German Grilled Cheese and Ham Pretzel Sandwich

Introduction

This German-inspired grilled cheese and ham sandwich on pretzel bread is the perfect combination of crispy, melty, and savory. Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill, this sandwich achieves a golden brown exterior with gooey melted cheese and deliciously seared ham. The smokiness from the wood fire enhances the flavors for an unforgettable sandwich experience.

Ingredients

• 2 pretzel bread rolls, sliced in half
• 4 slices of Black Forest ham
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp mayonnaise

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oiled paper napkins.
3. Light the napkins to start the fire; the grill will be ready in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sandwich Ingredients

1. Slice the pretzel bread rolls in half.
2. Spread Dijon mustard and mayonnaise on the inside of each bun half.
3. Place two slices of Swiss cheese on one half of each roll.

Step 3: Sear the Ham

1. Place the slices of Black Forest ham on the center grill grate at 1,000°F.
2. Sear for about 30 seconds per side to develop a rich, smoky flavor.
3. Move the ham slices to the flat griddle to stay warm.

Step 4: Grill the Sandwich

1. Butter the outside of each pretzel roll half.
2. Assemble the sandwich by layering the seared ham over the Swiss cheese.
3. Place the sandwiches onto the flat griddle cooktop.
4. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the sandwich when the cheese is melted and the bread is crisp.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice the sandwich in half for easy handling.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect combination of melted cheese, smoky ham, and crispy pretzel bread.

Tips

• Use room-temperature butter for even spreading.
• Grill sandwich slowly for a perfectly crispy crust without burning.
• Remove meat from heat when it’s 15°F below desired doneness.
• Use the hotter center of the griddle for faster grilling and sear.

Variations

1. Spicy German Sandwich: Add sliced jalapeños and spicy mustard for a kick.
2. Apple & Ham Delight: Layer thin apple slices with the ham for a sweet contrast.
3. Mushroom & Swiss: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami flavor.
4. Bacon Lover’s Pretzel Melt: Add crispy bacon for even more smoky goodness.
5. Gourmet Truffle Sandwich: Drizzle truffle oil on the inside before grilling.

Conclusion

With its crispy pretzel bread, smoky seared ham, and melty Swiss cheese, this German grilled cheese and ham pretzel sandwich is the ultimate comfort food. Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame, it’s an easy, delicious meal that showcases authentic flavors. Try different variations to make it your own!

Best Pairings

• German potato salad
• Sauerkraut
• Pickles
• A refreshing Hefeweizen beer
• Sweet mustard dipping sauce