Grilled cheese sandwiches are a timeless classic that never goes out of style. There's something about the warm, gooey, cheesy goodness sandwiched between two slices of crispy bread that makes it a comforting and satisfying meal.
Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a bowl of tomato soup, grilled cheese is a staple in many households. This easy-to-make sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch, a lazy weekend brunch, or even a midnight snack.
In this recipe, we'll show you how to make a classic grilled cheese using simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions.
Ingredients
Note: The full ingredients list is provided in the recipe card below.
- Muenster cheese or any melty cheese: The main ingredient of the sandwich, soft and melty cheese, is typically used, such as Muenster, American, Cheddar, or Swiss. These cheeses melt well and give the sandwich a creamy and gooey texture.
- White bread: The bread for the sandwich is typically sliced white bread, but any bread you choose can be used, such as sourdough, whole wheat, or rye. The bread should be sturdy enough to hold up to the cheese and butter without falling apart.
- Unsalted butter: Butter is used to toast the bread and provide a crispy exterior to the sandwich. Unsalted butter is preferred because it allows you to control the saltiness of the sandwich.
- Optional ingredients: Some sandwich variations may include additional ingredients such as bacon, tomato, avocado, ham, or spinach. These ingredients can be added to the sandwich for extra flavor and nutrition.
How to Make Grilled Cheese
Note: The full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
Layout 1 slice of bread on a cutting board or work surface—add two cheese slices and top with the remaining bread. Press down lightly. Heat ½ tablespoon butter in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the sandwiches and cook until the bread toasts and the cheese is slightly melted for 3 to 5 minutes. Flip with a spatula and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the pan.
Cook until the other side is toasted and the cheese is melted, about 3 minutes more, adjusting the heat as needed to keep the bread from burning before the cheese melts (lightly press down on the sandwich to encourage even browning and to help melt the cheese; be gentle, don’t smash it). Serve the Grilled Cheese immediately. Enjoy!
FAQ
How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out of the sandwich?
To prevent the cheese from oozing out of the sandwich, use the right amount of cheese and not overstuff the sandwich. Also, avoid using too much butter or margarine when grilling the sandwich, as this can make the cheese slide out.
Can I use a panini press to make grilled cheese?
Yes, a panini press can be used to make grilled cheese. Just be sure to use sturdy bread that can hold up to the pressure of the press and to adjust the temperature and cooking time accordingly.
Can I make grilled cheese in the oven?
Yes, you can make grilled cheese in the oven by placing the assembled sandwich on a baking sheet and baking at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
How do I make my grilled cheese sandwich extra crispy?
To make your grilled cheese sandwich extra crispy, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the outside of the bread before grilling. The mayonnaise oil will help create a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Can I make a grilled cheese sandwich without butter or margarine?
Using a non-stick skillet or griddle, you can make a grilled cheese sandwich without butter or margarine. Simply place the assembled sandwich in the skillet and cook over medium-low heat until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted, flipping once halfway through cooking.
Related Recipes:
- Mac and Cheese
- Cheese Soda Bread
- Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich
- Cornbread with Cheese and Anise Seeds
- Cheese Stuffed Cornmeal Dinner Rolls
Recipe
Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 slices of Muenster cheese or any melty cheese , such as American, Mozzarella, Colby, Cheddar, Havarti, Swiss, Fontina, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Provolone
- 2 slices of white bread * (you can use any bread you have on hand)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
- Layout 1 slice of bread on a cutting board or work surface—add two slices of cheese and top with the remaining slice of bread. Press down lightly.
- Heat ½ tablespoon butter in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the sandwiches and cook until the bread toasts and the cheese is slightly melted for 3 to 5 minutes. Flip with a spatula and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the pan.
- Cook until the other side is toasted and the cheese is melted, about 3 minutes more, adjusting the heat as needed to keep the bread from burning before the cheese melts (lightly press down on the sandwich to encourage even browning and to help melt the cheese; be gentle, don’t smash it). Serve the Grilled Cheese immediately. Enjoy!
Notes
All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods, and portion sizes per household.