Golden, flaky biscuits meet the perfect combination of savory ham, rich Cheddar, and a luscious apricot mustard sauce in this comforting, Southern-inspired sandwich. The contrast between the buttery biscuit, salty ham, sharp cheese, and tangy-sweet mustard creates a delightful harmony of flavors in every bite.
Perfect for brunch, picnics, or even a quick dinner, these ham biscuit sandwiches are easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether served warm or at room temperature, they’re sure to impress your guests and become a household favorite. Pair them with a fresh green salad or a warm bowl of soup for a complete meal that feels both indulgent and homemade.
Full Recipe:
For the Biscuits:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled, plus more for work surface
- 1 1/2 Tbsp. baking powder
- 3/4 tsp. baking soda
- 1 1/2 Tbsp. sugar
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces, plus 2 tsp. melted
- 1 3/4 cups cold buttermilk
For the Sandwiches:
- 9 freshly baked biscuits
- Sliced ham
- 6 oz. extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, sliced
- 9 lettuce leaves
For the Apricot Mustard:
- 1/2 cup apricot jam
- 2 Tbsp. whole-grain mustard
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
Directions:
Prepare the Biscuits: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt.
Cut in cold butter using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the buttermilk until just combined.
Transfer dough to a floured work surface, knead lightly 3 to 4 times, and pat into a 3/4-inch-thick rectangle.
Cut into 9 equal squares and place them close together on a baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter.
Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly.
Prepare the Apricot Mustard: In a small bowl, whisk together the apricot jam, whole-grain mustard, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Split the warm biscuits in half. Layer each with sliced ham, Cheddar cheese, and a lettuce leaf. Spread a generous amount of apricot mustard onto one side of the biscuit before closing the sandwich.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 9
Ham Biscuit Sandwiches with Apricot Mustard: A Southern Classic with a Gourmet Twist
Southern cuisine is known for its comforting, home-cooked flavors that bring people together. Among the most beloved staples of Southern cooking is the classic biscuit—flaky, buttery, and incredibly versatile. When paired with savory ham, sharp Cheddar cheese, and a sweet and tangy apricot mustard sauce, the result is a sandwich that’s both indulgent and perfectly balanced. Whether you’re looking for a new brunch favorite, an easy lunch idea, or a crowd-pleasing party snack, these Ham Biscuit Sandwiches with Apricot Mustard are sure to impress.
The Perfect Harmony of Sweet, Savory, and Buttery
What makes this dish so irresistible is the interplay of flavors. The base of the sandwich is a homemade buttermilk biscuit, which is rich, tender, and slightly crisp on the outside. Biscuits, unlike traditional sandwich bread, add a warm, buttery depth that enhances every bite.
The next layer is the ham, which provides the perfect savory contrast to the biscuit. Whether you use smoked ham, honey-glazed ham, or a classic country-style ham, the saltiness is key to balancing the sweetness of the apricot mustard.
Cheddar cheese adds another layer of complexity. Opting for an extra-sharp variety ensures that its bold, tangy bite doesn’t get lost among the other flavors. The final touch is the apricot mustard sauce—a combination of whole-grain mustard, Dijon mustard, and apricot jam. This unexpected addition elevates the dish by adding a sweet, slightly tart flavor that complements the ham beautifully.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
There are countless ham sandwiches out there, but this one stands out for a few key reasons:
- Texture Contrast: The flakiness of the biscuit, the smooth creaminess of the cheese, and the slight chew of the ham create a multi-layered eating experience.
- Flavor Balance: The interplay of salty ham, sharp cheese, and the sweet heat of the apricot mustard keeps every bite interesting.
- Homemade Goodness: Unlike store-bought bread, homemade biscuits add a level of warmth and nostalgia that enhances the overall dish.
- Easy to Customize: You can switch up the type of cheese, adjust the sweetness of the mustard, or even add extra toppings like caramelized onions or arugula to personalize the sandwich.
When to Serve These Ham Biscuit Sandwiches
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. While it may seem like a brunch specialty, it works just as well for lunch, dinner, or even as a party appetizer. Here are a few occasions where these sandwiches shine:
- Brunch Gatherings: These biscuits are perfect for weekend brunches, holiday breakfasts, or baby showers. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or crispy hash browns for a full spread.
- Game Day and Tailgates: Since they’re easy to transport and serve, ham biscuit sandwiches are a great choice for game day snacks or outdoor gatherings.
- Tea Parties and Elegant Events: Their small, delicate size makes them a perfect fit for a more refined event like a tea party or bridal shower.
- Quick Weeknight Meals: Pair these sandwiches with a bowl of soup or a fresh salad for an easy yet satisfying dinner option.
How to Elevate This Dish Even Further
If you want to take this already delicious sandwich to the next level, consider these upgrades and variations:
- Add Fresh Greens: While this recipe includes lettuce for some added crunch, you can substitute arugula for a peppery bite or baby spinach for a more neutral green.
- Incorporate a Spicy Kick: Mix a bit of sriracha or red pepper flakes into the apricot mustard for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
- Try a Different Cheese: If you’re not a fan of sharp Cheddar, consider using Brie for a creamier texture or Gouda for a slightly smoky flavor.
- Make it a Breakfast Sandwich: Add a fried egg on top of the ham for a Southern-style breakfast sandwich that’s rich, hearty, and perfect with a cup of coffee.
- Use Flavored Biscuits: Instead of plain buttermilk biscuits, experiment with biscuits flavored with cheddar, chives, or even a hint of black pepper to add another dimension of flavor.
Why You Should Make These Ham Biscuit Sandwiches at Home
There are plenty of reasons to make this recipe from scratch rather than relying on store-bought alternatives. Homemade biscuits have a fresher taste, better texture, and are free of preservatives. Plus, the process of making biscuits from scratch is surprisingly simple and deeply rewarding.
Another major advantage is the control over ingredients. When you prepare your own apricot mustard, you can tweak the sweetness, acidity, or spice level to suit your taste preferences. Similarly, you can choose high-quality ham and cheese, avoiding overly processed versions that may contain unnecessary additives.
Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Ham Biscuit Sandwiches
To create a complete meal, consider pairing these sandwiches with side dishes that complement their rich, buttery, and slightly sweet flavors. Here are a few ideas:
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes works well with the apricot mustard.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A simple salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic dressing balances the richness of the biscuits.
- Creamy Tomato Soup: The combination of warm biscuits and tangy tomato soup is a cozy, satisfying meal.
- Coleslaw: A light, vinegar-based coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that cuts through the buttery biscuit.
- Pickles or Pickled Onions: Their acidity enhances the flavors of the sandwich and provides a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the mustard.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Southern-Inspired Recipe
Ham Biscuit Sandwiches with Apricot Mustard are a true celebration of Southern comfort food with a modern twist. They bring together the richness of homemade biscuits, the savory goodness of ham and cheese, and the unexpected sweetness of apricot mustard in a way that feels both familiar and exciting.
Perfect for brunch, game day, quick dinners, or elegant gatherings, this recipe is easy to make and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re preparing them for a crowd or just indulging in a comforting homemade meal, these sandwiches are sure to become a favorite.
So why not give this recipe a try? With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll be rewarded with a delicious, gourmet-level dish that showcases the beauty of homemade cooking.