When it comes to the perfect grilled cheese sandwich, there’s only one rule you really need to know for how to make grilled cheese:
When you take your time and toast your grilled cheese sandwiches over medium-low heat instead of hurrying them along, the cheese has plenty of time to melt thoroughly and the bread attains that gloriously, perfectly golden brown crispiness you dream of when you’re thinking of the perfect grilled cheese sandwich.
A few other things go into making the perfect grilled cheese, too. So how do you whip one of these bad boys up to perfection? Here’s how to make grilled cheese.
Heat skillet – place a skillet over low to medium/low heat. A griddle should be at 275˚F. Immediately add 2 slices of bread with the butter-side-down. Add cheese – stack cheeses on one of the pieces of bread, cover with the other piece of toast and flip the sandwich over.
Get Creative: If you feel like upping the ante, add your favorite meats, veggies or spreads. Remember, the more fillings you add, the crustier the bread needs to be so it doesn’t get soggy. We suggest using lightly pre-toasted or day-old bread for heartier sandwiches.
Shred Your Cheese: Do not, we repeat, do NOT use sliced cheese for grilled cheese. First, it is best to bring your cheese up to room temperature before cooking your sandwich. Then, shredding the cheese will help ensure that it melts faster and more evenly. Keep in mind, certain cheeses melt easier than others. Mild, creamy cheeses like Havarti, Gouda, and a young cheddar are prime candidates for melty perfection. Or, consider a flavored variety like Dill Havarti for an extra flavor kick.
Use Good Bread: The perfect grilled cheese starts with the bread. Don’t skimp on this part. Find a fresh-baked loaf from your local bakery or grocery store. And if you’re really adventurous, rosemary or garlic herb varieties add a pop of flavor.
Grill on Medium Heat: When it comes to cooking, we want enough heat to toast the bread without burning it while fully melting the cheese all the way to the center. A skillet preheated to medium or medium-low is optimal (adjust yours accordingly). Start by placing one slice of buttered bread face down in the pan, top with shredded cheese. Add the second slice buttered side up. Cook 2-4 minutes per side until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Don’t Over Butter: Some may say the more butter, the better, but there is such a thing as over-buttering. To avoid a greasy sandwich, we suggest about ½ tablespoon per slice of bread. Start by softening the butter for an even spread. Then, slather on the outsides of the bread to achieve that perfectly crisp, golden-brown crust.
Butter the bread
Generously slather one side of each piece of bread with your room-temperature butter. The buttered sides will be on the outside of the sandwich, so if your bread is a crazy shape like mine was and you want the pieces of bread to match up when the sandwich is closed, plan accordingly.
How To Make: Easy Grilled Cheese Sandwich | in a pan
FAQ
What is the best temperature to cook grilled cheese?
Do you cook grilled cheese on high?
What is the best setting for grilled cheese?
What temperature do you cook grilled cheese on a flat top?
How do you make a grilled cheese sandwich?
Unsalted butter, room temperature 1. Heat a griddle or large cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat. Place two slices of bread on a clean work surface, and cover each with a layer of cheese; top with remaining bread slices, pressing gently to adhere. Generously butter both sides of each sandwich, spreading it all the way to the edges.
How do you reheat a grilled cheese sandwich?
Grill the other side, then flip the sandwich back onto the first side to reheat. Grilling both sides at once, whether in a sandwich press or using a second heated skillet to press the sandwich as it cooks, is efficient but yields a much denser texture. The key to making a good grilled cheese sandwich lies in the heat of the cooking surface.
How do I choose the right grilled cheese?
Here are our tips for getting this classic comfort food just right. A grilled cheese presents its elements bare, without the safety net of side dishes or elaborate presentation. It’s a showcase for the cheese; select one that melts evenly, such as cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey Jack. That said, almost any cheese will do.
Can you use sliced cheese for grilled cheese?
Shred Your Cheese: Do not, we repeat, do NOT use sliced cheese for grilled cheese. First, it is best to bring your cheese up to room temperature before cooking your sandwich. Then, shredding the cheese will help ensure that it melts faster and more evenly. Keep in mind, certain cheeses melt easier than others.