Grandma Dolly's Hot Chipped Ham and Egg Sandwiches

Growing up in Western Pennsylvania, one learns to love Isaly's chipped chopped ham.  This is a chipped deli ham that has no equal in other parts of the country. Years ago my mother-in-law gave me this make ahead sandwich recipe that people rave about. When you look at the ingredients, it may not seem appealing, but one bite and you are hooked.  I am posting this recipe on my blog because every New Year's Eve, while my son is grocery shopping for his party, he calls me for the ingredient list.  Next year, he can just browse to my blog!

INGREDIENTS

1 lb. Isaly's Chipped Chopped Ham

2 stalks celery, chopped

2 hard boiled eggs, chopped

1 small onion, chopped

3/4 cup Hellman's mayonnaise

4 slices yellow American Cheese

1 pkg. hot dog buns (use inexpensive grocery store brand, not Bakery buns)

In a large bowl mix the ham, celery, and onion well.  Now mix in the mayonnaise until well blended.  Next stir in the chopped eggs.  Cut each slice of cheese in half and you should have 8 pieces.  Now to assemble.  Prepare 8 pieces of aluminum foil large enough to fully wrap a hot dog bun in.  Lay an open bun in the center of the foil and a 1/2 slice of cheese in the center of the bun.  Now pack the prepared ham filling into the bun.

After filling, wrap the bun in foil and twist the edges.

 At this point I place all the sandwiches on a cookie sheet and put in the refrigerator, for up to 48 hours.  When I need them, I place in a preheated 350 degree oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes until slightly toasted and cheese is melted.  Serve with a cup of soup or chips.  In Western Pennsylvania, we serve them with another local favorite, pierogies.