Ham and Egg Salad Sandwiches: The Ultimate Recipe Guide

Ham and egg salad sandwiches: the quintessential comfort food that evokes memories of sunny picnics and effortless lunches. But don’t let its simplicity fool you; this classic combination is a culinary powerhouse, delivering a satisfying blend of creamy, savory, and subtly sweet flavors that’s hard to resist. I remember my grandmother always making these for our family gatherings, and they were always the first thing to disappear!

While the exact origins of the ham and egg salad sandwich are a bit hazy, the concept of combining chopped eggs and meat with mayonnaise dates back centuries. It’s a testament to the resourcefulness of cooks throughout history, who sought to transform simple ingredients into delicious and nourishing meals. The sandwich itself, as we know it, gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming a staple in lunchboxes and tea rooms across America and Europe.

What makes ham and egg salad sandwiches so beloved? It’s the perfect marriage of textures – the soft, yielding bread, the creamy egg salad, and the slightly salty, chewy ham. The taste is equally appealing, a harmonious blend of savory, rich, and slightly tangy notes. Plus, let’s be honest, they’re incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying lunch, a crowd-pleasing party snack, or a nostalgic taste of home, this recipe is sure to deliver.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Ham and Egg Salad:
• 12 large eggs
• 1 pound cooked ham, finely diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (I prefer full-fat for the best flavor and texture)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (adds a nice tang!)
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish (optional, but I love the sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• For the Sandwiches:
• 1 loaf of your favorite bread (I like sourdough or brioche)
• Softened butter, for spreading (optional)
• Lettuce leaves (optional, for added freshness)
• Tomato slices (optional, for added flavor)

Preparing the Eggs:

1. Hard-Boil the Eggs: Place the eggs in a large saucepan and cover them with cold water. The water should be about an inch above the eggs. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, remove the pan from the heat, cover it with a lid, and let it sit for 12-14 minutes. The exact time will depend on how well-done you like your yolks. I prefer mine to be fully cooked but still slightly creamy.
2. Cool the Eggs: After 12-14 minutes, immediately drain the hot water and run cold water over the eggs until they are cool enough to handle. This stops the cooking process and makes them easier to peel. You can also place them in an ice bath for a few minutes.
3. Peel the Eggs: Gently tap each egg all over to crack the shell. Start peeling from the larger end of the egg, where there’s usually an air pocket. Rinse the egg under cold water as you peel to help remove any stubborn shell fragments.
4. Chop the Eggs: Once all the eggs are peeled, chop them into small, even pieces. You can use an egg slicer for this, or simply chop them with a knife. I like to chop them fairly finely so they mix well with the other ingredients.

Making the Ham and Egg Salad:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced ham, chopped celery, and chopped red onion. Make sure the bowl is large enough to comfortably mix all the ingredients without making a mess.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and sweet pickle relish (if using) to the bowl. I recommend starting with the amount of mayonnaise listed in the ingredients and adding more if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
3. Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). I always suggest tasting the mixture at this point and adjusting the seasonings to your liking. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or mustard depending on your preference.
4. Mix Well: Gently mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the egg salad mushy. You want the ingredients to be evenly distributed but still retain some texture.
5. Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the ham and egg salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to cool down, which I think makes it taste even better. You can chill it for longer, even overnight, if you want to prepare it in advance.

Assembling the Sandwiches:

1. Prepare the Bread: Slice the bread into your desired thickness. I usually go for about 1/2 inch slices. If you like, you can lightly butter each slice of bread. This is optional, but I find it adds a nice richness and helps to prevent the bread from getting soggy.
2. Add Lettuce (Optional): If you’re using lettuce, place a leaf or two on one slice of bread. This adds a nice crunch and freshness to the sandwich. I like to use crisp lettuce varieties like romaine or iceberg.
3. Spoon on the Ham and Egg Salad: Generously spoon the ham and egg salad onto the bread, spreading it evenly. Don’t be shy – you want a good amount of filling in each sandwich!
4. Add Tomato (Optional): If you’re using tomato slices, place them on top of the ham and egg salad. I like to use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
5. Top with Bread: Place the other slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich.
6. Cut and Serve: Cut the sandwich in half (or into quarters, if you prefer) and serve immediately. I like to serve mine with a side of potato chips or a pickle.

Tips and Variations:

• Bread Choice: The type of bread you use can really make a difference in the overall taste of the sandwich. Sourdough adds a tangy flavor, brioche is rich and buttery, and whole wheat is a healthier option. Experiment with different types of bread to find your favorite.
• Add-Ins: Feel free to customize the ham and egg salad with your favorite add-ins. Some popular options include chopped pickles, green onions, bell peppers, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the ham and egg salad.
• Make it Healthier: To make the sandwich healthier, use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of regular mayonnaise. You can also add more vegetables, such as chopped spinach or shredded carrots.
• Serving Suggestions: Ham and egg salad sandwiches are perfect for lunch, picnics, or potlucks. They can be served with a variety of sides, such as potato chips, coleslaw, fruit salad, or a simple green salad.
• Storage: Ham and egg salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving to prevent the bread from getting soggy.
• Ham Alternatives: If you don’t have ham on hand, you can substitute it with other types of cooked meat, such as turkey, chicken, or even bacon. Just make sure to dice the meat into small pieces before adding it to the salad.
• Mustard Variations: While Dijon mustard is my go-to choice, you can experiment with other types of mustard, such as yellow mustard, brown mustard, or even honey mustard. Each type of mustard will add a slightly different flavor to the salad.

Enjoy your delicious Ham and Egg Salad Sandwiches!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another sandwich; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The creamy, tangy, and savory combination of ham and egg salad, nestled between slices of your favorite bread, makes this ham and egg salad sandwich a truly unforgettable experience. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular lunch rotation. It’s quick, easy, and satisfying – everything you could want in a midday meal.

But why is this recipe a must-try? It’s all about the balance. The saltiness of the ham perfectly complements the richness of the eggs, while the mayonnaise and mustard provide a creamy tang that ties everything together. The addition of celery and onion adds a delightful crunch and subtle sharpness, preventing the salad from being overly heavy. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile!

Looking for serving suggestions? This ham and egg salad is fantastic on toasted sourdough, classic white bread, or even croissants for a touch of elegance. For a lighter option, try serving it on lettuce wraps or stuffed into hollowed-out tomatoes. It’s also a great addition to a picnic basket or a potluck spread.

And the variations are endless! Feel free to experiment with different types of ham, such as smoked ham or honey-baked ham, to add a unique twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. For a sweeter flavor profile, consider incorporating some chopped sweet pickles or a drizzle of honey. You can even add some chopped avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats. If you’re watching your carb intake, serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a delicious and satisfying salad.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own! That’s the beauty of cooking – it’s all about experimenting and finding what you love. I personally love adding a sprinkle of fresh dill for a bright, herbaceous note. Sometimes, I even mix in a little bit of crumbled bacon for an extra layer of smoky flavor.

I truly believe that this ham and egg salad sandwich recipe is a winner. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s also a great way to use up leftover ham from a holiday dinner. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and prepare to be amazed.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What kind of bread did you use? What did you think of the overall flavor? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to create even better recipes in the future. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious ham and egg salad sandwich! I am confident that this will become a staple in your kitchen.