The 12 Best Kinds of Cheese for Ham Sandwiches

Are you looking for the perfect cheesy accompaniment to your ham sandwich?

If so, then you’ve come to the right place.

I’m here to share with you the 12 best cheeses for ham sandwiches.

Whether you prefer a mild cheese or a bold one, there is something on this list that will make your sandwich even more delicious.

So if you are looking for the best cheese for ham sandwiches, then keep reading to find out!

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In a rush? Here is the short answer:

For a delicious ham sandwich, the best cheese to use is Swiss cheese. Its nutty flavor complements the saltiness of the ham and its meltability makes it ideal for sandwiches. Other good choices include cheddar, provolone, and Havarti cheeses.

The 12 Best Cheeses for Ham Sandwiches

Ham sandwiches are a classic go-to lunch option, but they can be taken to the next level with the right type of cheese.

Here we look at 12 types of cheese that pair perfectly with ham and will add an extra layer of flavor to your sandwich:

1. Cheddar

Cheddar cheese is a semi-hard, yellow-to-orange cheese with a sharp flavor. It pairs well with ham and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich.

To get the most out of cheddar, try using an aged variety that has been aged for at least 12 months. The longer aging process gives it a more intense flavor and firmer texture.

For added crunch, top your sandwich off with some crispy bacon or fried onions before adding the cheddar cheese slices.

2. Swiss

Swiss cheese is known for its mild nutty flavor and distinctive holes throughout the slice. It’s perfect for adding creaminess to any sandwich without overpowering other flavors.

Look for Swiss cheeses that are labeled “Emmentaler” or “Gruyere,” as these varieties have more complex flavors than generic Swiss cheeses found in supermarkets.

To make your sandwich extra special, add some sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions before topping it off with slices of Swiss cheese.

3. Provolone

Provolone is an Italian cow’s milk cheese that has a mild yet slightly tangy taste when young but becomes sharper as it ages. Its semi-firm texture makes it ideal for slicing thin and layering on sandwiches like ham sandwiches.

When shopping for provolone, look for labels indicating whether it was made from whole milk or skimmed milk; whole milk will give you richer flavor while skimmed milk will be lighter in taste and calories but still flavorful enough to stand up against the ham in your sandwich.

If you want to take your sandwich up a notch, try adding some sliced roasted red peppers to the mix before topping it off with the provolone cheese slices.

4. Gouda

Gouda is a semi-hard cheese with a mild, nutty flavor. It’s perfect for ham sandwiches because it melts easily and adds an extra layer of flavor to the sandwich. To make your ham sandwich even more delicious, try adding some thinly sliced gouda cheese on top of the ham before you add any condiments or vegetables. The combination of salty ham and creamy gouda will be sure to tantalize your taste buds!

5. Havarti

Havarti is a semi-soft Danish cheese that has a buttery, slightly sweet flavor. It pairs perfectly with salty cured meats like prosciutto or smoked ham in sandwiches. Try adding thin slices of havarti to your next ham sandwich for an added layer of creaminess and sweetness that will take it over the top!

6. Brie

Brie is a soft French cheese with a rich, creamy texture and earthy flavor. It’s perfect for adding an extra level of decadence to any sandwich – especially one made with salty cured meats like prosciutto or smoked ham. Try spreading some brie on your next ham sandwich for an indulgent lunch experience!

7. Blue Cheese

Blue cheese is a classic addition to any ham sandwich. Its sharp, tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the salty, savory taste of the ham. To make your sandwich extra special, try adding some crumbled blue cheese on top of your favorite deli-style ham and topping it off with lettuce and tomato. The combination of flavors will be sure to tantalize your taste buds!

8. Pepper Jack

If you’re looking for something a little spicier than blue cheese, pepper jack is an excellent choice. This semi-soft cheese has a mild heat that complements the smoky flavor of the ham without overpowering it. Try adding thin slices of pepper jack to your next ham sandwich for an added kick!

9. Colby

Colby is another great option when it comes to making a delicious ham sandwich. This mild American cheese adds just enough creaminess and sweetness to balance out the saltiness of the meat without being too overpowering. Add some colby slices between two pieces of bread along with some lettuce and tomato for a tasty lunchtime treat!

10. Monterey Jack

Monterey Jack is a semi-hard cheese with a mild, buttery flavor. It melts easily and adds creaminess to any sandwich. Try adding some thinly sliced Monterey Jack to your ham sandwich for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

11. Muenster

Muenster is a soft, creamy cheese that has a mild, slightly sweet taste. It’s perfect for adding richness to sandwiches without overpowering the other flavors. Add some slices of Muenster to your ham sandwich for an indulgent lunchtime treat!

12. Smoked Gouda

Smoked Gouda is a semi-hard cheese with a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with salty meats like ham. The smokiness will add depth and complexity to your sandwich while still allowing the delicate flavors of the ham to shine through. Try adding some smoked gouda slices next time you make yourself a ham sandwich!

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, there are many delicious cheeses that can be used to make the perfect ham sandwich.

The best cheeses for ham sandwiches are cheddar, Swiss, provolone, Gouda, Havarti, brie, blue cheese, pepper jack, Colby, and Monterey Jack.

Each of these cheeses adds a unique flavor and texture to the sandwich, so you can experiment with different combinations to find the one that best suits your taste.

For a delicious and satisfying sandwich, try one (or more!) of these cheeses for your next ham sandwich and enjoy the perfect combination of flavors.