Ham Sandwiches with Quick Pickles: A Classic Country Recipe
Creamy dressing and tangy brine add satisfying crunch to a classic lunch staple.
Ham Sandwiches with Quick Pickles
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a well-made ham sandwich—and when paired with crisp, tangy quick pickles, it becomes a standout meal with classic country charm. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for a busy week’s lunches, these ham sandwiches with homemade quick pickles deliver vibrant flavor, hearty bite, and a delightful crunch in every layer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Balanced flavors: The saltiness of country ham meets the zing of homemade pickles and the creaminess of a tangy dressing.
- Simple ingredients: Most pantry staples and easy-to-find produce come together for a satisfying meal.
- Perfect for gatherings: Easy to prep ahead, making them ideal for lunches, picnics, tailgates, or family suppers.
Ingredients
For the Quick Pickles
- 2 small to medium Kirby cucumbers
- 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons pickling spice
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
For the Sandwiches
- 8 large slices crusty white bread
- 3/4 cup Miracle Whip or mayonnaise
- 4 large leaves iceberg lettuce
- 1 pound country ham, sliced about 1/4 inch thick
- Freshly ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare the Pickles:
- Trim both ends off the Kirby cucumbers and slice them into 1/4-inch-thick coins. Place the slices in a small heatproof bowl.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, pickling spice, salt, cayenne, and 1/2 cup water. Stir occasionally and bring to a simmer over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Remove from the heat and pour the brine over the cucumbers. Press the cucumber slices so they’re fully submerged.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature (about 45 minutes). Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1.5 hours or up to 5 days for crisp, flavorful pickles.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Lay 4 slices of crusty bread on a clean cutting board.
- Spread each slice with about 2 tablespoons of Miracle Whip or a favorite creamy dressing for signature tang.
- Top each with a crunchy iceberg lettuce leaf and a generous portion of country ham.
- Drain the quick pickles and pile a handful onto each sandwich. Sprinkle generously with freshly ground black pepper.
- Spread the remaining 4 bread slices with 1 tablespoon Miracle Whip each and cap the sandwiches. Press gently before slicing and serving.
What Makes These Sandwiches Special?
This ham sandwich recipe is steeped in tradition. The combination of thick-cut country ham and quick-pickled cucumbers reflects flavors loved by country cooks and ranch families alike. Miracle Whip—a Midwest staple that brings both creaminess and zip—ties the whole thing together, making every bite satisfyingly robust.
Taste & Texture Highlights
- Crunch: Iceberg lettuce and pickles offer crispness, contrasted by the soft-yet-firm bread.
- Savory: Country ham supplies salty depth and substantial chew.
- Tang: Homemade pickles and creamy dressing bring the needed bite and complexity.
Choosing Ingredients: Tips & Alternatives
| Ingredient | Recommended | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Ham | Country ham, sliced 1/4″ thick | Deli ham, Black Forest, smoked ham (for less salt) |
| Bread | Crusty white artisan bread | Sourdough, whole wheat, light rye |
| Dressing | Miracle Whip | Mayonnaise, Dijon-mayo blend |
| Pickles | Homemade quick pickles | Store-bought dill pickles, bread and butter pickles |
| Lettuce | Iceberg | Romaine, butter lettuce |
Notes on Country Ham
Genuine country ham is prized for its salty, deeply savory nature, cured and aged for maximum flavor. Deli ham varieties offer convenience and a milder taste if you prefer a less assertive sandwich filling.
Homemade Pickles: Why Quick Pickling Wins
- Faster than canning: Quick pickles require only a brief soak in a flavorful brine, delivering crunch and tang without long waits.
- Customize your spice: You can use standard pickling spice or add dill, crushed garlic, or chili flakes for more personality.
- Small batch: Make as much or as little as you need—these will keep five days in the fridge, perfect for weeklong meal prep.
Secrets for the Best Ham Sandwich
- Generous spread: Don’t skimp on the creaminess—a thick, even layer of Miracle Whip or mayo is key to the sandwich’s signature taste.
- Balance textures: Make sure each layer—from lettuce to pickles to ham—is present in every bite.
- Always season: Finish with a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper to enhance all flavors.
What others are reading
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These sandwiches can shine as a main course or be the star at parties and potlucks. Here are some favorite ways to enjoy and serve them:
- With chips or sweet potato fries: For classic sandwich shop vibes.
- Alongside soup: Especially tomato or potato soup, for a cozy lunch combo.
- As picnic fare: The robust bread and pickles help them travel well.
- Party platter star: Cut sandwiches into halves or quarters, secure with toothpicks, and offer with extra pickles for gatherings.
How to Store and Make Ahead
- Pickles: Make up to five days ahead and keep chilled in their brine.
- Sandwiches: Assemble sandwiches up to two hours ahead. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add the pickles just before serving if you want to preserve bread crunch.
- Leftovers: Store any uneaten sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of ham?
Yes. While country ham gives the sandwich a rustic, salty bite, deli ham—such as Black Forest, honey, or smoked ham—makes an excellent substitute and may be more familiar for kids’ lunches.
What bread is best for these sandwiches?
Crusty white bread is preferred for its heartiness and chew, but sourdough, wheat, or light rye can all work well. The denser the bread, the better it will hold up to moist fillings.
How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Make sure your quick pickles are well-drained before adding. Spreading the Miracle Whip edge-to-edge creates a moisture barrier to help maintain bread texture.
How long do the quick pickles keep?
Stored in the fridge, these quick pickles stay crisp and flavorful for up to five days.
Can I make this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely. Double or triple the recipe as needed. For parties, slice each sandwich into smaller portions and secure with decorative picks for easy serving.
Tips, Tricks, and Creative Variations
- Add cheese: Layer in slices of Swiss, cheddar, or provolone for a heartier sandwich.
- Toss in more veggies: Thinly sliced tomato or red onion pairs well with the classic fillings (add just before serving for freshness).
- Swap the greens: Romaine adds crunch, butter lettuce offers softness, or try arugula for a peppery bite.
- Spice it up: Add a whisper of Dijon, horseradish, or a slice of jalapeño for a modern kick.
Why Quick Pickles Make All the Difference
Crunchy, tangy pickles are the standout aspect that set these sandwiches apart. Their fresh, zesty snap enlivens the ham and keeps every bite interesting. Plus, learning to make your own quick pickles opens the door to endless sandwich and snack possibilities—try tossing in sprigs of dill, mustard seeds, or garlic for fun variations.
Nutrition Snapshot
| Component | Rough Estimate Per Sandwich |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 350-400 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Sodium | Higher with country ham, lower with deli ham |
| Fiber | 2g |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and will vary based on bread, ham, and condiment choices.
Ham Sandwiches with Quick Pickles: The Sandwich for All Seasons
A classic for good reason, the ham sandwich only needs a few tweaks—fresh, quick pickles, robust bread, and a creamy spread—to become something memorable. Whether prepared for a ranch family, a lunchbox, or a laid-back gathering, this recipe brings warmth and flavor to every table.
Ready to make your own?
- Gather high-quality, fresh ingredients.
- Don’t shy away from bold pickles and hearty bread.
- Enjoy every crisp, creamy bite—and don’t forget the extra napkins!
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a34292699/ham-sandwiches-with-quick-pickles-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWC4vRvePv8
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g65822399/best-pickle-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g35450031/best-ham-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/g65584813/picnic-sandwich-recipes/
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