Ah, the grilled cheese—it’s more than just a sandwich; it’s a gooey, melty hug wrapped in crispy bread. Remember that time last winter when the world felt like a snow globe? This recipe will transport you right back there, with layers upon layers of cheesy goodness. Whether you’re a fan of cheddar, brie, or that mysterious cheese blend from the farmer’s market, this one’s for you.
Steps
- Start by placing two slices of medium cheddar cheese and one slice of American cheese on a piece of bread.
- Cover the cheese with a second slice of bread to form a sandwich.
- Use half a tablespoon of salted butter to butter the outside of each piece of bread, ensuring even coverage. Repeat this process for a second sandwich.
- Place both sandwiches in a large skillet without preheating it, a crucial step to ensure the cheese melts properly.
- Turn the stove to medium-low heat and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for 5-10 minutes until the bottom slice becomes golden-brown.
- Flip the sandwiches over and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the other side is also golden-brown, ensuring the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove the sandwiches from the skillet once both sides are golden-brown and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
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Ingredients
- Bread (such as hearty brioche, sourdough, homemade white sandwich bread, or homemade honey wheat bread)
- Salted butter, room temperature (1 tablespoon per sandwich)
- Medium cheddar cheese slices (2 slices per sandwich)
- American cheese slice (1 slice per sandwich)
- Sharp cheddar (white or yellow)
- Swiss cheese
- Sliced smoked gouda
- Colby Jack
- Monterey Jack
- Provolone
- Havarti
- Pepper Jack
Nutritional Values
Calories: 560kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 40g | Saturated Fat: 22g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.8g | Cholesterol: 108mg | Sodium: 1072mg | Potassium: 154mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1110IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 688mg | Iron: 2mg
FAQ
- What is the best type of cheese for making a grilled cheese sandwich?
- While personal preference plays a big role, a combination of medium cheddar and American cheese is often recommended for the perfect grilled cheese. Other great options include Swiss cheese, smoked gouda, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, provolone, Havarti, and Pepper Jack.
- Can I use unsalted butter for the grilled cheese?
- Yes, you can use unsalted butter, but it is generally recommended to use salted butter to enhance the flavor of the sandwich with a salty, buttery exterior.
- Should I consider using mayonnaise instead of butter?
- Some people opt for mayonnaise instead of butter on the outside of their bread. While this is a viable alternative, many find that butter offers a more delicious flavor.
- What are two key tips for making the best grilled cheese?
- First, cook your grilled cheese slowly over medium-low heat and keep it covered to ensure the cheese melts perfectly. Second, make sure to generously butter the outsides of the bread to achieve a golden-brown crust.
- How should I store and reheat leftover grilled cheese?
- Allow the grilled cheese to cool to room temperature and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a nonstick frying pan over medium heat to restore the crispiness, though microwaving is an option if you’re okay with losing some of that crisp texture.
Tips
- Use hearty bread: Opt for a sturdy bread like brioche or sourdough that can handle the butter and grilling process without falling apart.
- Butter generously: Make sure to butter the outside of each slice thoroughly with room-temperature salted butter to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Cook low and slow: Start with a cold skillet and cook the sandwich on medium-low heat, covered, to ensure the cheese melts perfectly without burning the bread.
- Experiment with cheese: While a mix of medium cheddar and American cheese is recommended, feel free to try other options like Swiss, smoked gouda, or provolone for a unique twist.
Equipment
- Large Skillet – A good quality skillet is essential for evenly cooking the sandwiches.
- Skillet Lid – To cover the skillet while cooking, ensuring the cheese melts properly.
- Nonstick Frying Pan – For reheating leftovers while maintaining the crispiness of the bread.
