Ham & Cheese Sandwich

Start by laying out 8 slices of bread on a clean cutting board or work surface. Using a butter knife, spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice - this will be the outside of the sandwiches that touches the pan for that perfect golden crust. Flip 4 slices over so the buttered side is down, and on the unbuttered side, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on 2 slices and mayonnaise on the other 2 slices. The condiments add flavor and help prevent the bread from getting soggy from the ham and cheese. If you're using tomato slices and lettuce, prepare them now by washing the lettuce leaves and patting them dry, and slicing the tomato into 1/4-inch thick slices. Season the tomato slices lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.

On the 4 bread slices with condiments (mustard or mayo side up), begin layering the filling ingredients. Start with 2 ounces of sliced deli ham per sandwich, folding the slices slightly to create some height and texture rather than laying them completely flat. Next, add 1 slice of Swiss or cheddar cheese on top of the ham - the cheese will act as a barrier to help keep the bread from getting soggy and will melt beautifully when grilled. If using optional ingredients, add 1-2 tomato slices and 1-2 lettuce leaves on top of the cheese. The lettuce adds crunch while the tomato provides freshness and acidity to balance the rich ham and cheese. Finally, top each sandwich with the remaining 4 bread slices, buttered side facing up. Gently press down on each sandwich to help the layers adhere together, but don't compress too much as you want to maintain some volume for even cooking.

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat - medium heat is crucial to ensure the bread gets golden and crispy while giving the cheese enough time to melt completely. Carefully place the assembled sandwiches in the heated skillet, buttered side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes without moving them, allowing the bottom to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. You'll know they're ready to flip when the edges start to look golden and the sandwich feels set when gently pressed with the spatula. Using a wide spatula, carefully flip each sandwich and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until equally golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. You can gently press down with the spatula during cooking to ensure even browning and help the cheese melt. Remove from heat and let the sandwiches rest for 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly. Using a sharp knife, cut each sandwich diagonally from corner to corner, creating two triangular halves. Serve immediately while the bread is still crispy and the cheese is warm and gooey.