Even Gordon Ramsay had trouble getting the grilled cheese just right, so it is important to know the exact recipe. The grilled cheese sandwich recipe is a timeless classic loved around the world. From kids to adults, almost everyone finds comfort in that golden crispy exterior and the gooey melted cheese within. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, a midnight snack, or an accompaniment to your favorite soup, grilled cheese always hits the spot, especially when you choose the right cheese for it.
But while the sandwich may seem simple, just bread, butter, and cheese, there's an art to making the perfect one. In this article, we’ll take you through a complete guide on how to make grilled cheese sandwich, along with essential tips, variations, and serving suggestions. Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or a Michelin-star chef, just kidding, this guide has something for you. Stay with us until the end of this article to know all of the details about making the perfect grilled cheese sandwich.
The Origin of the Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Exactly like margarita pizza, grilled cheese started its journey as a filling and cheap meal. The true grilled cheese sandwich as we know it today began to emerge in the 1920s and 1930s in America, coinciding with two key inventions:
- Pre-sliced bread was first introduced by the Chillicothe Baking Company in 1928.
- Processed cheese was pioneered by James L. Kraft, who patented a method for pasteurizing cheese to make it shelf-stable.
During the Great Depression, grilled cheese sandwiches became a cheap, filling meal. They were often made with just bread and Kraft singles, grilled in a skillet or broiled in the oven. Originally called “toasted cheese” or “melted cheese” sandwiches, they were easy to prepare, economical, and nutritious enough to be promoted in school lunch programs and military rations during World War II.
But how a humble school snack got into the kitchen
By the 1950s, the grilled cheese had become a staple in American diners and kitchens. Cooks began adding a slice of tomato or ham, and serving it with tomato soup, a pairing that remains iconic today.
Ingredients for a grilled cheese sandwich
Before diving into the grilled cheese recipe, it’s crucial to choose the right ingredients. A good grilled cheese doesn’t require fancy or expensive products, but the quality of the cheese and balance make a huge difference.
Basic Ingredients:
- Bread: White, whole wheat, sourdough, brioche, or artisan bread.
- Cheese: Calin’s cheddar, mozzarella, Gouda, or a mix.
- Butter or mayonnaise: To spread on the outer side of the bread.
Optional Ingredients:
- Cooked bacon
- Tomato slices (Or Anbar Panir Dried Tomato)
- Avocado
- Caramelized onions
- Jalapeños
- Mustard or Calin’s pesto dip
- Garlic powder or Italian herbs
Choosing the right bread and cheese can elevate your toasted cheese sandwich from ordinary to extraordinary. Let’s see how to bring these ingredients together in the next section.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Making a grilled cheese sandwich is quick and easy once you understand the basic process. Here’s a foolproof recipe that guarantees crispy bread and fully melted cheese every time.
Ingredients (for 2 sandwiches):
- 4 slices of bread (your choice)
- 2 tablespoons softened butter or mayonnaise
- 4–6 slices of cheese (cheddar, American, or your favorite blend)
Instructions:
- Prep the bread
Spread a thin, even layer of butter or mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread. This is what creates that signature golden crust. - Add the cheese
Place 2–3 slices of cheese on the unbuttered side of one slice of bread. Top it with the second slice, buttered side facing out. - Heat your pan
Use a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan. Place it on medium-low heat and let it warm for a minute or two. - Grill the sandwich
Place the sandwich in the pan. Cook for about 3–4 minutes, pressing gently with a spatula. When the bottom is golden brown, flip it carefully. - Cook the other side
Grill for another 3–4 minutes until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is melted. If needed, cover the pan for a minute to help the cheese melt. - Serve immediately
Remove the sandwich from the pan, let it rest for a minute, then slice and enjoy!
Tips to make the best grilled cheese
Everyone wants to know how to make grilled cheese that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and melty on the inside. These pro tips will take your sandwich to the next level.
1. Low and slow cooking
Don't rush! Cooking on medium-low heat allows the bread to crisp without burning and gives the cheese time to fully melt.
2. Butter vs. Mayonnaise
Butter gives a rich, traditional flavor. But mayonnaise provides an even crispier crust and adds a slight tang. Try both and see which you prefer.
3. Use a mix of cheeses
Mixing cheeses, like sharp cheddar and mozzarella, adds both flavor and meltability. American cheese is super melty, while aged cheeses add depth.
4. Choose good bread
Crusty breads like sourdough or brioche add texture and flavor. Avoid overly soft or thin slices, which can get soggy or tear during flipping.
5. Add flavor to your spread
Mix garlic powder, paprika, mustard, or herbs into your butter or mayo spread for extra depth.
6. Flip carefully
Use a wide spatula and flip gently to avoid losing cheese or crushing the sandwich.
What to Serve Grilled Cheese with?
Wondering what to pair with your delicious grilled cheese sandwich recipe? Here are some classic and creative serving ideas:
Classic Pairings:
- Tomato soup: The ultimate pairing. The creamy, tangy soup balances the richness of the sandwich.
- Pickles: Their acidity cuts through the cheese.
- French fries or potato chips: Add crunch and comfort.
Healthy Options:
- Fresh salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette provides a light counterpoint.
- Roasted veggies: Especially good for dinner or heavier meals.
Additions:
- Fried egg on top: For a breakfast-style twist.
- Avocado slices or guacamole: Creamy, fresh contrast.
- Hot sauce or aioli dip: Adds a punch of flavor.
The toasted cheese sandwich can be a humble snack or a full meal, depending on what you serve it with, but the silver lining is that you can add absolutely anything you want to the grilled cheese sandwich as long as it tastes good.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Best Cheese for Grilled Cheese?
The best cheese is one that melts well and complements your bread. Here are some top choices:
- Cheddar: This English cheese has a Sharp flavor and good melt.
- Mozzarella: This Italian option is Mild, stretchy melt and has a creamy note.
- Emmentaler cheese: Nutty flavor and melts beautifully, if you wanna add a bit of Switzerland to your American meal.
- Gouda: The Netherlands has great cheeses, but Gouda is a safe option to use in grilled cheese if you are a fan of Buttery, slightly sweet cheese.
- Provolone: Smooth, savory.
Pro Tip: Use a combo! For example, cheddar + mozzarella gives both flavor and stretch.
What kind of bread works best for grilled cheese?
Good bread is essential for texture and taste. Look for something that crisps up well without falling apart.
Top Bread Picks:
- Sourdough: Tangy flavor and great crunch.
- Brioche: Soft and buttery, slightly sweet.
- Whole Wheat: Nutty and hearty.
- French Bread: Rustic and crusty.
- White Sandwich Bread: Classic and soft.
Avoid bread that’s too thin or soft unless you're toasting in a sandwich press.
Can I add other ingredients to the best grilled cheese recipe?
Absolutely! One of the best things about grilled cheese recipes is their versatility.
The Most Popular Add-ins:
- Proteins: Bacon, ham, turkey, shredded chicken.
- Veggies: Tomato slices, spinach, arugula, roasted peppers.
- Extras: Caramelized onions, jalapeños, pickles, sun-dried tomatoes.
Just make sure you don’t overload the sandwich. Too many fillings can make it hard to grill evenly or keep the cheese from melting properly.