Southwest Ham and Cheese

Add a bold twist to your classic sandwich repertoire with this Southwest Ham and Cheese recipe, a tantalizing blend of smoky, creamy, and zesty flavors. Featuring layers of tender cooked ham, melty pepper jack cheese, and a vibrant avocado-lime spread, this upgraded grilled cheese is packed with Southwest-inspired flair. A touch of smoked paprika and ground cumin enhances every bite, while optional jalapeños add a fiery kick for spice enthusiasts. Toasted to perfection on golden sourdough bread with a buttery crisp finish, this sandwich delivers crave-worthy texture and bold taste. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an effortless yet gourmet meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and watch it disappear!

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 6 slices cooked ham
• 4 slices pepper jack cheese
• 1 small avocado
• 1 small lime
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small jalapeño (optional)
• 0.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 0.25 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Mash the avocado in a bowl until smooth. Squeeze the juice of the lime into the mashed avocado and stir to combine. Set aside.

Step 2

If using jalapeño, finely dice it and set aside.

Step 3

Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of each slice of sourdough bread.

Step 4

Sprinkle smoked paprika and ground cumin evenly over the mayonnaise layer on each slice of bread.

Step 5

On the non-mayonnaise side of two slices of bread, layer three slices of ham and two slices of pepper jack cheese.

Step 6

Add a layer of the mashed avocado mixture on top of the cheese, spreading it evenly.

Step 7

Optional: Sprinkle the diced jalapeño over the mashed avocado for added heat.

Step 8

Top with the remaining slices of bread, mayonnaise side facing outward.

Step 9

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt completely.

Step 10

Place the sandwiches in the skillet, cooking one at a time if necessary. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.

Step 11

Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet as needed when flipping or starting the second sandwich.

Step 12

Once cooked through, remove from the skillet and let the sandwiches cool slightly. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired.

Step 13

Slice in half and serve immediately. Enjoy your Southwest Ham and Cheese sandwich!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(749.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1764.3

Total Fat 107.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 41.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.2g
Cholesterol 333.0mg	0%
Sodium 3949.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 125.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.4g	0%
Total Sugars 6.4g
Protein 89.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 943.0mg	0%
Iron 7.5mg	0%
Potassium 1384.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 52.9%

Protein: 19.6%

Carbs: 27.5%