Description
Cheesy Ham Roll-Ups
Make it hearty with a baguette base for your cheesy ham roll-ups!
Ingredients:
1 small baguette, sliced lengthwise
4 slices of ham
4 slices of cheddar cheese
2 tbsp herb butter
Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions:
Hollow out the baguette slightly and stuff with ham and cheese.
Brush with herb butter and bake at 200°C until the cheese melts.
Garnish with fresh thyme and serve warm.
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#HeartyHamRollUps
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Cheesy Ham Roll-Ups every time.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Carefully slice the small baguette lengthwise, ensuring not to cut all the way through, creating a hinge.
- Using your fingers or a spoon, gently hollow out some of the soft interior bread from both halves to create a cavity for the fillings.
- Spread 1 tablespoon of the herb butter evenly inside the hollowed-out baguette.
- Layer the 4 slices of ham evenly into the bottom half of the baguette, folding them to fit neatly.
- Place the 4 slices of cheddar cheese on top of the ham layer.
- Close the baguette and press down gently. Brush the entire outside of the loaf with the remaining herb butter.
- Wrap the stuffed baguette loosely in foil, place it on the baking sheet, and bake for 15 minutes.
- Unwrap the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is golden and crisp.
- Remove from oven, let cool for 2-3 minutes, then slice into individual portions, garnish with fresh thyme, and serve.
Serving Suggestions
These roll-ups are versatile. Serve them as a hearty lunch with a side salad or a bowl of tomato soup. For a party, slice them into smaller, bite-sized pieces for an easy appetizer. They also make a fantastic, portable picnic food when wrapped and kept slightly warm in a thermal bag.
How-to Summary
In short: Hollow a baguette, layer with herb butter, ham, and cheese. Bake wrapped in foil at 200°C for 15 mins, then uncovered for 5-10 mins until golden and melty. Garnish and slice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely. Swiss, Gouda, or provolone are excellent melting cheeses that would work wonderfully.
How can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the entire baguette, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 2-3 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Can I use a gluten-free baguette?
Yes, just ensure your gluten-free bread is sturdy enough to be hollowed out and holds together well for slicing.
What can I use instead of herb butter?
Plain softened butter mixed with a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or garlic powder makes a great quick substitute.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-hollowing the bread: Remove just enough bread to make room for fillings without making the shell too thin and prone to tearing.
- Skipping the foil wrap: Baking wrapped in foil first ensures the cheese melts perfectly and the bread heats through without burning.
- Using bread that’s too fresh: A slightly day-old baguette is sturdier and easier to hollow out than an extremely soft, fresh one.
- Not letting it rest: Allow the baked loaf to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This lets the cheese set slightly for cleaner cuts.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ham Roll-Up recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. Its combination of crispy bread, savory ham, and melted cheese is timeless. Perfect for a quick family dinner or for sharing with friends, this dish proves that maximum flavor doesn’t require complicated techniques. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious, hearty results.
