Broiled Ham on French Bread: A Mouthwatering Intro
Broiled ham on French bread takes the humble ham sandwich to a bold new level. By crisping the ham under intense heat and pairing it with crusty, airy French bread, you create a hearty open-faced dish that’s both elegant and easy.
Below, we explore seven irresistible ways to enjoy broiled ham on French bread, from must-have ingredients to creative flavor twists.
If you’re ready to transform a simple lunch into a satisfying feast, read on!
What Is Broiled Ham on French Bread?
Broiled ham on French bread involves layers of savory ham placed atop slices of chewy, crusty French bread, typically finished under the broiler. The direct heat caramelizes the ham’s edges, lending deeper flavor and slight crispness.
Some like to add cheese, sauce, or seasonings. The outcome is a hot, open-faced treat that merges the robust taste of ham with the satisfying crunch of toasted bread.
A Classic Open-Faced Sandwich with a Crispy Twist
While many sandwiches might rely on quick assembly, broiling ham allows a bit of culinary flair: searing the ham’s surface, releasing extra aroma, and lightly browning toppings. The result? A warm, melty bite every time.
Whether served alone or with complementary sides, a broiled ham on French bread can become a showstopper at brunch or dinner.
Why This Dish Is Perfect for Any Occasion
- Versatile: Dress it up with gourmet ingredients or keep it simple with standard fridge staples.
- Speedy: Broiling is quick, making this feasible for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Swap cheeses, add sauces, or sprinkle herbs to suit every palate.
Choosing the Best Ingredients for Ultimate Flavor
The Best Types of French Bread to Use
French baguette is the classic choice: its chewy interior and crisp crust hold up well under broiling. Some prefer a wider loaf like pain de campagne for bigger portions or to accommodate more toppings.
- Baguette Slices: Perfect for appetizer-sized bites or smaller portions.
- Boule Slices: If you want bigger, more robust open-faced sandwiches.
Selecting the Perfect Ham: Smoked, Honey, or Black Forest?
Your choice of ham influences the overall taste:
- Smoked Ham: A gentle smokiness pairs well with cheese.
- Honey Ham: Slight sweetness complements tangy mustards or pickles.
- Black Forest Ham: Intensely flavored, with a savory edge that stands out in a broil.
Must-Have Cheese Pairings for Extra Flavor
Cheese often upgrades broiled ham on French bread by adding gooey texture and tangy taste:
- Cheddar: Sharpness melds with ham’s savoriness.
- Swiss or Gruyère: Earthy notes highlight ham’s salty edge.
- Provolone: Mild, melts beautifully, doesn’t overshadow the ham.
Toppings and Spreads to Elevate the Dish
- Mustard: For bite—brown or Dijon.
- Mayonnaise or Aioli: Adds creaminess.
- Caramelized Onions or Sautéed Peppers: Introduce sweetness or color.
- Pickles or Relish: Balanced acidity for a bright contrast.
How to Broil Ham on French Bread Perfectly
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Crisp
- Preheat Broiler: Most broilers have low/high settings. Start on high.
- Prepare Bread: Slice French bread ~½ inch thick for sturdiness.
- Assemble: Spread chosen condiment, layer ham, optional cheese.
- Broil: Place on a baking sheet, 3–4 inches from heat. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Check Doneness: Edges of ham should brown slightly, cheese melted if used.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Broiling
- Placing Too Close: A single inch can burn the top quickly.
- Forgetting to Preheat: The broil effect needs immediate high heat.
- Leaving It Unattended: Broiling is fast—stay nearby to prevent a charred disaster.
How to Add a Smoky Char Without Overcooking
Brushing a thin coat of oil or butter on the ham can help it crisp without drying out. Alternatively, a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder infuses smoky flavor without a grill.
