Cheesy Baked Ham and Cheese Sandwiches

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare a Baking Dish

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Butter the Bread: Spread the softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.
2. Add Sauce: Spread a thin layer of the prepared sauce on the unbuttered side of each slice of bread.
3. Layer Ham and Cheese: On 4 of the bread slices (sauce side up), place a slice of ham and then a slice of cheese. If desired, sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top for extra cheesiness.
4. Top Sandwiches: Place the remaining bread slices on top, sauce side down, to form sandwiches (buttered side should be on the outside).

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. Mix Topping Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, poppy seeds (if using), dried parsley, and garlic powder.

Step 5: Bake the Sandwiches

1. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the sandwiches in the prepared baking dish.
2. Brush with Topping: Brush the top of each sandwich with the prepared butter mixture.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Let the sandwiches cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve: Serve warm, either as they are or with a side of pickles, chips, or a salad.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Baked Ham and Cheese Sandwiches:

• Bread Choice: Use sturdy bread that will hold up well to baking, such as sourdough or a good quality sandwich bread.
• Cheese Variety: Mix and match different cheeses for added flavor. Swiss and cheddar work well together.
• Extra Crunch: For a bit of extra crunch, add some thinly sliced pickles or a layer of crispy bacon to the sandwiches.
• Storage: Leftover sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Enjoy these cheesy baked ham and cheese sandwiches for a delicious and comforting meal!