Party Sandwich Loaf

A terrific, make-ahead party sandwich that is served chilled.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 small round loaf Italian bread, unsliced
Butter, softened
2 tomatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup finely cooked ham
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
Mayonnaise
4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
1/2 cup (2 ounces) shredded Wisconsin Cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt to taste
2 ripe avocados, mashed
2 tablespoons French Dressing
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
Half-and-half cream as needed
6 olives, pimento stuffed for garnish (optional)
Parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Directions:

1. Cut bread loaf crosswise into 4 thick slices.
2. Spread each slice with butter.
3. Combine ham and celery with enough mayonnaise to moisten. Spread on bottom layer.
4. Top with second slice of bread.
5. Combine eggs, cheddar cheese, chili powder and salt with enough mayonnaise to moisten. Spread on second layer and cover with tomato slices.
6. Place third slice of bread on tomatoes.
7. Combine mashed avocados and French Dressing, spread on third layer of bread and cover with top slice.
8. Combine cream cheese with enough cream to thin to spreading consistency; beat until smooth. Spread top and sides of loaf with mixture.
9. Garnish with olive slices and parsley, if desired. Chill well.
10. Cut into 12 wedges for serving.

Makes 12 servings.

Recipe provided courtesy of Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Inc.