Ham and Cheese Toasties in a Bread Basket
This recipe creatively transforms a white Pullman loaf into a delicious "bread basket" filled with savory ham and melted Gruyère cheese. Brushed with a Dijon-butter mixture and baked until golden, it offers a sophisticated twist on the classic ham and cheese toastie, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Equipment
- 1 Serrated Bread Knife
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl
- 1 Pastry Brush
- 1 Cutting Board
Ingredients
Main
- 1 white Pullman loaf unsliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 4 ounces thinly sliced Paris ham or prosciutto cotto
- 1½ ounces Gruyère thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a clean cutting board, carefully slice off the top crust (about ½ inch thick) horizontally from the Pullman loaf.
- Using a serrated bread knife, meticulously hollow out the inside of the loaf, leaving a ½ to ¾ inch thick border on all sides and the bottom, creating a sturdy bread 'basket'.
- In a small mixing bowl, melt the unsalted butter and whisk in the Dijon mustard until thoroughly combined.
- Using a pastry brush, generously coat the inside and outside of the hollowed bread basket, as well as both sides of the sliced-off top, with the butter-Dijon mixture.
- Layer the thinly sliced Paris ham or prosciutto cotto evenly inside the bread basket.
- Distribute the thinly sliced Gruyère cheese over the ham layers inside the basket.
- Place the filled bread basket and the brushed bread top on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-18 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven, let rest briefly, then place the toasted top back onto the basket if desired, and slice into portions for serving.
Notes
1. Quality of ingredients matters: A good Pullman loaf provides the perfect structure for the 'basket', and high-quality Paris ham or prosciutto cotto elevates the flavor significantly. Gruyère melts beautifully and offers a delightful nutty note. 2. Precision in hollowing: When creating the bread basket, be meticulous. Leave a generous border (around ½-inch to ¾-inch) on all sides and the bottom to ensure structural integrity and prevent leaks. 3. Butter-Dijon blend: Ensure the melted butter and Dijon are thoroughly combined and generously brushed, as this creates a crispy, golden crust and imparts a crucial savory tang. 4. Monitor baking closely to achieve a perfectly golden exterior and melted interior without over-browning.