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Gerber Sandwich

This toasted, open-face sandwich is a St. Louis classic. It dates to the early 1970s and is named for Dick Gerber, the neighbor to Ruma's Deli, where the sandwich was added to the menu. Gerber often prepared unique lunch combinations in the deli kitchen. The sandwich is considered a morning delicacy in St. Louis and can be found in restaurants throughout the city. The sandwich uses a cheese unique to the region–Provel. A processed blend of Swiss, provolone, and cheddar cheeses, Provel can be difficult to find in other states.

Recipe Servings: 1

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Vegetarian
Vegan
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Kosher
Halal

Ingredients

  • 4–6 Tbsp butter, melted
  • ½ tsp garlic powder or minced garlic
  • French bread, sliced in half lengthwise
  • 2-4 slices ham, sliced thin
  • 2 slices provel or provolone cheese
  • Paprika

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°.
  2. In a small dish, combine the melted butter and garlic.
  3. Brush the garlic butter over the interior of the French bread slices.
  4. Top each slice of bread with layers of ham and cheese, and sprinkle with paprika.
  5. Place the pieces of French bread on a baking sheet, or directly on the middle oven rack, and bake for 15 minutes or until toasted brown.
  6. Serve hot.

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