Name: Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-484701H4M14S
Total time: PT-484701H4M14S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough); 2 tablespoons butter (softened); 2 slices of cheese (cheddar, American, or your preferred cheese)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A grilled cheese sandwich is the ultimate comfort food, combining just two essential ingredients—bread and cheese—into something absolutely magical. The golden, crispy crust gives way to a warm, melted cheese filling, making it the perfect blend of textures and flavors. This easy-to-make sandwich is endlessly customizable with different types of bread and cheese, so you can adjust it to your personal preferences. Whether you’re pairing it with a bowl of tomato soup or enjoying it on its own, you’ll always look forward to that first bite.

Ingredients

2 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough)
2 tablespoons butter (softened)
2 slices of cheese (cheddar, American, or your preferred cheese)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Butter one side of each slice of bread evenly. Make sure to cover the entire surface for a crispy finish.
Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, onto the skillet.
Place the slices of cheese on top of the bread, and then cover with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
Grill the sandwich for 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
Flip the sandwich over and grill for another 3-4 minutes, until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Remove from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5-8 minutes
Total Time: 10-13 minutes

Variations

Add extras: You can customize your grilled cheese by adding ingredients like tomatoes, bacon, ham, or sautéed onions inside the sandwich.
Use different cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like Swiss, mozzarella, provolone, or gouda to change the flavor profile.
Spicy grilled cheese: Add some sliced jalapeños, sriracha sauce, or chili flakes to make the sandwich spicy.
Herb-infused butter: Add garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs to the butter for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Grilled cheese sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, wrap them in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat your grilled cheese in a skillet or toaster oven to get the bread crispy again. You can also wrap it in a damp paper towel and microwave it for 30-45 seconds, but the crust may not be as crispy.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter. However, butter gives a richer flavor and results in a crispier, golden crust.

Can I make a grilled cheese sandwich in a toaster?

No, grilled cheese sandwiches are typically cooked on a skillet or griddle. The toaster won’t allow you to melt the cheese properly, and the bread may not toast evenly.

What bread is best for a grilled cheese sandwich?

Any type of bread works well for grilled cheese. Popular options include white bread, whole wheat, or sourdough. Choose one that you prefer, and consider how thick or dense you want the bread to be.

Can I make a grilled cheese sandwich with vegan cheese?

Yes, vegan cheese can be used to make a grilled cheese sandwich. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well, as some vegan cheeses may not melt as smoothly as dairy cheese.

How do I make a grilled cheese sandwich extra crispy?

For an extra crispy sandwich, use a generous amount of butter or add a bit of olive oil to the pan. You can also try pressing the sandwich down lightly with a spatula while grilling.

Can I use different kinds of cheese for grilled cheese?

Absolutely! You can use cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, provolone, or any other cheese that melts well. A combination of cheeses is also a great idea for added flavor.

How do I keep my grilled cheese from burning?

Make sure to cook the sandwich on medium heat to ensure the cheese melts without the bread burning. Keep an eye on the sandwich and flip it when the bottom is golden brown.

Can I add vegetables to my grilled cheese?

Yes! Sliced tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted peppers can be added to your grilled cheese sandwich for more texture and flavor.

Can I make grilled cheese sandwiches ahead of time?

While grilled cheese sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, you can make them ahead and store them in the fridge for a short time. Reheat them in a skillet for the best texture.

Can I use a panini press to make grilled cheese?

Yes, a panini press can be a great tool for making grilled cheese sandwiches. It will give your sandwich a nice even crisp, and you won’t need to flip it.

Conclusion

A grilled cheese sandwich is a simple yet delightful comfort food that never goes out of style. With its crispy golden bread and warm, melted cheese, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed anytime. Whether you keep it classic or mix it up with extras like bacon, tomatoes, or different cheeses, you can’t go wrong with this easy-to-make sandwich. Quick, satisfying, and versatile, grilled cheese is sure to remain a go-to meal for many years to come.