Description
A delicious twist on classic grilled cheese, this Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese features a crispy Parmesan garlic butter crust enveloping melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Perfectly golden and bursting with savory flavors, it’s a comforting sandwich ready in just 13 minutes.
Ingredients
Bread & Butter Mixture
- 2 slices sturdy sandwich bread (regular or gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon softened butter
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh parsley (or ½ teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 tablespoon finely grated Parmesan cheese (vegetarian, rennet-free if necessary)
- Pinch of salt (only if using unsalted butter)
Cheese Filling
- ¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
- Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare garlic butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, garlic powder, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, and optional salt until well mixed.
- Butter the bread: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture on one side of each slice of bread, ensuring the butter reaches all the edges for maximum flavor and crispiness.
- Assemble sandwich and start cooking: Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in a medium skillet heated to medium-low. Layer the shredded sharp cheddar, shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack, and a pinch of black pepper evenly over the bread.
- Add the top slice: Place the second slice of bread on top with the garlic-buttered side facing outward, pressing gently to form the sandwich.
- Cook first side: Let the sandwich cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the bottom is crisp and golden brown, adjusting heat as needed to avoid burning.
- Flip and finish cooking: Carefully flip the sandwich over. Reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until the other side is also golden and the cheese inside is fully melted.
- Rest and serve: Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it rest for 1 minute before slicing to allow the melted cheese to set slightly. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use sturdy sandwich bread to support the cheesy filling without becoming soggy.
- For vegetarian Parmesan, ensure the cheese is made without animal rennet.
- Adjust heat carefully to achieve a golden crust without burning.
- Substitute other melting cheeses if desired, such as provolone or fontina.
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free sandwich bread.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American