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This ultimate grilled cheese sandwich transforms ordinary into extraordinary with carefully selected ingredients and techniques that elevate this classic comfort food. The combination of premium cheeses melted between perfectly buttered sourdough creates a sandwich that's simultaneously crispy, gooey, and packed with complex flavors.
I developed this recipe during a particularly cold winter when my family needed something special yet simple. What began as a weeknight solution has become our most requested weekend lunch, especially when paired with homemade tomato soup.
Ingredients
- Sourdough bread: Provides the perfect sturdy structure while offering a subtle tang that complements the rich cheeses
- Unsalted butter: Creates that golden crispy exterior we all crave in a perfect grilled cheese
- Mayonnaise: Might seem unusual but it spreads more easily than butter and creates an incredible crust
- Aged cheddar cheese: Delivers that classic sharp flavor and excellent meltability
- Gruyère cheese: Adds a nutty complexity and creates those irresistible cheese pulls
- Blue cheese (optional): Highly recommended for those who appreciate a bold flavor contrast
- Garlic powder: Infuses the cheese mixture with aromatic depth without overwhelming
- Onion powder: Provides subtle savory notes that enhance the cheese flavors
- Fresh thyme leaves: Add a fragrant herbaceous element that elevates this sandwich beyond basic
- Smoked paprika: Contributes a gentle smokiness that makes people wonder what your secret ingredient is
- Fresh arugula (optional): Adds a peppery freshness that cuts through the richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Bread:
- Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice. The butter needs to be room temperature to spread easily without tearing the bread. Then apply a thin layer of mayonnaise on the opposite sides. This creates a dual approach to achieving golden perfection.
- Mix the Cheese Blend:
- Combine all three cheeses with the seasonings in a mixing bowl. This thorough integration ensures every bite has balanced flavor. The cheese mixture should look uniform with spices evenly distributed throughout. Take time to break up any clumps of blue cheese if using.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Place two bread slices mayo side up on your work surface. Heap a generous portion of the cheese mixture onto each slice. Press it down slightly so it stays in place. Top with the remaining bread slices mayo side down to create two complete sandwiches.
- Heat the Pan:
- Preheat your pan over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Proper preheating is crucial for that perfect crisp exterior. To test if the pan is ready, flick a tiny drop of water on the surface. It should sizzle and evaporate quickly.
- Grill the First Side:
- Place assembled sandwiches in the heated pan with the buttered side down. Press gently with a spatula to ensure good contact with the hot surface. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, checking frequently by lifting an edge to monitor browning.
- Flip and Finish:
- Carefully flip each sandwich using a wide spatula to support the entire sandwich. Add a small amount of butter to the pan if it looks dry. Cook the second side for another 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the finished sandwiches and let them rest for exactly one minute. This brief resting period allows the melted cheese to set slightly for neater slicing. Cut diagonally and serve immediately with optional arugula garnish.
Pin
Blue cheese became my surprise favorite addition after a friend suggested it during a casual dinner party. The first time I included it, my husband declared it was the best grilled cheese he had ever tasted and now requests it specifically this way.
Perfect Pairings
Serve your grilled cheese sandwich alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food combination. The acidity of the tomato perfectly balances the richness of the cheese, creating a harmonious meal that satisfies on every level. For a lighter option, a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
Bread Selection Matters
The bread you choose forms the foundation of your grilled cheese experience. While sourdough is my personal favorite for its sturdy structure and complex flavor, other excellent options include brioche for sweetness, rustic country bread for heartiness, or even rye for a distinctive flavor profile. Whatever you choose, make sure the slices are cut to medium thickness. Too thin and they will become soggy, too thick and the cheese won't properly melt before the exterior burns.
Cheese Combinations
This recipe features a carefully selected trio of cheeses, but you can create your own signature blend based on what you have available. The key is balancing a good melting cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack with a flavorful cheese like sharp cheddar, gouda, or fontina. For best results, always shred your cheese rather than using slices as it melts more evenly and incorporates better with the seasonings.
Beyond Basic Additions
Transform your grilled cheese into a more substantial meal by adding thinly sliced apples for sweetness, crispy bacon for smokiness, caramelized onions for depth, or sliced tomatoes for juicy freshness. Just be careful not to overstuff your sandwich or the fillings may slide out during cooking and the bread may not properly crisp up. Layer any additions between the cheese to help everything stay in place.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What types of bread work best?
Sourdough is ideal for its sturdiness and flavor, but other rustic breads like ciabatta or whole grain also work great.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Gruyère provide a great base, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, provolone, or a smoky gouda.
- → How do I achieve the perfect crispy crust?
Spread butter evenly on the bread and ensure the pan is properly preheated before grilling to achieve a golden, crispy texture.
- → What are some flavorful add-ins?
Consider sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the flavors of your sandwich.
- → Are there any pairing suggestions?
Pair your grilled cheese with tomato soup, a light salad, or even a tangy pickle to balance the richness of the sandwich.