Delicious Variations of Broiled Ham on French Bread
#1: Classic Broiled Ham and Cheese
Ingredients:
- French bread slices
- Deli ham (smoked or honey)
- Cheese (Swiss or cheddar)
Spread a thin layer of butter or mustard on the bread, top with ham, then cheese. Broil until cheese melts.
#2: Honey Mustard Glazed Ham on French Bread
Brush ham slices with honey mustard, layer onto bread, and top with caramelized onions. Broil briefly for a sweet-savory contrast.
#3: Spicy Sriracha Ham Melt
Mix mayonnaise and sriracha, spread on bread, add ham, then broil. For extra heat, sprinkle chili flakes.
#4: Mediterranean-Style Broiled Ham Sandwich
Use olive oil, diced tomatoes, feta cheese, and oregano. The tang of feta complements ham’s saltiness.
#5: Applewood Ham with Brie and Honey
Add sliced apples or a drizzle of honey for a hint of sweetness that counters Brie’s creaminess.
#6: Pesto Ham and Tomato Delight
Spread pesto on bread, add ham, fresh tomato slices, then broil. The herbal note from pesto brightens the salty ham.
#7: Gourmet Truffle Ham and Swiss Melt
Combine truffle oil or truffle cheese with Swiss and ham. The earthy truffle aroma elevates broiled ham on French bread into a gourmet treat.
Pairing Your Broiled Ham with the Perfect Side Dishes
Best Soups to Serve Alongside
- Tomato Soup: Creamy tang pairs well with salty ham.
- French Onion Soup: Echoes the bread factor, and ham’s savor stands up to oniony sweetness.
Crispy Salads That Complement the Richness of Ham
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, sharp dressing offset warm ham.
- Spinach Salad with Strawberries: Adds a fruity note to the meal.
Wine and Beverage Pairings for a Gourmet Experience
- Light Red Wine: Pinot Noir or Beaujolais highlight ham’s savory aspects.
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc for brightness.
- Craft Beer: A golden ale or pilsner complements the bread and ham combo.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Best Ways to Keep Your Sandwich Fresh
If you plan to eat leftovers soon, store each component separately. Keep bread in a sealed bag to maintain crust and hamper staleness. Refrigerate ham and cheese. Reassemble before broiling again.
How to Reheat Without Losing Crispiness
Use a toaster oven or your broiler—avoid microwaves unless you’re okay with a softer texture. A quick 2–3 minutes under the broiler typically revives that crisp surface.
Can You Freeze Broiled Ham on French Bread?
Freezing can make bread soggy upon thawing. Instead, freeze ham or cheese individually. If you must freeze the entire assembled sandwich, consider reviving it in the oven at low heat after thawing.
FAQs:
What’s the Best Type of Ham to Use for Broiling?
Smoked, honey, or black forest ham can work, depending on your taste. Each type yields a distinct flavor profile.
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Sure. Ciabatta or sourdough can offer new textures, though broiled ham on French bread remains the classic.
How Do I Keep My French Bread from Becoming Too Hard?
Watch the broiling time carefully. Also consider brushing with a bit of melted butter or olive oil for moisture.
What’s the Best Cheese to Pair with Broiled Ham?
Swiss, cheddar, provolone, or even a pepper jack for spice. All melt well.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, but assemble just before broiling for best texture. Otherwise, store the bread and ham separately.
How Can I Add More Flavor Without Extra Calories?
Use herbs, garlic, onions, or mustards. These create depth without adding many calories.
Final Thoughts: Elevating Your Broiled Ham on French Bread Game
Broiled ham on French bread merges simplicity and flavor in a single dish. Whether you choose classic smoked ham, a drizzle of honey mustard, or an elegant truffle twist, the potential for creativity is enormous.
By selecting quality bread, pairing complementary cheese or condiments, and watching your broiling technique, you’ll master a quick yet impressive meal.
Try new combos, experiment with flavors, and let broiled ham on French bread bring a satisfying crunch to your table. For an extra burst of flavor, explore our Pesto and Alfredo Sauce recipe.
Happy broiling!