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Spanish Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Manchego and Jamón Serrano

This Spanish grilled cheese sandwich offers a sophisticated twist on the classic toastie, blending the salty depth of jamón serrano with the nutty notes of aged Manchego. The addition of chopped Medjool dates provides a subtle honey-like sweetness that cuts through the rich, savoury flavours, creating a perfectly balanced snack. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-protein lunch that feels more like a Mediterranean treat than a standard sandwich.

Preparing the sandwiches ahead of time and chilling them allows the flavours to meld and ensures the bread toasts evenly. Whether cooked in a panini press or weighted down in a heavy frying pan for a crisp, golden finish, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting and nutritious meal.

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Ingredients for Spanish Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Manchego and Jamón Serrano

  • 45ml butter, room temperature

  • 4 slices firm white sandwich bread

  • 170g Manchego cheese, thinly sliced

  • 110g thinly sliced jamón Serrano or prosciutto

  • 4 Medjool dates, pitted, chopped

How to make Spanish Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Manchego and Jamón Serrano

Line baking sheet with waxed paper. Spread butter on bread slices, dividing equally. Place 2 bread slices on prepared baking sheet, buttered side down. Top bread slices with half of sliced cheese (45g each); top cheese with ham, dividing equally. Sprinkle dates over. Top with remaining cheese, then remaining 2 bread slices, buttered side up. Refrigerate 30 minutes. DO AHEAD: Can be made 8 hours ahead. Cover with plastic wrap and keep chilled. Peel plastic from sandwiches before continuing.

Heat panini press and cook sandwiches according to manufacturer's instructions. (Alternatively, heat heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to mediumlow. Place sandwiches in skillet. Place another large skillet atop sandwiches; place weight, such as large can of tomatoes, atop skillet. Cook sandwiches until golden brown and cheese melts, about 4 minutes per side.)

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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