouda cheese as its flavor pairs perfectly with the other ingredients in this recipe.

Fourthly, use thinly sliced aged Gouda cheese. This helps the cheese melt better while also providing an extra punch of flavor.

Lastly, be creative with your fillings! This recipe is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your taste buds. You can add thinly sliced onions or pickles, or swap out the smoked ham for baked ham or even breakfast sausage for a twist on classic grilled cheese sandwiches.

By following these tips and adding your own flair to the recipe, you’re sure to impress your family or guests with gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches that will leave them coming back for more.

FAQ

As a seasoned assistant to a BBQ chef, I understand that even the simplest things can have hidden nuances – and that’s why I’ve come up with a list of frequently asked questions about this recipe. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions with my answers and tips.

Is gouda cheese good for grilled cheese sandwiches?

Gouda cheese boasts a delightful caramelized flavor after it has been aged, and it has a low melting point, rendering it an excellent choice for a decadent grilled cheese sandwich.

How do you make a Gordon Ramsay grilled cheese sandwich?

One of the secrets to making a great grilled cheese sandwich is to slice the cheese into “bricks” and then cut them down to fit the bread. It’s important to slice the bread not too thinly, so it doesn’t become too delicate and fall apart.

Before grilling, it’s essential to butter the outside parts of your slices and sprinkle with salt to give a crisp and savory taste. Using a cast-iron pan, add a touch of olive oil, and let the pan heat up over medium-high heat. When the sandwich is ready, put it in the pan and let it cook to perfection.

How do you spruce up a grilled cheese sandwich?

When it comes to preparing a delicious BBQ meal, the ingredients one chooses can make all the difference. Fresh, juicy vegetables with a unique sweet or tart flavor are a personal favorite for our BBQ chef and team. We can”t help but admit that pickles are the perfect choice to enhance the taste of grilled cheese. For a salty, meaty taste, it cannot get simpler than adding deli meats to your BBQ menu.

Is a grilled cheese with ham still a grilled cheese?

In a recent article from the Houston Press, it was discussed that if a grilled cheese sandwich includes meat, it can no longer be considered a traditional grilled cheese.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, these grilled gouda cheese sandwiches with smoked ham and pumpernickel bread will blow your taste buds away! The combination of gooey gouda cheese, savory smoked ham, and tangy dill pickles between crispy slices of pumpernickel bread is a match made in heaven.

And thanks to the helpful tips and substitutions we’ve provided, anyone can make these sandwiches their own. Whether you want to switch up the cheese or add some caramelized onions to your sandwich, go ahead and make it your own.

So before you reach for that plain old peanut butter and jelly sandwich again, try out this grilled gouda cheese sandwich recipe. I promise you won’t regret it. And who knows, you might even start a new gourmet grilled cheese trend with your friends and family!

Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwiches With Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel

Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwiches With Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel Recipe

I found this recipe on the internet and thought it sounded too good! I have posted it here for ZWT6 Germany
No ratings yet
Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 1 sandwich
Calories 357.2 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 slices pumpernickel bread
  • 1 -2 slice aged gouda cheese
  • 2 slices dill pickles, blotted dry with a paper towel
  • 1 slice smoked ham
  • 1 tablespoon butter (more or less to your liking)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare sandwiches as you would for regular grilled cheese sandwiches and enjoy!

YOUR OWN NOTE

Nutrition

Serving: 149gCalories: 357.2kcalCarbohydrates: 31.6gProtein: 16.3gFat: 18.8gSaturated Fat: 9.3gCholesterol: 61.9mgSodium: 1477.9mgFiber: 4.3gSugar: 0.8g
Keyword < 15 Mins, Easy, European, German, Lunch, Summer
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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Shara

Shara @The Bird BBQ

Shara loves to experiment with different flavors and techniques when it comes to BBQ. She has been perfecting her craft for years and loves hosting backyard BBQs with friends & family. She often comes up with creative recipes that her guests rave about.