Skillet Ham & Cheese Sandwich (Misto Quente)

Ingredients

• 4 slices of sandwich bread (preferably white or whole wheat)
• 4 slices of ham (about 100 g / 3.5 oz)
• 4 slices of mozzarella cheese (about 100 g / 3.5 oz)
• 2 tablespoons (about 28 g) butter, at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons (about 30 g) cream cheese or Brazilian requeijão (optional, for spreading)
• Pinches of ground black pepper to taste
• A pinch of salt (if needed)

Instructions

1. Spread 1 tablespoon of butter on one side of each bread slice (the buttered side will be on the outside in the skillet).
2. Turn the slices over and, on the unbuttered side, spread 1 tablespoon of cream cheese on two slices (optional).
3. Assemble the sandwiches: on the cream cheese place two slices of ham and two slices of cheese, then top with the remaining bread slice (buttered side out).
4. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and when hot, place the sandwiches in the pan.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low, press gently with a spatula and cover the skillet for 2–3 minutes to help the cheese melt.
6. Carefully flip, press again and cook another 2–3 minutes until both sides are golden and the cheese is fully melted. Serve hot.

Tips

• Use medium-low heat and keep the skillet covered so the cheese melts before the bread browns.
• For extra crispness, brush with melted butter and quickly toast in the pan before assembling.
• For a creamier sandwich, add an extra thin slice of cheese or a drizzle of cream cheese before closing.

Variations

• Add thin tomato slices and a sprinkle of oregano before closing the sandwich.
• Substitute the mozzarella with queijo minas for a milder flavor and less oily texture.
• Top with a fried egg over the cheese at the end to turn it into a ham-and-egg toastie.

FAQ