Moons Over My Hammy Breakfast

Moons Over My Hammy is a legendary diner breakfast sandwich packed with layers of fluffy eggs, savory ham, and melty cheese on golden-griddled bread. This homemade copycat brings the Denny’s classic right to your kitchen in just twenty minutes and is a family favorite for lazy Saturday mornings or breakfast-for-dinner nights.

My family started making this one weekend after missing our usual diner trip and it quickly became a regular request. There is something so comforting about warm scrambled eggs and cheese layered with thin ham slices all toasted up together.

Ingredients

• Salted butter: brings rich flavor and helps toast the bread evenly Use a quality butter for the best browning
• Large eggs: form the fluffy scrambled center Choose fresh eggs for the best texture
• Sourdough or Artisan bread: gives the sandwich texture and tang Look for bread with a firm structure for easy flipping
• Swiss cheese: adds a nutty creamy element Melts beautifully
• American cheese: gives that classic diner melt If you are feeling adventurous sharp cheddar is also great here
• Deli ham: delivers the key salty savory bite Opt for thinly sliced ham and avoid overly wet brands for less soggy sandwiches

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Butter:

Start by heating a medium non-stick skillet over medium-low heat Add one tablespoon of butter and wait until it is gently melted and just beginning to bubble so the eggs will not stick

Whisk the Eggs:

Crack all the eggs into a medium mixing bowl Whisk vigorously until the yolks and whites are completely blended for even cooking

Scramble the Eggs:

Pour the whisked eggs into the heated skillet on medium-low heat Let the eggs sit undisturbed until the edges start to set With a silicone spatula gently pull the cooked egg from the edges toward the center allowing the uncooked liquid to flow to the edges Keep the process gentle and slow to build soft curds

Finish the Eggs:

Stop stirring when most of the egg is set and just a thin layer of uncooked egg remains Remove from heat and leave in the pan for another minute The residual heat will finish cooking the eggs without overcooking

Butter the Bread:

Using the remaining butter evenly spread a thin layer on one side of each bread slice Make sure the butter goes all the way to the edges for maximum crisping

Toast the Bread and Build Sandwiches:

Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium Place the bread slices buttered side down and toast until golden brown Lay a slice of Swiss cheese on one bread slice and a slice of American cheese on the other for each sandwich Add a generous mound of ham on the Swiss side Let everything warm until cheese melts and bread is golden

Add Eggs and Assemble:

Divide the scrambled eggs evenly onto each American cheese side Carefully close each sandwich pressing gently so the melted cheese sticks it together The ham goes on the bottom the eggs on the top for the signature look

Serve Warm:

Transfer to plates and enjoy straight away while the cheese is still gooey and the bread is crisp

Save This

My favorite part is how perfectly the cheese melts right on the skillet into the bread That gooey layer holding everything together always reminds me of breakfast outings with my dad who loved this sandwich even more with extra ham added

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers let sandwiches cool then wrap them tightly in foil and keep chilled for up to one day To reheat gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a lid or pop in a toaster oven so the bread crisps again Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the bread from going soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

No sourdough on hand Any sturdy country loaf or sandwich bread will work well If you want a lighter version you can use half the butter or try turkey or chicken deli slices instead of ham Feel free to swap in cheddar provolone or even a jalapeño Jack for a little kick

Save This

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sandwiches with crispy hash browns crunchy pickles or a fresh fruit salad for balance Sometimes I cut them in half and offer ketchup or Dijon mustard on the side for dipping To turn it into a brunch spread simply add baked beans or roasted tomatoes

Cultural and Historical Context

Moons Over My Hammy was made iconic by Denny's as a fun breakfast play on words Their version dates back to the nineties when creative diner-style combos drew late-night crowds Now it is cherished another generation thanks to comfort food fans recreating it at home

Common Queries

→ What type of bread works best?

Sourdough is traditional for its flavor and structure, but any artisan bread can be used for a sturdy, crisp sandwich.

→ How do you achieve creamy scrambled eggs?

Cook eggs gently over medium-low heat, stirring minimally. Remove from heat slightly before fully set to allow for residual cooking.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Swiss and American are classic for their melt and taste, but you can substitute cheddar or your favorite cheese blend as desired.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead?

For best results, assemble and cook just before eating. Prepared sandwiches can be stored, then reheated in a skillet to restore crispness.

→ What pairs well with these sandwiches?

Hash browns, fresh fruit, or a simple green salad make excellent sides to complement this savory breakfast dish.