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Spanish Ham and Cheese Monte Cristo Sandwiches

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This Spanish ham and cheese Monte Cristo offers a sophisticated twist on the classic fried sandwich. By pairing the salty, cured notes of Serrano ham with the nutty richness of Manchego cheese, this recipe creates a complex flavour profile that is perfectly balanced by the floral sweetness of membrillo. Encased in sourdough and dipped in a rich egg wash, the bread transforms into a golden, crisp crust that protects the melted filling within.

As a high-protein breakfast or indulgent weekend brunch, these sandwiches provide a satisfying and substantial meal. The combination of sheep's milk cheese and crusty bread makes for a comforting dish that feels undeniably premium. Serve these golden toasties warm from the frying pan, perhaps with a light green salad to cut through the richness of the buttery sourdough and savoury ham.

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Ingredients for Spanish Ham and Cheese Monte Cristo Sandwiches

  • 8 1/2-inch-thick slices sourdough or country-style French bread (each about 5 x 3 inches)

  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

  • 170g Manchego cheese,* thinly sliced

  • 60g thinly sliced Serrano ham or prosciutto

  • 60ml membrillo (quince paste) or quince preserves

  • 4 large eggs

  • 60ml (1/2 stick) butter

How to make Spanish Ham and Cheese Monte Cristo Sandwiches

Arrange 4 bread slices on work surface. Spread each with 1/2 tablespoons mustard. Top each with 1/4 of cheese, then 1/4 of ham, folding to fit. Spread 1 tablespoon quince paste on each of remaining 4 bread slices; place bread, paste side down, atop ham.

Beat eggs in pie dish until well blended. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in each of 2 large skillets over medium-low heat. Working with 1 sandwich at a time, hold sandwiches tightly closed and dip into beaten eggs to coat on all sides. Place 2 sandwiches in each skillet. Cover and cook until bottoms are golden, about 4 minutes. Turn sandwiches over. Cover and cook until bottoms are golden, cheese is melted, and egg coating is cooked through, about 4 minutes longer.

A Spanish cheese made from sheep's milk; sold at some supermarkets and at specialty foods stores.

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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