Updated on August 27th, 2025
Ham and gouda grilled cheese is one of those sandwiches that feels a little more special than your usual grilled cheese but is still easy enough to make on any night of the week. The smoky gouda and crispy bacon give it a rich flavor, while the thin slices of ham make it hearty without being too heavy. What really sets it apart is the mustard-mayo spread, which has a tangy kick from Dijon, horseradish, and Worcestershire sauce that ties everything together. When cooked slowly over low heat, the bread turns golden and crisp while the cheese melts smoothly, giving you a sandwich that’s warm, flavorful, and satisfying.
Why this recipe works
- Smoky and savory flavor: The combination of smoked gouda, crispy bacon, and black forest ham creates layers of taste that work beautifully together.
- Special spread: The mustard-mayo mix adds tang, creaminess, and a little sharpness from the horseradish, which balances the richness of the meat and cheese.
- Perfect texture: Slow cooking on low heat gives the bread a crisp golden crust while keeping the cheese inside gooey and melty.
- Simple ingredients: All of the components are easy to find and require very little prep, which makes the recipe accessible without sacrificing flavor.
- Great for dinner or lunch: It’s hearty enough to serve as a quick dinner but also works as a satisfying lunch that feels homemade and comforting.
Serving suggestions
- Pair with soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup or potato leek soup is a classic choice and makes the meal feel complete.
- Add a fresh side: A simple green salad or coleslaw helps balance the richness of the sandwich with a bit of freshness.
- Serve for gatherings: Slice the sandwiches into halves or quarters and serve on a platter for casual parties or game day snacks.
- Try with dipping sauces: Honey mustard, spicy mayo, or even a little barbecue sauce can make great dips to add variety to each bite.
- Enjoy hot off the pan: This sandwich tastes best right after cooking, while the bread is crisp and the cheese is still warm and melty.
Ham and Gouda Grilled Cheese Recipe
Enjoy a ham and gouda grilled cheese with smoky bacon and a zesty mustard-mayo spread. A comforting sandwich that’s easy to love.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 Servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 ounce shaved black forest ham
- 8 slices smoked gouda cheese
- 8 slices of bacon (cooked until crispy and halved)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 16 slices soft Italian bread
Mustard-mayonnaise-
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon horseradish
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a small bowl mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, horseradish, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Spread the mixture onto one side of each slice of bread. Top each of the 8 bread slices with ham, bacon, cheese, and the remaining bread slice (mayonnaise mixture side down).
- Spread butter on one side of each sandwich.
- Heat a large skillet to medium-low heat. Place sandwiches into the skillet butter side down.
- Spread butter on top of each sandwich.
- Cook over medium-low heat turning once for about 6-8 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown.
- Turn the sandwiches and cook for 5-6 minutes longer or until golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size:
- Calories: 662
- Sugar: 4.8 g
- Sodium: 982.3 mg
- Fat: 39.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 60.2 g
- Protein: 21.3 g
- Cholesterol: 72.1 mg