Skip to main content

Grilled Corned Beef and Fontina Sandwiches

This hearty corned beef and fontina sandwich offers a sophisticated twist on a classic grilled toastie. By pairing salty, thinly sliced corned beef with the nutty melt of fontina cheese and the subtle crunch of sweet onions, you create a balanced and satisfying high-protein lunch. Using Jewish-style rye bread provides a sturdy, aromatic base that crisps beautifully when pan-fried in butter, ensuring a golden crust and a rich, traditional flavour profile.

Perfect for using up leftover homemade beef, these sandwiches are quick to assemble and cook in just minutes. The addition of sharp Dijon mustard cuts through the richness of the cheese, making this recipe an excellent choice for a filling weekend brunch or a substantial midweek supper. Serve these hot from the frying pan with a few dill pickles on the side for a truly authentic deli-style experience at home.

Video picks

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Grilled Corned Beef and Fontina Sandwiches

  • 8 slices Jewish-style rye bread, divided

  • Dijon mustard

  • 450g thinly sliced corned beef reserved from Homemade Irish Corned Beef and Vegetables

  • 230g thinly sliced Fontina cheese

  • 1/2 sweet onion (such as Maui or Vidalia), thinly sliced

  • 60ml (1/2 stick) butter, divided

Place 4 bread slices on work surface. Spread mustard on 1 side of each. Divide corned beef among bread slices. Top with cheese and onion. Cover with remaining 4 bread slices, pressing slightly to adhere.

Melt 2 tablespoons butter in each of 2 large nonstick skillets over medium heat. Place 2 sandwiches in each skillet and cook until golden brown on bottom, pressing occasionally with spatula, about 3 minutes. Turn sandwiches over and cook until golden on bottom and cheese melts, about 3 minutes. Transfer sandwiches to plates, cut in half, and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.