Ham and Rhubarb Jam Toasties

Published: June 3, 2026
Marilyn GardnerMarilyn Gardner
Categories: Bread
Tags: Comfort Food, Cheese, Ham, British, Quick Lunch, Savoury

Ham & Rhubarb Toasties

Sweet and savoury toasties with sliced ham, tangy rhubarb jam, and melted cheese. A delightful quick lunch that balances flavours beautifully.

Prep Time:10 minCook Time:8 minTotal Time:18 minServings:2Difficulty:Easy

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories:420 kcal
Protein:18 g
Carbs:35 g
Fat:22 g

Ham and rhubarb jam toasties are a wonderful marriage of sweet and savoury flavours that feel both comforting and unexpectedly sophisticated. The tangy rhubarb jam cuts through the richness of the ham and melted cheese, creating a delightfully balanced sandwich that's far more interesting than your typical toastie. It's the kind of recipe that makes people smile when they take that first bite—surprised and delighted by the combination.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to make, yet how impressive it tastes. Perfect for lunch, a light supper, or even a casual entertaining option. The key is using good-quality ham and a homemade rhubarb jam if you can, though a shop-bought version works wonderfully too. You'll be making these again and again.

Ingredients

  • Sliced bread:4 slices
  • Sliced ham:4 oz
  • Rhubarb jam:3 tbsp
  • Cheddar cheese, sliced:3 oz
  • Butter:2 tbsp
  • Salt and black pepper:to taste

Instructions

  1. Butter one side of each slice of bread generously. Heat a large skillet or toastie maker over medium heat.

    Bread slices generously buttered on one side with a skillet heating nearby
  2. Lay 2 slices of bread butter-side down. Layer half the ham on each slice, then spread 1.5 tablespoons of rhubarb jam over the ham.

    Ham layered on bread slices and spread with glossy rhubarb jam
  3. Top each with a slice of cheese, then another slice of ham if desired. Spread rhubarb jam on the remaining bread slices, then place them butter-side up on top to create sandwiches.

    Cheddar slices added over ham and rhubarb jam before assembling the toasties
  4. Place the toasties in the hot skillet and toast for 3-4 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until golden and the cheese is melted.

    Ham rhubarb jam toasties browning in a hot skillet as cheese melts
  5. Remove from heat, let cool for 1 minute, and cut diagonally. Serve warm with extra rhubarb jam on the side for dipping.

    Warm ham and rhubarb jam toasties cut diagonally and served with extra jam

Tips & Notes

  • Don't skimp on the butter—it creates that gorgeous golden crust and adds wonderful flavour.
  • If using a toastie maker, preheat it well and close gently to avoid squishing out all the jam.
  • For a twist, try adding a thin slice of red onion or a small handful of peppery rocket before closing the sandwich.
  • Make your own rhubarb jam if you have time—it elevates the dish significantly and isn't difficult at all.