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Breakfast Grilled Cheese with Egg & Ham - A Satisfying Morning Classic

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Bread: 2 slices of sturdy bread like sourdough, country white, or whole wheat
  • Butter: 1–2 tablespoons, softened (for spreading on the bread)
  • Cheese: 2–3 slices of melty cheese such as cheddar, American, Swiss, or provolone
  • Eggs: 1–2 large eggs
  • Ham: 2–3 slices deli ham, or leftover ham, thinly sliced
  • Seasoning: Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional add-ins: Dijon mustard, sliced tomato, baby spinach, hot sauce, everything bagel seasoning
  • Optional spread alternative: Mayonnaise or ghee instead of butter for toasting

Method
 

  1. Prep your bread: Spread a thin, even layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. The buttered side will face the skillet.
  2. Heat the pan: Warm a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Give it a minute or two to get evenly hot.
  3. Cook the egg: Add a small pat of butter to the skillet. Crack in the egg. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook sunny-side up for a runny yolk, or flip and cook through for a firmer egg. If you prefer a folded omelet style, whisk the egg first and scramble into a neat fold.
  4. Warm the ham: Push the egg to one side of the pan or set it on a plate. Add the ham slices to the skillet for 30–45 seconds per side to lightly brown and warm.
  5. Layer the sandwich: Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet. Add a slice of cheese, the ham, the egg, and another slice of cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
  6. Grill low and slow: Cook the sandwich over medium to medium-low heat for 3–4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula to promote even browning. If the bread is browning too fast before the cheese melts, lower the heat.
  7. Check the melt: Peek underneath to ensure the bread is golden brown. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the second side is golden and the cheese is melted.
  8. Optional extras: If using mustard or hot sauce, carefully lift the top slice of bread after cooking and spread a thin layer. Add tomato or spinach now if desired.
  9. Rest and slice: Transfer to a cutting board and let it rest for 1 minute so the cheese sets slightly. Slice in half and serve right away.