Crispy Fried Devon Ham – Perfect Snack or Side Dish

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Ham and Cheese Toastie – The Ultimate Crispy, Gooey, Comfort Sandwich

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The ham and cheese toastie is a timeless comfort classic loved worldwide. With golden, buttery bread on the outside and melty, gooey cheese layered with savory ham inside, it’s the perfect quick snack or lunch option. What makes it truly special is its balance—crispy, crunchy exterior with soft, cheesy, and slightly tangy flavors from ketchup and mustard inside. Whether you call it a “toastie,” “grilled ham and cheese,” or simply a melted sandwich, this dish never goes out of style.

Toasties have long been a staple in Australian cafés, British homes, and even Korean-style convenience stores, where they’re often paired with creative fillings. The beauty of this ham and cheese toastie is its simplicity—it uses everyday ingredients but delivers maximum comfort. The buttery exterior ensures the bread crisps up beautifully in the sandwich press (that’s why the butter must be on the outside), while the cheese melts into the ham, creating a luscious bite. Lettuce adds a touch of freshness, while mustard and ketchup bring tangy-sweet contrast. It’s not just delicious but also versatile—you can swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Plus, toasties are quick to prepare, store well in the fridge, and can even be reheated for an easy grab-and-go snack.

Key Ingredients & Their Roles

  • Sliced Bread → The foundation of the toastie, creating that golden, crispy crust when buttered and pressed.
  • Ham → Adds savory, smoky, and salty notes that balance the creamy cheese.
  • Cheese → The star element for that gooey, melty texture; mild cheese works best, but sharper varieties deepen flavor.
  • Lettuce → Provides crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of ham and cheese.
  • Butter → Essential for crispness; spreads on the outside to prevent sogginess and enhance flavor.
  • Ketchup & Mustard → Add tangy-sweet and slightly sharp flavors, cutting through the richness.






Recipe Details

📌 Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes |Cuisine Type: Western / Australian Café Style | Calories (Estimate): ~380 kcal per serving | Serving Size: Makes 2 toasties (2 servings)


📝 Ingredients:

  • 4 slices of bread (white or wholemeal)
  • 4 slices of cheese (mild cheddar or American cheese)
  • 6 slices of ham
  • 4 lettuce leaves
  • 1 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tsp mustard
  • 1–2 tbsp butter (softened, for spreading)


👨‍🍳 Instructions:

  1. Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice. (Butter should always be on the outside so the bread crisps up perfectly.)
  2. Place 2 slices of bread, butter-side down, on a clean surface.
  3. Drizzle a little ketchup and mustard on the inside (non-buttered side).
  4. Add 2 slices of cheese, 3 slices of ham, and 2 lettuce leaves.
  5. Cover with the remaining bread slices, butter-side facing up.
  6. Place in a preheated sandwich press (or panini press) and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the bread is golden and the cheese has melted.
    • If using a frying pan, press gently with a spatula and cook 2–3 minutes per side on medium heat.
  7. Remove, cut diagonally for the classic toastie look, and serve hot.

Tips & Ingredient Substitutions

  • Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella for extra stretch, Swiss for nuttiness, or vegan cheese for dairy-free.
  • Ham Alternatives: Try turkey, chicken slices, or plant-based deli slices for a vegetarian version.
  • Bread Upgrade: Use sourdough or multigrain for a heartier flavor and texture.
  • Extra Flavor: Add sliced tomato, caramelized onion, or pickles inside for variation.
  • Time Saver: Assemble sandwiches ahead and refrigerate; cook when ready.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ Section)

Q1: Can I make ham and cheese toasties ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them and wrap tightly, refrigerating for up to 24 hours. Cook just before serving for best results.

Q2: What cheese works best for toasties?
Mild cheddar, American, mozzarella, or Swiss are great options. A mix of cheeses gives the best flavor and melt.

Q3: Can I cook this without a sandwich press?
Absolutely. Use a frying pan or skillet, press with a spatula, and cook both sides until golden.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled toasties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan or air fryer for best crispness.

Wrap-Up 

The ham and cheese toastie is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable comfort food. Crispy, cheesy, savory, and satisfying—this is the ultimate café-style sandwich you can make at home. Try it today, and don’t forget to share your version in the comments below!

👉 What’s your favorite filling combination for a toastie? Ham and cheese, tuna melt, or maybe something more adventurous?

🔗 Looking for more comfort food inspiration? Check out my recipe for Korean Street Toast – 길거리 토스트.

Keywords (키워드)

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