Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Sandwich Loaf

Source: Jan Taylor

1 (10- to 12-inch) loaf Italian bread
3 tablespoons margarine or butter, softened
1 tablespoon spicy brown or country-style Dijon mustard
6 (1 ounce) slices Swiss cheese
3/4 pound thinly sliced cooked ham

Heat grill. Spray 25 x 18-inch sheet of heavy-duty foil with nonstick cooking spray. Without cutting all the way through (to within 1/4 inch of bottom), cut loaf or bread into 12 slices, each about 3/4 inch thick.

In small bowl, combine margarine and mustard; blend well. Spread every other slice of bread with scant 2 teaspoons mustard mixture, creating 6 sandwiches. Fold each slice of cheese in half diagonally; tuck each into sandwich. Divide ham evenly among sandwiches, tucking in to fit. Place loaf on sprayed foil. Wrap loaf securely using double-fold seals, allowing room for heat expansion.

When ready to grill, place foil wrapped loaf on gas grill over medium heat or on charcoal grill 4 to 6 inches from medium coals. Cook 20 to 25 minutes or until cheese is melted and loaf is thoroughly heated, turning loaf frequently.

To serve, open packet carefully to allow steam to escape. Remove foil from loaf; pull apart sandwiches.

Servings: 6 sandwiches